Hida Beef (Gifu): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

Timing shifts with the weather and conditions in each region.

Official registration details (MAFF)

The registered description as published by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

Characteristics

Renowned in marbling and other aspects of quality, Hidagyu won the top award in the carcass category of the National Competitive Exhibition of Wagyu for two years in a row. Grade 4 and 5 Hidagyu beef is traded at prices approx. 20% higher than average wagyu steer meat prices at the Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market in Tokyo, and grade 3 Hidagyu at prices nearly 10% higher.

Link with the production area

Following meat quality improvement carried out by individual producers since the early 20th century, and collectively since the 1940s, today's community-wide efforts, such as improving cattle fattening techniques, have resulted in the establishment of production systems for ensuring long-term, consistent excellence in the quality of Hidagyu beef cattle.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s126.html)

Where to buy

As a rule, only products that meet the registered standard may use a GI name (with exceptions such as prior use). Check for the GI mark and the place of origin to tell it apart from ordinary products with similar names.

Find on furusato nozei (opens in a new tab)Find online (opens in a new tab)

These links go to Japanese-language shops; check whether they ship overseas.

Some shop links on this page are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

It is offered as a furusato nozei (hometown tax donation) gift by many municipalities, including Takayama City and Yoro Town.

FAQ

Wagyu beef raised in Gifu Prefecture. Known for its high quality, including excellent marbling, it won the top carcass award at two consecutive national Wagyu competitions. Its production system was built through decades of breed improvement across the region.

Hida Beef is produced in Gifu Prefecture.

Hida Beef is shipped all year round.

Look for it via furusato nozei (hometown tax donation) and online shops. Check the GI mark and the place of origin before you buy.

Hida Beef was registered as a Geographical Indication on January 31, 2023 (Registration No. 126). The registered producer group is The Hida Beef Brand Promotion Council.