Takayama Street Food Guide – 7 Must-Try Local Delicacies - Japan Travel Sights

Hida Takayama, located in northern Gifu Prefecture, is a historic town known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets and seasonal natural beauty.

Often referred to as “Little Kyoto”, Takayama is not only famous for its charming townscape but also for its rich food culture. From the renowned Hida Beef to traditional mitarashi dango (soy-glazed rice dumplings), the area offers an unforgettable street food experience.

This guide introduces 7 must-try street foods in Takayama, perfect for a delicious and memorable stroll through the old town.

1. Hida Gyu-man Honpo – Original Hida Beef Buns

Hida Gyu-man Honpo is known as the birthplace of Hida Beef buns (Hida Gyu-man).

🥟 Why try it?

• A fluffy, steaming hot bun filled with juicy, umami-rich Hida Beef.
• The cheese-filled version is also popular for a richer, creamier taste.

📍 Location: 53 Kamisannomachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🚶 Access: 15-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

2. Fujimiya – Traditional Mitarashi Dango

For an authentic taste of Takayama’s classic mitarashi dango, head to Fujimiya, a long-established dango shop near Kajibashi Bridge.

🍡 What makes it special?

• Handmade rice dumplings grilled over charcoal for a smoky aroma.
• Glazed twice with a special soy sauce blend, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.

📍 Location: 3-1 Honmachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Winter: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
🚶 Access: 10-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

3. Konomi – Hida Beef Takoyaki-Style Bites

For a unique Takayama street food experience, try Hida Gyu Otamayaki (Hida Beef Ball Pancakes) at Konomi.

🍘 What makes it special?

• A giant, takoyaki-style pancake ball stuffed with Hida Beef, shrimp, quail egg, and bean sprouts.
• Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and served with a tangy ponzu sauce.

📍 Location: 2-22 Honmachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🚶 Access: 8-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

4. Jugemu – Hida Beef Croquettes & Skewers

If you love crispy, deep-fried snacks, Jugemu offers some of the best Hida Beef croquettes in Takayama.

🥩 Must-try items:

• Hida Beef Croquette – A crunchy, golden-brown croquette filled with creamy mashed potatoes and premium Hida Beef.
• Hida Beef Skewers – Grilled over charcoal for a smoky, juicy, and tender bite.

📍 Location: 72 Kamisannomachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🚶 Access: 10-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

5. Kotteushi – Hida Beef Nigiri Sushi

For an authentic Hida Beef sushi experience, head to Kotteushi, a famous grab-and-go sushi shop in Takayama’s old town.

🍣 What makes it special?

• Uses A5-grade Hida Beef, known for its melting tenderness and sweet fat.
• Served on a handmade rice cracker, making it easy to eat while walking.

📍 Location: 82 Kamisannomachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🚶 Access: 11-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

6. Harada Sake Brewery – Japanese Sake Ice Cream

If you love Japanese sake, don’t miss the unique sake-infused soft serve ice cream at Harada Sake Brewery.

🍦 Why try it?

• Made with Dassai Daiginjo sake, offering a smooth texture with a light sake aroma.
• Perfectly balances rich dairy flavor and crisp sake notes.

📍 Location: 10 Kamisannomachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (April–November), 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (December–March)
🚶 Access: 10-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

7. Takayama Rusk – Mitarashi-Flavored Crispy Snack

For a unique and portable souvenir, visit Takayama Rusk to try their Mitarashi-Flavored Rusk.

🥨 What makes it special?

• A crunchy rusk infused with sweet and savory soy sauce glaze, inspired by Takayama’s famous mitarashi dango.
• Available in various local flavors, including Takayama Ramen Rusk and Gohei Mochi Rusk.

📍 Location: 1 Shimosannomachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Weekends)
🚶 Access: 15-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

Final Thoughts – A Street Food Paradise in Takayama

Hida Takayama offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious local delicacies.

🍢 Why visit Takayama for street food?
✅ Authentic flavors: Traditional recipes passed down for generations.
✅ Diverse options: From Hida Beef to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone.
✅ Scenic backdrop: Enjoy your food while strolling through Takayama’s stunning Edo-period streets.

When visiting Takayama, make sure to taste your way through the old town with these must-try street foods!