Each region of Tohoku has its own variety of premium beef. Both Shimofuri (marbled) and the excellent Akami (lean) beef cuts are produced from local cattle including the nationally famous Yonezawa breed from Yamagata and the flavoursome Tankaku breed from Iwate. Wagyu cattle are raised with much care on the region’s vast and lush grasslands and are fed a nutritious diet including fine rice, wheat, soya beans and sweet corn. 

Be sure to sample this exceptional quality Wagyu beef on your visit to Tohoku, some of which is rarely seen in the market!

Yonezawa beef from Yamagata

The nationally renowned Yonezawa beef is a breed of cattle raised in the Yonezawa basin. Large temperature differences between the hot and humid summers and cold, harsh winters produce fit cattle with perfectly marbled beef. The cuts and slices of Yonezawa beef feature a melt-in-the-mouth texture and a subtly sweet flavour. Many restaurants in the city of Yonezawa offer unforgettable Yonezawa beef experiences with menu options including steak, Sukiyaki and Shabu-Shabu along with reasonably priced options. 

Maesawa beef from Iwate

The famous Maesawa beef is produced from local cattle which are fed with rice straw grown in the Maesawa region of Oshu city, one of the nation’s finest rice producing areas. Tender Shimofuri (marbled) cuts have a subtly sweet flavour and lightly melt in the mouth. Maesawa beef is available mainly in the south of Iwate.

Murakami beef from Niigata

Murakami beef is a breed of cattle which is raised over two years on grass hay and ears of the popular local Koshihikari rice. Cuts of Murakami beef have a high degree of marbling and feature a sweet flavour and a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Visitors can enjoy Murakami beef at restaurants and traditional inns in Murakami city and locations across Niigata prefecture.

Iwate Tankaku beef

Iwate is the largest producer of Tankaku beef in Japan. Iwate Tankaku beef consists of nutritious, flavoursome Akami (lean) beef cuts and features a chewy but succulently tender texture. It is available in restaurants, hotels and traditional inns all around Iwate.