Sakaguchiya
Discover Sakaguchiya, a rustic eatery in Takayama's old town, famed for its unique Hida beef sushi served on a cracker and traditional Japanese ambian...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Sakaguchiya
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sakaguchiya, a rustic eatery in Takayama's old town, famed for its unique Hida beef sushi served on a cracker and traditional Japanese ambiance.
Visit Early for Lunch
Last orders are around 2-2:30 PM; the restaurant does not serve dinner.
Be Prepared for Queues
Write your name on the board and wait; expect a 5-20 minute wait during busy times.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Japanese
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+81 577-32-0244
Address
90 Kamisannomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0846, Japan
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hida Beef Sushi on a Cracker
Experience Hida beef sushi served uniquely on a crispy rice cracker, a delicious and eco-friendly indulgence.
Authentic Traditional Atmosphere
Step into a rustic, wood-lined eatery filled with traditional Japanese decor, masks, and old paraphernalia.
Mouthwatering Hida Beef
Savor the unparalleled tenderness and buttery flavor of prime Hida beef, cooked to perfection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit Early for Lunch
Last orders are around 2-2:30 PM; the restaurant does not serve dinner.
Be Prepared for Queues
Write your name on the board and wait; expect a 5-20 minute wait during busy times.
Reasonable Prices
Enjoy some of the best beef in Japan at reasonable prices, along with fresh, well-cooked dishes.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit Early for Lunch
Last orders are around 2-2:30 PM; the restaurant does not serve dinner.
Be Prepared for Queues
Write your name on the board and wait; expect a 5-20 minute wait during busy times.
Reasonable Prices
Enjoy some of the best beef in Japan at reasonable prices, along with fresh, well-cooked dishes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about Sakaguchiya's authentic atmosphere and the exquisite Hida beef, particularly the unique beef sushi served on a cracker. While some found the beef sushi slightly chewier than expected or pricey, the overall consensus points to a memorable culinary experience with delicious food and a cozy, traditional setting. It's a must-visit for Hida beef aficionados.
"I had the Hida sushi at Sakaguchiya, and it was absolutely mouthwatering. It was my first time trying it, and the flavors were incredible. However, the price is on the higher side—$9 for just two pieces. While I can’t fully justify the cost since I’m not familiar with how expensive Hida beef typically is, the taste certainly didn’t disappoint. I also liked the unique touch of serving it on a cracker, which doubled as both a plate and a tasty part of the dish. Despite the price, it’s a memorable experience for sushi lovers!"
G A
"Best ramen in all of Takayama. Great traditional experience sitting at the tables without shoes in the booths. Food and service was fantastic and I would recommend popping in. There can sometimes be a queue so write your name on the board and wait your turn. 5-20 minute wait to get in."
Simon
"The one food item that the YouTube vloggers said was a must-try in Takayama was the Hida Beef Sushi. These self-absorbed, follower-chasing travelers would rave about the tenderness of the meat and then immediately tell me to press the Subscribe button. Alas, it did look like a tasty morsel on camera, and this was the place mentioned the most to get it.
Jamie W and I were strolling on Sanmachi Suji, the heart of Takayama's Old Town, when we came upon this spot. While the street was crowded, surprisingly the order window was not. That was likely because they were sold out of two of the three levels of Hida Beef Sushi - the ¥600 Lean version and the ¥1,000 Premium version. That left the ¥800 Medium-Fat version, so we naturally ordered it to share.
The long slices of tender-looking Hida beef were slightly seared, placed over sushi rice nigiri-style, and lacquered with a horseradish soy sauce. It was placed on a flat rice cracker with a tiny dab of wasabi on top. It was prepared medium-rare, which was a plus, though the meat was slightly chewier than expected. Still, it was gone in a matter of minutes, and we didn't spend much time perusing the rest of their restaurant menu.
FOOD - 4 stars...tender but slightly chewy
AMBIANCE - 3 stars...not much atmosphere though they had open seating inside
SERVICE - 4 stars...pretty automatic though the process was meticulous
TOTAL - 4 stars...Hida Beef Sushi...check!"
Ed Uyeshima
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The signature dish is the Hida beef sushi, uniquely served on a crispy rice cracker, offering a delicious and memorable experience.
No, Sakaguchiya is a lunch-only establishment. Last orders are typically around 2-2:30 PM.
The restaurant boasts a traditional Japanese setting with wooden ceilings, log pillars, and old paraphernalia, creating an authentic and cozy vibe.
While some reviewers find the Hida beef sushi to be on the higher side, many consider it reasonably priced for the quality and unique experience.
If there's a queue, write your name on the waiting board and be prepared for a wait of 5-20 minutes to be seated.
Besides Hida beef sushi, reviewers also praise the ramen and other Hida beef preparations.
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Food Scoops: Best Restaurants & Cafes To Check Out In Takayama, Japan
A popular and traditional looking restaurant along the historic district of Sanmachi Suji in Takayama, I had a meal at Sakaguchiya the moment I arrived in Takayama since this restaurant is located close to Hotel Wood Takayama where I was staying at. The menu is also quite extensive as you get your fill of Hida beef sushi, Hida beef donburi and Hida beef steak, which makes it quite an ideal spot to satisfy your Hida beef cravings all at one go. Prices are fairly reasonable too.
The Ultimate Guide To Best Restaurants In Takayama 2025 !
check out this little sushi shop called Sakaguchiya if you’re ever in Takayama. It’s this tiny spot that serves up the best sushi in town with Hida beef on top – they were actually the first place to do Hida beef sushi!. You can either sit down inside or just order through the little window on the side.
Takayama Food Guide: 10 Must-Try Foods in Takayama
Sakaguchiya (坂口屋) is a small shop that served the best Hida beef sushi in Takayama. It is also the first restaurant that served the sushi with Hida beef on top. You can choose to dine in or order through a small window at the side of the shop.
Hida-Takayama - Wikitravel
Traditional japanese restaurant located on the main sannomachi street. The menu has local soba and miso dishes. They have excellent hōba miso steak.
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