If you love beef, there are few better places on the planet to eat it than in Japan.‘Wagyu’ is typically associated with Kobe beef outside of Japan, but the word literally just means ‘Japanese beef.’ Once you arrive in Japan, you’ll realise there’s much more than Kobe beef in the world of wagyu – that’s just one of many different varieties and grades of domestic beef here!
Sukiyaki in Kyoto: norikko / Shutterstock.com
Wagyu is best eaten in ways that highlight the quality and taste of the beef. Sukiyaki is a particularly great way to enjoy wagyu. Sukiyaki is best described as simmered beef and vegetables in a sweet-savoury soy sauce.
Here is a sukiyaki restaurant we like in Kyoto:
- Mishima-tei (Downtown Kyoto; mid-range to expensive)
For some good sukiyaki, try this reliable old specialist in the Teramachi Shopping Arcade.
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Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
