Japan, Takayama - Dining on Wasakana

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The city of Takayama is also known as Hida-Takayama and is located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture in Japan.

A popular dish in Takayama is Wasakana or river fish. There are many species of river fishes in Takayama but the ones that are regularly served as part of the local cuisines are Ayu (Plecoglossus altivelis,) a.k.a sweetfish and Iwana (Salvelinus leucomaenis), a species of river trout. 

Wasakana (River Fish). This fish was pickled and then grilled. I am not sure of the species of this fish which was caught in the river behind the Ryokan where I resided during my stay in the mountains. Takayama, Gifu, Japan (2014)

The fishes are usually marinated with sea salt and grilled. This method of cooking the river fishes is most popularly shown in pictures or on travel documentaries.

During my visit to Takayama in October 2014, I finally got to savor the delicious tastes of the Wasakana prepared in authentic local styles by the locals. Besides the usual sea salt marinated and grilled style, I also got to taste the Wasakana prepared in other ways. As someone who prefers fish meals to red meat, I truly enjoyed all my meals during my stay in the mountains of Takayama.

Wasakana or river fish wrapped in leaves and grilled over an open fire, Takayama, Gifu, Japan (2014)

Wasakana or river fish wrapped in leaves and grilled over an open fire, Takayama, Gifu, Japan (2014)

Ayu (a.k.a sweetfish), Takayama, Gifu, Japan (2014)

Ayu (a.k.a sweetfish) marinated with sea salt and grilled over an open fire, Takayama, Gifu, Japan (2014)

For visitors to Hida-Takayama who will not be traveling to the mountains, you can still enjoy the delightful taste of Wasakana. The morning Miyagawa market in the city's old town area along the Miyagawa River operates daily between 7am to noon time. At this market, besides the local crafts and fresh produce, snacks and food are also widely available at the many stalls selling food and beverages. Treat yourself to a grilled Ayu fish as you shop the morning market.

Grilled Ayu fishes sold individually in sticks at the morning Miyagawa Market, Hida-Takyama, Gifu, Japan (2014)

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