Although Takayama is an inland city, marine products from the Japan Sea and the Pacific are brought in every day. During the Edo Period (1603-1868), yellow tails caught in the Toyama Bay would be brought to Takayama by oxen along the Etchu Trail(now more popularly known as the Hida Trail). Due to the long time required to travel the distance, they were rubbed with salt before the journey. From Takayama, salted yellowtail then made their way to various cities in the central mountainous Shinshu District. It was considered to be a particular delicacy for New Year’s or other auspicious events. Even today, a special Salted Yellowtail Market is held on December 24th at the Takayama Wholesale Market in preparation for the upcoming New Year festivities.