Best Vegetarian Food in Japan: 20 Must-Try Dishes & Where to Eat Them
If you’re a vegetarian or vegan and looking for Vegetarian Food in Japan, you’ve probably heard that Japan isn’t the easiest place for you. Meat and fish are present in most dishes, even in things that look vegan.
Vegan travel in Japan can be an amazing experience if you know where to go and what to order.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to vegan Japanese cuisine, vegan-approved places, and smart tips that will help you eat comfortably and enjoy every moment of your trip.
Is Vegetarian Food Available in Japan?
Yes, vegetarian food in Japan is available, but it’s not always as easy as you might imagine. However, discovering them is part of the fun of the trip.
In major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, vegetarian and vegan options are starting to increase significantly. There are restaurants dedicated entirely to vegetarianism and others that offer sub-menus free of meat and animal products. Some stores and cafes have even begun to display “Vegan” and “Vegetarian Friendly” labels to help visitors make quick and safe decisions.
Outside of cities, the challenge is a little more difficult, but not impossible. Many traditional inns (ryokan) can prepare delicious vegan meals if you let them know in advance. Even small convenience stores like Konbini have simple options like rice balls (onigiri) with vegan fillings, fresh salads, or edamame beans.
What makes the experience really special is that you’ll learn to be more aware, more curious, and more open to new flavors you’ve never tasted before. You’ll discover traditional cuisines like shojin, the Vegetarian Food of Zen monks, and you’ll understand how Japan expresses respect through food.
Japan may not be a “vegan paradise,” but it is certainly a magical destination for anyone seeking a unique, delicious experience.
What is a famous Japanese vegetarian food?
If you’re a vegetarian and wondering, “Will I find food that works for me in Japan?” Here are some of the most popular Japanese vegan foods that are traditional cuisines that vegetarians can enjoy in Japan:
1- Vegetable tempura
Vegetable tempura is sliced vegetables (such as potatoes, eggplant, peppers, and carrots) wrapped in thin dough, then fried in vegetable oil until crispy and golden.
Tempura has a light and crispy taste and has become a favorite dish in Japanese cuisine. If you like light and crispy foods, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to try them!
2- Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a type of Japanese pancake, but with a big difference in ingredients.
The main ingredients are vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and scallions, with some other ingredients to taste. It is cooked on a hot griddle, usually served with a savory sauce such as the special okonomiyaki sauce, and sometimes topped with Japanese mayonnaise and dried fish flakes (kashibo).
It is a very filling and flavorful dish, and the Japanese are very fond of it in the winter.
3- Vegetarian sushi
Vegetarian sushi is here to stay and is simply slices of cucumber, avocado, or Japanese radish (daikon) wrapped in light sushi rice with nori leaves (seaweed).
The taste is refreshing, light, and perfect for anyone who is vegetarian or vegan.
Tofu is a plant-based protein made by grinding and soaking soybeans, then boiling them in water. Add lemon juice to begin to thicken, then strain and allow to harden. It is cut into cubes and can be served fried or cooked in soups.
4- Vegetarian ramen
Vegetarian ramen is a Japanese noodle dish served with chopped fresh vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and spinach, and topped with a rich vegetable broth. Sometimes, tofu is added to increase the nutritional value. Garnish with green onions or corn for added flavor.
If you love delicious and nutritious flavors, try vegan ramen because it strikes the perfect balance between taste and convenience.
5- Onigiri
Onigiri consists of rice in the form of balls or triangles stuffed with vegetables, fish or Japanese pickles and wrapped in nori paper, which is marine algae If you want to eat a snack, onigiri is the perfect choice for you.
6- Vegetable Udon
Vegetable Udon is a Japanese noodle soup with fresh vegetables cooked in a warm broth. One of the best vegetarian Food In Japan is light and nutritious, perfect as a snack for any time of the day.
7- Japanese Curry
Japanese curry is a warming dish with a thick vegetable sauce full of flavor. It contains vegetables such as potatoes and carrots and is one of the best vegetarian Food in Japan, served with rice, and is a nutritious and refreshing dish.
8- Miso Soup
Miso soup is one of Japan’s staple balanced dishes. It is a light broth with tofu and voodoo algae, one of the simplest Vegetarian Food in Japan.
9- Mochi
Mochi is a sticky dessert made from glutinous rice. It is stuffed with various types of fillings, such as fruits. It is light and sweet, making it a perfect choice for enjoying authentic vegetarian food in Japan.
10- Mak-guksu
Mak-guksu is a type of Korean cold noodle served with vegetables and toppings such as kimchi. It has a refreshing and spicy taste at the same time. It is very suitable for those who like spicy food, and is one of the most popular vegetarian Food in Japan.
11- Common Vegetable-Based Sides & Salads
Vegetable-based sides and salads in Japanese cuisine are simple and refreshing. They are often made with seasonal vegetables and served with light vegetable sauces such as soy sauce or smoky sauce. It ranks as one of the most refreshing dishes in vegetarian food in Japan
12- Green Burgers
Green burgers in Japan are a convenient vegetarian option for many in Japan served with fresh ingredients such as avocado and fresh vegetables, adding a nutritious and healthy flavor to the meal.
13- Inarizushi
Inarizushi is a type of sushi where rice is stuffed inside a pocket of fried tofu. It has a sweet and savory taste and is perfect as a snack or as a complement to meals.
It is a type of sushi that consists of fried tofu stuffed with rice that tastes delicious if you prefer to eat a light snack, this is a good option for you.
14- Japanese Soba Noodles
Japanese Soba Noodles are a type of noodle made from buckwheat flour. They can be prepared cold with a dipping sauce or warm in a soup. The taste is light and nutritious.
15- Noodles
Japanese Noodles vary widely from heavy udon noodles to thin soba-like noodles. They always taste simple, unlike most Japanese cuisine.
16- A Shōjin Ryōri Meal
A Shōjin Ryōri meal is Buddhist Vegetarian Food in Japan that reflects simplicity and spirituality. Its dishes are light and healthy, prepared with natural tools and ingredients, and give a sense of inner peace.
17- Cold Tofu in Japan
Served with soy sauce and ginger, Cold Tofu in Japan is an ideal dish if the weather is hot because its flavor is soft and refreshing, making it a simple yet nutritious option
18- Daikon Salad
Daikon Salad is a light salad made with shredded Japanese radish. Its flavor is refreshing and tender, and sometimes a light dressing is added to enhance the taste of the salad in Vegetarian Food in Japan.
19- Nasu Dengaku
Nasu Dengaku is a dish of grilled eggplant topped with a sweet miso sauce and served hot. It has a rich taste that combines smoky and sweet flavors, and is a delicacy in Vegetarian Food in Japan.
20- Oyaki
Oyaki is a type of Japanese pastry filled with vegetables or red beans. Served baked or fried, it has a warm and cozy taste and is one of the most delicious Vegetarian Food in Japan.
Vegetarian Restaurants in Japan
Which Restaurant Should You Go to If You Are a Vegetarian in Japan? Since you are traveling to Japan and having a vegetarian meal, choosing an appropriate restaurant may play a significant role in the quality of your food. In this Vegetarian Food in Japan Guide, we will discuss the types of restaurants you can look for as well as mention some popular ones that welcome vegetarians.
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Tokyo: Your Ultimate Guide
T’s TanTan (Tokyo Station): Famous for its vegan ramen with creamy sesame broth.
Ain Soph. Journey (Shinjuku): Great location with fabulous vegan pancakes and creative Japanese-Western fusion cuisine.
Saido (Jiyugaoka): Featured among Asia’s best vegan restaurants, offering plant-based versions of popular Japanese dishes.
Brown Rice (Omotesando): Committed to organic, seasonal vegetables, a must-go for health buffs.
Nagi Shokudo (Shibuya): Small, cozy venue serving Japanese-style home cooking, all vegan.
Veganic To Go (Roppongi): Vegan burgers and filling bento boxes are the specialty here.
Sasaya Café (Sumida): A riverside café offering gluten-free and vegan dishes.
Komaki Shokudo (Akihabara): Famous for Shojin Ryori (Buddhist temple food), all vegan and satisfying.
if you want to explore Tokyo’s best vegetarian restaurants without the stress of planning? Join our Shibuya Family Friendly Food Tour with a Local Expert Guide, where you’ll enjoy plant-based options perfect for all ages.
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Kyoto: A Green Foodie’s Dream
Shigetsu (Arashiyama): Inside Tenryu-ji Temple, this restaurant offers a genuine Shojin Ryori experience in stunning zen scenery.
Ain Soph. Journey (Kyoto Branch): Renowned for its fluffy vegan pancakes and hearty bowls.
Veg Out (Kawaramachi): Riverside café with full vegan menu and scenic views of the Kamogawa River.
Mumokuteki Café & Foods (Teramachi): Offers a varied selection of vegan courses using local ingredients.
Sanjo (Choice): Stylish restaurant offering gluten-free and vegan pasta, desserts, and so much more.
Hale of Nishiki Market’s: Hidden within the market itself, this tiny gem offers traditional vegan Japanese set meals.
Ryoan (Ginkaku-ji district): Another great spot for Shojin Ryori, ideal after a temple visit.
Discover Kyoto’s culinary soul through our Hidden Flavors of Kyoto Tour at Nishiki Market, a must for every vegetarian visitor!
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Osaka: Savor Plant-Based Delights
Paprika Shokudo Vegan (Namba): All-vegan Japanese restaurant with favorites like katsu curry and ramen.
Green Earth (Hommachi): Osaka’s oldest vegetarian café, offering Western-style and Japanese-style fare.
Mame to Mugi (Tennoji): A popular spot for creative vegan versions of Japanese classics like okonomiyaki.
Saido Osaka (Umeda): Osaka branch of the famous Tokyo restaurant, offering beautifully presented vegan Japanese dishes.
Aju (Kyobashi): A vegan casual restaurant famous for its tasty and affordable set meals.
Nana’s Green Tea (various locations): Not fully vegan, but offers plenty of plant-based matcha desserts and drinks.
Kuzuha Mall Veggie Café (Hirakata): A casual café for veggie bento and dessert.
Experience Osaka’s nighttime flavors with vegetarian-friendly bites on our Osaka After Dark: A Private Dinner Time Tour In Dotonbori & Namba. The perfect foodie adventure under the neon skies!
Does McDonald’s Japan Have Vegetarian Options?
If you’re a vegetarian visiting Japan and not familiar with fast food, McDonald’s might not be your choice. In contrast to some nations where McDonald’s has vegetarian or vegan burgers, McDonald’s Japan does not currently have specially marked vegetarian main dishes.
While foods like French fries might seem vegetarian, observe that in Japan, they are fried in oil that might contain beef derivatives and hence are unsuitable for strict vegetarians and vegans. Salads are available, but dressings will typically consist of animal products like egg or fish extracts.
McDonald’s Japan released Tofu Shinjo Nuggets in 2014, made with Only onions, soybeans, carrots, and fish mince. They were not veggie since they had fish in them and were a limited-season product.
For vegetarians searching for a fast food choice in Japan, there are more suitable options for them in restaurants like Mos Burger. Mos Burger Green Burger is a vegetable and grain-based vegetarian choice with a teriyaki sauce to go with it.
Short, there may not be much of a vegetarian selection available at McDonald’s Japan, yet other regional or international establishments may provide a more respectable meal. This Vegetarian Food in Japan guide should help you use whatever options you find appropriately.
How to Ask for Vegetarian Options in Japanese?
Perhaps the most useful thing that you can learn prior to traveling to Japan is how to communicate your dietary needs effectively. In this vegetarian restaurant in Japan, we will show you exactly how to order vegetarian meals and make sure that your dining experiences are satisfactory.
Key Phrases to Use when you ask for vegetarian food in Japan
私はベジタリアンです (Watashi wa bejitarian desu) I am a vegetarian.
肉、魚、鶏肉を食べません (Niku, sakana, toriniku o tabemasen) I don’t eat meat, fish, or chicken.
野菜だけの料理はありますか？(Yasai dake no ryōri wa arimasu ka?) Do you have dishes with only vegetables?
ダシなしの料理をお願いします (Dashi nashi no ryōri o onegaishimasu) Please prepare it without fish stock.
卵と乳製品は大丈夫です (Tamago to nyūseihin wa daijōbu desu) Eggs and dairy are okay. (Use this if you’re not vegan)
Points to Remember ( Tips for Ordering Vegetarian Food in Japan)
Even if a dish appears vegetarian, it may still contain fish broth (dashi), which is common in Japanese cuisine. It’s safest to ask exactly what you don’t eat to prevent surprises. Having these sentences printed out or saved on your phone can also be useful if you’re not comfortable speaking Japanese.
Downloadable Cards
Some veggie tourists make or download vegetarian request cards in Japanese that contain foods that they cannot have. This is a lifesaver in rural towns where English is not widely understood.
If you wish to enjoy a true and stress-free vegetarian dining experience in Japan, Washoku Club Culture and Food Tours is here to help. We offer carefully curated vegetarian-friendly food tours in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto so that your trip not only becomes enriching but also memorable.
