Vegetarian food in Japan guide
Eating vegetarian in Japan is much easier than it used to be, but menus can still hide fish-based ingredients in broths and sauces. A little strategy goes a long way.
Best vegetarian-friendly options
Look for tofu dishes, vegetable tempura, curry rice, plain rice sets, soba and dedicated vegan cafes. Shojin ryori is the classic Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.
Watch out for dashi
Many soups, sauces and side dishes use fish stock even when they look vegetarian. Ask clearly if you need to avoid it.
Use the right neighborhoods
Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka now have a growing number of vegan and vegetarian spots, especially near tourist centers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Japan vegetarian friendly?
More than before, especially in big cities, but hidden fish stock is still common.
What is shojin ryori?
It is traditional Japanese Buddhist vegetarian cuisine built around seasonal vegetables, tofu and careful preparation.
