You’ve likely found your way here because you’re planning a trip to Japan and have heard that navigating the country as a vegan can be a bit challenging. While it’s true that Japan’s food culture is unique and often includes fish or meat ingredients, I’m here to show you that planning a vegan adventure in Japan is not only possible but also filled with delicious and exciting discoveries.
I’ll share all my tips and tricks to make your journey enjoyable and stress-free, from navigating Japan with ease to discovering some of my favourite plant-based dishes and restaurants.
Whether it’s your first trip to Japan or your 100th, a well-planned, vegan-friendly adventure awaits. So, let’s dive in and get ready for an unforgettable trip!
Before we start: It’s a long guide, but I tried to include everything to leave you feeling confident about your trip to Japan!
My Big Tip: Plan Food First, Activities Second!
I’ll be honest — my travel itineraries pretty much revolve around food. Eating my way through a country is my favorite kind of sightseeing, which is why I always recommend prioritising food when planning your itinerary. It might sound a bit funny, but as a vegan in Japan, spontaneous dining isn’t really an option — you have to plan ahead.
While Japanese monuments and landmarks will always be there, cafes and restaurants might not be open on the days you plan to visit. The key is to stay open-minded and flexible with your schedule so you can make the most of both the cuisine and your activities.
For example, if you’re planning to visit Nara and you’ve set your sights on dining at Vegan Cafe Ramuna – which is only open a few days a week- you can organise the rest of your itinerary around this schedule.
Tip: Don’t rely solely on Google for opening times. I always recommend double-checking the cafe’s Instagram page, as it’s usually the most up-to-date.
Come prepared!
If you’re not used to walking long distances, start training your body now! It’s not unusual to have a 20,000-step day when exploring the streets of Japan, so comfortable shoes are a MUST. I’ve been loving my Merrell Moab 2’s – I have both the shoe and boot version! They’re incredibly comfy, and the Gore-Tex material keeps my toes dry in all weather.
You’ll also likely be a little jet-lagged and in need of coffee. Take a look at this post, which shows you where to get your caffeine hit in Tokyo!
How to Navigate Around Japan
Stay Connected, No Matter Where You Are
When travelling through Japan, especially as a vegan, things don’t always go according to plan. Maybe the restaurant you were excited about turns out to be closed, or you stumble upon a vegan restaurant only to find they’ve sold out for the day.
In moments like these, a reliable WiFi or data plan can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute food spot, checking Google Maps for directions to your vegan cafe reservation, or simply needing to use the translation app to read the ingredients, staying connected is key.
That’s where Japan Wireless comes in. We’ve used them countless times during our trips, and they’ve never let us down. From ordering to setup, it’s been a seamless experience each time. Their service, partnered with Japan’s top network provider, ensures that you have internet access wherever you are—even in rural, off-the-beaten-path areas of Japan. So, whether you’re navigating Tokyo’s vegan hotspots or venturing into the countryside, Japan Wireless keeps you connected, making it easy to discover the best vegan food around
Check out Japan Wireless and make your trip smoother with reliable internet on the go!
Suica Card
Instead of getting individual train tickets, I highly recommend downloading the Suica card app onto your phone, letting you easily tap your way around Japan. Not only can you hop on and off trains, but it can also be used on buses, a selection of shops, vending machines and coin lockers, making it a must-have during your trip.
Navigating Japan’s Rail System with Confidence
Japan’s trains are fantastic, they’re clean, fast and always on time – you’ve heard it all before, and it’s pretty much all true. In my opinion, they’re the best way to travel around the country. Not only will you see passing villages and towns, but you’ll also get a unique glimpse into daily Japanese life.
Every station has some sort of English signage, but things get trickier as you venture into smaller stations outside the main cities. This is where your e-sim from Japan Wireless comes in handy.
Use Google Maps or JapanTransit to navigate without stress. Once you’re familiar with where you’re going, the Japanese system is easy to use. The only tricky part can be figuring out how to exit the station! Tokyo Station is massive, with many levels and exits. It’s also where one of the vegan ramen restaurants, T’s Tantan, is located. We’ve gotten lost many times here, but T’s always comes to the rescue!
There are also other options like the JR Pass (Unlimited rail travel in designated areas) or City Passes (Unlimited city travel on subways, trams, trains and buses for x amount of day/s), so take some time to explore these options and decide what’s best for your trip.
Taxis in Japan
If there’s ever a vegan restaurant tucked away in a less accessible part of the city, hopping into a Japanese taxi might just be your best option. However, in the major cities, the public transport system is so accessible and affordable that I’ve rarely needed to take a taxi.
Money & Card Payments
Japan is still a cash-heavy country, so make sure to bring some with you. Additionally, make sure your bank card doesn’t charge fees for withdrawals or in-store payments.
Chase and Starling Bank (UK) have been great for me, as they don’t charge foreign ATM withdrawal fees, and 7-Eleven is my go-to ATM. (Please check with your bank, as fees may vary in your home country. Some banks may charge you after a certain withdrawal amount.)
With the influx of tourists, many more shops are accepting contactless payments (though not necessarily Apple Pay), but keep in mind there are plenty of places that are cash only, like the ramen restaurant in Omiya, where you have to order via a vending machine using cash.
Save & Create Your Own List of Vegan Spots in Japan
Whenever you have a spare moment, take some time to scroll through social media, read up on vegan travel blogs, and check out what people are recommending in vegan travel groups. Make a running list of all the vegan-friendly restaurants, cafes, and convenience store finds you come across. It might feel like extra work now, but trust me — future you will be so grateful!
Personally, I love creating a dedicated Google Maps list just for vegan spots in Japan. Anytime I find a new place, I save it to my map, so I always have options nearby, no matter where I am.
Pro tip: You can also follow public vegan food maps made by other travelers and bloggers (see below)— your map might end up looking chaotic, but you’ll never go hungry.
Veganism in Japan
The concept of ‘vegetarian’ is relatively well-known, but ‘vegan’ is still fairly new and less widely understood (or known for that matter). While many people are familiar with diets that exclude meat, the idea of avoiding all animal products, including fish broth, eggs, and dairy, is something that’s only recently gained awareness.
Shojin Ryori
Shojin Ryori is a traditional Buddhist meal eaten by monks, made with plant-based and seasonal vegetables. In theory, it should be vegan, right? Well, not always. You’ll have to confirm that dashi (bonito stock) and consomme (made from ground meat) aren’t used, as these are staples in Japanese cooking.
Shojin Ryori, as well as other dishes you’ll encounter across Japan, may look vegan at first glance, especially if there are no visible animal products. Many people won’t make the correlation that animal products are used, especially in dishes that appear plant-based. The use of dashi is so ingrained in Japanese cooking that it’s often overlooked.
As a general rule, always assume there could be hidden animal ingredients in all food across Japan unless stated, or you visit a dedicated vegan restaurant.
Understanding Japanese Food Culture
A typical Japanese diet is known for being exceptionally healthy, with minimal processed foods and dishes prepared from fresh ingredients containing little refined sugar. My Japanese family will have a bowl of rice, miso soup, grilled fish or a meat dish, pickled vegetables and tofu- they’ll eat this for all three meals, each time with a slight variation.
In general, Japanese people attach great importance to the health benefits of food. Soy products are integral to the diet, appearing in various forms such as soy sauce, miso, natto, soy milk and soy yoghurt, among others. While these products are often marketed as healthier alternatives, not everything will be suitable for vegans.
There have been cases where companies released ‘healthy’ soy burgers that actually contained meat or a ‘plant-based’ soy dessert that included eggs. Unfortunately, this inconsistency is a common issue across Japan and is a massive frustration.
Japan loves any excuse to introduce new and exciting products, whether tied to the seasons or promoting a new trend. This constant evolution can be seen across cafes and restaurants, as well as supermarkets and convenience stores (konbini).
However, unless a product is explicitly certified as vegan, it’s difficult to be certain of its vegan status. Many people living in Japan adopt a “vegan enough” mindset, as verifying every ingredient often requires directly contacting the manufacturer—a challenging task for most.
Look out for the Vegan Certification
When shopping for snacks or groceries at Japanese supermarkets, keep an eye out for Japan’s official vegan certification mark. While it’s still not very common, more and more products are starting to carry this label.
This mark is important because it guarantees the product is fully vegan, unlike some items labeled “plant-based” in Japan, which can still contain animal-derived ingredients like fish broth or dairy. Spotting the vegan certification makes shopping a lot easier, so it’s worth familiarising yourself with the logo before your trip!
How to Choose Where to Visit in Japan
If you’re all about the food, the cities are where you’ll want to be. Not only do they offer an abundance of activities and opportunities for shopping, but they’re also rich in historical landmarks and home to some of the best vegan food options in the country.
If it’s your first visit to Japan, you’ll likely stick to visiting the golden route: Tokyo, Mt Fuji, Osaka, and Kyoto. If that’s the case, you’re in luck! This route will be filled with many incredible vegan food options.
City vs Countryside of Japan
The further you venture from the cities, the more limited your food options become. You may find yourself relying on konbini onigiri, pot noodles, bananas, and a handful of nuts to get by. (You’ll always find a trusty Coco Curry, so I hope you like curry and rice!)
That’s why it’s important to prioritise what matters most for your trip to Japan. Is it indulging in the food, visiting famous landmarks, or wandering off-the-beaten paths to experience the charm of rural Japan?
These are three of the most common chains you’ll see across Japan with some options.
If it’s the latter, you’ll simply have a different food experience, and that’s perfectly ok. Just come prepared with plenty of snacks, stock up at supermarkets and be ready to make most of your meals yourself. To help you plan, check out this post for a guide to vegan-friendly options at Japanese convenience stores.
For me, the perfect trip to Japan is a blend of both. A city trip packed with LOTS of incredible food and cultural landmarks, combined with time spent in nature. Whether that’s a road trip with my dad or going on a hike, it’s the best way to experience every bit of Japan.
Vegan Food in Tokyo
As Japan’s capital city, Tokyo is usually at the top of the list for travellers to visit – it’s the perfect mix of ultramodern and traditional experiences. Visit the Shibuya Sky to get a view of the Tokyo Skyline, the Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa for a bit of history, or Teamlabs to immerse yourself in contemporary art.
One of my favourite ways to enjoy Tokyo is by window shopping in its many shopping malls, going into second-hand camera stores, uncovering unique stationary and art stores or embracing the city’s slower side with a leisurely coffee in a cosy bookshop cafe.
Must-try cafe in Tokyo
Vegan Cafe PQ is hands down one of my favourite independent cafes in Tokyo. I love the vibes here; it’s so cosy, filled with lots of plants and cool artwork, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge.
As a fully vegan cafe, they offer plenty of yummy drinks and snacks, but if you want something a bit more filling, their vibrant, seasonally changing curry is a must-try!
Must-try dinner spot in Tokyo
Izakaya Masaka is a restaurant I recommend to everyone! This fully vegan Izakaya in Tokyo specialises in quick-serving, ‘dirty’ dishes normally paired with alcohol. Expect juicy, crispy mock karaage (vegan crispy chicken), flavourful gyozas, tofu and veggie side dishes. It’s so delicious that they can even fool meat eaters!
Located in Shibuya, it’s a popular sport that gets busy really quickly- arriving early is your best bet to snag a table. If you ever visit the Skytree, Vegan Izakaya Nowhere is also a great option!
When you’re craving sweet treats in Tokyo
I beg you to visit a vegan bakery in Tokyo. I always say that bakeries are one of Japan’s hidden gems that are not often talked about. One spot to check out is Morethan Bakery in Shinjuku – especially on a Sunday. I promise you won’t regret it, and you’ll leave with a bag of goodies!
When you’re craving savoury food in Tokyo
You simply can’t visit Japan without trying gyoza – a staple in Japanese cuisine. For a vegan twist, head to Vegan Gyoza Yu and experience up to 10 unique flavours!
Favourite spots to visit in Tokyo
When I’m in the mood for a laid-back day, Daikanyama or Shimokitazawa are my go-to neighbourhoods. Both are perfect for leisurely exploring, with vintage shops, galleries and a relaxed vibe. If I visit Shimokitazawa, you can bet I’ll be at Universal Cakes and Bakes for a cheeky pastry!
I also love spending a chilled day at T-Site in Daikanyama. Spread across three stunning buildings, it’s a book lover’s paradise. Whether you’re into English literature, art books, or magazines, there’s something for everyone. The space also has a Family Mart for snacks, a Starbucks where you can settle in with your latest read, and even a cocktail bar upstairs in the lounge
Vegan Food in Osaka
Known as Japan’s kitchen, Osaka is famous for its warm and friendly people and yummy street food. Explore the bustling Dontonbori or visit Osaka Castle and learn about its rich history. Or perhaps Universal Studios is why you’d like to explore this part of Japan.
Must-try cafe in Osaka
Optimus Cafe is a lovely place to come for coffee or breakfast with views of the river and Osaka City Central Public Hall across.
Must-try dinner spot in Osaka
Located in Shinsaibashi, OKO Takoyaki offers vegan takoyaki (a classic Japanese street food filled with octopus) made using okara. Their sister shop, OKO Okonomiyaki, is just a short distance away, specialising in Okonomiyaki with vegan options, but keep in mind that they serve meat in that location.
When you’re craving sweet treats in Osaka
You have to visit Canelita Sweets and check out their Instagram, they’re as good as they look. If you’re looking for American-style desserts, come and indulge in their cakes, doughnuts, brownies and cookies. It’s all 100% vegan!
When you’re craving savoury food in Osaka
Come to Mercy Vegan Factory, it’s one of the top-rated spots in Osaka on HappyCow. From their tamago sando (vegan egg sandwich) to Korean gimbap, there’s plenty to choose from, with a lot of gluten-free options too. And at the end, if you fancy a dessert, they have that here too!
Favourite spots to visit in Osaka
If it’s your first time in Osaka, Dontonbori is a true rite of passage! Stroll along the river amongst the giant billboards and vibrant, wacky advertisements. For a different vibe, head to Horie, a neighbourhood full of independent boutiques, art galleries and cool coffee shops.
Vegan Food in Kyoto
Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto, is steeped in traditional culture and rich history. From the iconic bamboo groves in Arashiyama to strolling through the same streets where geishas walk in Gion and visiting stunning temples, there’s so much to explore. You can take part in a traditional tea ceremony, try on a kimono, and get lost in the charming, narrow streets.
Must try cafe in Kyoto
For a peaceful experience, enjoy a bite to eat at Veg Out, a fully vegan cafe in Simogyo where you can enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the Kamo River. It’s very peaceful here with a variety of menu options to enjoy – we were even lucky enough to spot a crane while we had our breakfast.
Must-try dinner spot in Kyoto
TowZen Ramen is a reservation-only vegan ramen restaurant in Kyoto. With a simple yet satisfying menu offering just two soymilk ramen options, TowZen focuses on quality and customization. You can adjust the spice level to the amount of noodles in your bowl. They also offer delicious side plates to complement your meal, and if you still have room after your vegan ramen, don’t miss their tempting dessert options.
When you’re craving sweet treats in Kyoto
Come to Musubi Sweet Factory in Arashiyama. They specialise in making cheesecakes and tortes made entirely from tofu and soy products. If you’re in the mood for lunch afterwards, their sister company Musubi Cafe is a lovely lunch spot with vegan options only a few minutes away.
When you’re craving savoury food in Kyoto
You can never go wrong with a big bowl of noodles! Pop into Mimikou to enjoy Kyoto-style curry udon, it’s warm, hearty and totally satisfying!
Favourite spots to visit in Kyoto
Gion (try fluffy steamed bun here) and Arashiyama (here’s a cute lunch spot) are two of my favourite destinations, for their narrow and interesting streets and historic architecture, many before us have walked.
However, these popular spots have become quite overcrowded in recent years. If you’re seeking peace and serenity, I recommend visiting the Silver Pavilion or Tofukuji Temple instead.
Vegan Food in Hiroshima
Hiroshima holds a profound historical significance as the first city affected by an atomic bomb in World War II, with many reminders such as the Peace Memorial Park Museum along with other monuments scattered throughout the city.
Beyond its history, Hiroshima is a beautiful and tranquil destination, celebrated for its local specialities like okonomiyaki and stunning natural surroundings, including picturesque gardens and Miyajima Island.
Must-try cafe in Hiroshima
Kissa Saeki is a tranquil cafe that focuses on local and organic ingredients. From freshly baked goods to wholesome lunch sets, it’s a lovely spot for a relaxing day out in Hiroshima.
Must-try dinner spot in Hiroshima
I know many of you aren’t travelling all the way to Japan just for pizza (or maybe you are…), but trust me—head to Parco della Pace for some of the best you’ll ever taste! Plus, the husband-and-wife team who run it are the sweetest.
When you’re craving sweet treats
Akushu Cafe is the place to be! They serve vegan soft-serve ice cream, and the portions are pretty generous too!
When you’re craving savoury food
Come to Nagataya for a Hiroshima-style vegan okonomiyaki. It’s very popular, so I hope you don’t mind queuing for a bit!
Favourite spots to visit
It would be a shame to come all this way without taking a day trip to Miyajima. Get yourself on the ferry and explore this pretty island. If you make it there, check out Tachiba for a light meal.
Note: If possible, make reservations for restaurants in Hiroshima. Unlike in Tokyo, where you can often just walk in, I didn’t even think about booking ahead and ended up missing out on a couple of great dinner spots.
Visit Vegan Restaurants and Cafes in Japan
Whenever you can, make a point to visit vegan cafes and restaurants during your trip. Many small, independent vegan spots across Japan faced tough times during lockdown, and your support can make a real difference. Plus, these locally owned spots often serve some of the best plant-based dishes you’ll find anywhere.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to update HappyCow after your visit! HappyCow is a community-driven app, so your reviews, photos, and up-to-date info can be incredibly helpful for future vegan travelers exploring Japan.
Tips & Tricks for Your Vegan Trip to Japan
Essentials You’ll Need
- Reliable Internet Access: Whether you choose a SIM card, eSIM, or pocket WiFi, staying connected is key for using maps, translation apps and looking up vegan spots on the go. (Consider Japan Wireless as your eSIM provider!)
- Comfortable Shoes: Be prepared to walk a lot, from exploring temples to wandering through bustling cities. Trust me — comfy shoes are a lifesaver.
- Tote Bag: You never know when you’ll stumble across a cute souvenir or a vegan snack you want to grab. Plus, many shops in Japan charge for plastic bags, so a reusable tote is handy and eco-friendly.
- Cash: Japan is still a cash-heavy country, especially at smaller restaurants and markets. Don’t rely solely on cards.
- Bank Card: Make sure you have a card that works at international ATMs.
- Travel Health Insurance: It’s just not worth the risk. Make sure you’re covered for any unexpected illness, injury, or adventure mishap.
- Camera: Japan is ridiculously photogenic — you’ll want to capture it all, from stunning landscapes to adorable vegan desserts!
Helpful Apps for Vegan Travelers
- Google Maps: Perfect for saving all the vegan restaurants and cafes you find before your trip. Plus, it’s essential for navigating public transport.
- Google Translate: Use the camera feature to translate menus, packaging, and signs.
- Shirabe Jisho: A great Japanese dictionary app if you want to dive a bit deeper into understanding the language.
- HappyCow: The ultimate app for finding vegan-friendly restaurants across Japan. Don’t leave home without it!
- Japan Transit Planner (Navitime): Helps you plan train journeys, with options for the fastest route or the cheapest fare.
- Instagram: Whether you’re discovering new spots or checking if a place is actually open, it’s an incredibly handy platform. It’s how I stay up-to-date with all things vegan in Japan!
Helpful Websites and Facebook Groups
- Website: Is it vegan Japan?
- Facebook group: Vegan Japan
- Facebook: Vegan Travel
- Facebook: Vegan Travel Japan
These communities are gold for up-to-date recommendations, local vegan finds, and insider tips from fellow travelers.
Follow Vegan Google Maps
📍 Rohan’s Vegan Japan Map – It’s packed with vegan-friendly places across Japan, from Tokyo to tiny towns you’d never expect. It’s a game-changer!
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I may be a little biased, but Japan is my happy place, and it’s an experience I hope others can share. With an incredibly diverse array of plant-based food options, it’s a vegan foodie’s dream! From traditional Japanese foods to unique Japanese takes on global favourites, there’s so much to try!
I hope this guide helps you plan the vegan trip of your dreams — and if there’s anything I’ve missed or if you have any questions, feel free to get in touch. I’d love to help!
Want to feel more confident buying food in Japan? Check out my Beginner’s Vegan Japanese Language Guide – it’s packed with useful phrases and handy ocab to make your trip even smoother.
