Unveiling 18 Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan

Can we enjoy vegan cuisine at restaurants in Japan?

The number of vegan-friendly restaurants is increasing in Japan!

An increasing number of restaurants in Japan are now offering vegan menus, including fine dining establishments featured in the Michelin Guide. Traditionally, many Japanese kaiseki and shojin cuisine restaurants have focused on plant-based ingredients, making it easier for them to cater to vegan diets. Moreover, some sushi restaurants have started to provide vegan options as well.

*Kaiseki cuisine is a traditional Japanese course meal comprised of many small dishes. Shojin cuisine refers to Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.

In Kyoto, there's no shortage of kaiseki restaurants catering to vegan diets, while Tokyo offers a diverse array of dining options with vegan-friendly choices, from sushi and tempura to ramen. With these culinary delights, Japan offers ample opportunities to savor memorable dining experiences that will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip!

In this article, the editorial team from OMAKASE, the only online culinary service provider in Japan that is officially recognized by the Michelin Guide, will guide you through a variety of vegan-friendly restaurants. Our selections include award-winning establishments featured in the Michelin Guide, as well as recommendations from Japan's largest restaurant review website, alongside casual and affordable dining options.

How each genre of restaurants are providing vegan-friendly options Sushi

Sushi

While the availability of vegan sushi in Japan is still limited, the number of sushi restaurants offering vegan options, free from fish or shellfish, is gradually increasing.

Tempura

While many tempura restaurants typically offer a rich variety of vegetable tempura, which is an ideal option for vegans, it's worth noting that some establishments use eggs in their batter, making it not entirely vegan-friendly. However, an increasing number of tempura restaurants in Tokyo are now catering to international guests by offering batter made solely from flour and potato starch mixed with water, omitting eggs.

French cuisine

While traditional French cuisine often incorporates animal ingredients like dairy products, an increasing number of French restaurants in Japan are now accommodating vegans. Michelin-starred French restaurants, which use locally sourced Japanese ingredients, have gained popularity among celebrities worldwide.

Japanese cuisine

Japanese shojin cuisine, originally consumed by those training in temples, has a long history and does not include animal products, making it an ideal choice for vegans. Many upscale dining establishments in Kyoto offer vegan-friendly kaiseki omakase courses. However, it's important to note that restaurants not specifically catering to vegans may incorporate dairy products and eggs, so it's advisable to check beforehand.

Ramen

In Japan, there are several vegan ramen restaurants that cater to plant-based diets. These establishments typically feature vegetable-based toppings such as onions instead of traditional roasted pork and seasoned eggs. Additionally, some of these restaurants go a step further by using entirely plant-based ingredients in the soup stock for the ramen broth.

Gyoza dumplings

Several ramen restaurants in Japan now offer vegan gyoza (dumplings) as a side dish, while others specialize in entirely vegan gyoza options. Additionally, frozen vegan gyoza are available for purchase online, and some restaurants allow patrons to enjoy them on-site. In a notable development, one of Japan's largest chain ramen restaurants offered vegan gyoza across its 403 branches in 2023. This trend suggests that the availability of vegan-friendly gyoza is likely to increase in the future.

Tips for reserving vegan-friendly dining experiences

Points to note when making reservations at fine dining restaurants that offer “vegan options,” not restaurants specializing in vegan meals

1. Be sure to reserve a vegan-only course if available.
2. If the restaurant does not offer dedicated vegan courses but claims to accommodate vegan diets, specify your dietary preferences and any food restrictions when making the reservation.
3. If the restaurant does not accept vegan-specific reservations through online platforms, consider booking directly on their website or by phone.

Depending on the restaurant, they may not be able to procure ingredients if you contact them close to your reservation date, so it is preferable to make your reservation at least one week in advance.

Even for a casual, affordable restaurant, we suggest making reservations a couple of days in advance and informing them of your vegan preference, or checking if they can accommodate a vegan menu.

Discover 13 upscale vegan-friendly restaurants

We'll guide you through restaurants that offer vegan-friendly options, particularly those featured in the Michelin Guide, ensuring your dining experience will become a highlight of your trip.

* For details on vegan menu availability and reservation procedures, please refer to their official website.

Sushi

Udatsu Sushi/Tokyo

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Sushi meets art in an art gallery-like ambiance at Udatsu Sushi, offering a traditional, authentic Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi experience.

Every ingredient is of exceptional quality: the rice is specially grown for Udatsu Sushi by a trusted farmer, and the rice vinegar is meticulously crafted by blending three types of vinegar. Chef Udatsu prioritizes building relationships with producers. His visit to a farm in Hiroshima inspired the innovative herb roll, which showcases completely pesticide-free herbs and white fish.

■ Vegan menu availability

Udatsu Sushi also caters to vegans with vegetable sushi options and offers a dedicated vegan dinner course priced at 15,000 JPY (advance reservation required).

Sushi Murase /Tokyo

1. Japan's biggest restaurant review website Sushi Tokyo Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,22

Patrons can indulge in the chef’s omakase course featuring small appetizers, nigiri, and rolls, accompanied by approximately 30 types of toppings, offering a diverse range of flavors at Sushi Murase. Chef Murase meticulously selects red vinegar or rice vinegar for the rice, depending on the topping, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced. With English-speaking staff available, guests from overseas can fully enjoy their dining experience without any concerns. Sushi Murase is affiliated with Sushi Sho, one of Japan's most renowned sushi restaurants where many aspiring sushi chefs have trained.

■ Vegan menu availability

At Sushi Murase, fish is the only animal ingredient used. Therefore, if you are able to consume fish like a pescetarian would, you are welcome to enjoy a meal at Sushi Murase.

Tempura

Mochiku/ Tokyo

1. Japan's biggest restaurant review website Tempura Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2022,23

With a history spanning over 100 years since its establishment in 1914, Mochiku offers tempura infused with a blend of old and new traditions. Their tempura is cooked in the highest-quality sesame oil, which is made using traditional techniques passed down over 150 years, resulting in a light, crisp finish.

In addition to tempura, Mochiku offers remarkable side dishes such as nukazuke (fermented vegetables in rice bran) made in the nuka-bed, which has been passed down for over 60 years. The fourth-generation owner, who apprenticed at traditional Japanese restaurants, expertly crafts side dishes to complement the meal.

■ Vegan menu availability

The restaurant provides menu options exclusively featuring vegetables. While eggs are used in the tempura batter, vegetarians can still enjoy their dishes. * Please remember to inform the restaurant of any preferences or dietary restrictions when making your reservation.

French cuisine

Noeud.TOKYO / Tokyo

One Star , Green Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Indulge in the delights of Noeud TOKYO, a sustainable French restaurant, where the essence of nature, seasons, and culinary artistry intertwine harmoniously. With an unwavering dedication to environmental consciousness, every aspect—from their thoughtfully curated vegetable-centered menu to their cooking methods—is meticulously crafted to minimize ecological impact. Embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the aromas of Japan's finest seasonal ingredients. Additionally, Noeud TOKYO utilizes recycled materials for interior decorations, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.

■ Vegan menu availability

The restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan menu options for lunch and dinner upon request. (Please note that these options are only available for reservations made at least three days in advance.)

Les Saisons / Tokyo

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

1. Japan's biggest restaurant review website French Tokyo Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021 and 2023

Situated within the Imperial Hotel Tokyo, the epitome of Japan’s luxury hotels, Les Saisons is a one-Michelin-starred French restaurant. Recognized as one of the Top 100 French restaurants in Tokyo by the Japan's biggest restaurant review website website in both 2021 and 2023, Les Saisons promises an unparalleled dining experience. Guided by Chef Thierry Voisin, formerly of the iconic Les Crayères in Champagne, France, you can indulge in the pinnacle of French culinary mastery. Immerse yourself in an atmosphere of sophistication and modern elegance as you savor the finest French cuisine.

■ Vegan menu availability

Indulge in their signature dish, the Black Truffle Baked Pie, a culinary masterpiece passed down from Chef Gerard Boyer, a legendary master with a three-Michelin-star rating, during the chef's 16 years of training under him. This exclusive recipe has been reimagined into a vegan delight, meticulously crafted as part of their vegan omakase course, featuring thoughtfully curated seasonal ingredients.

*Please make reservations at least five days in advance.

*Prices are subject to change based on the season and ingredients.

*Please ask for details over the phone.

Édition Koji Shimomura / Tokyo

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Prepare yourself for an extraordinary culinary experience at Edition Koji Shimomura, a two-Michelin-starred French restaurant. Chef Shimomura boasts extensive training at renowned establishments such as La Côte d'Or, Troisgros, and Guy Savoy, all of which have earned three Michelin stars. He prioritizes the authentic flavor of the ingredients, deviating from the common use of butter and cream in French cuisine. Each dish is an artistic masterpiece, characterized by both its exquisite appearance and its light, healthy, and calorie-conscious nature.

■ Vegan menu availability

For advance reservations, vegan and vegetarian courses are available.

・Lunch: 17,600 JPY (tax included, service charge not included)

・Dinner: 26,000 JPY (tax included, service charge not included)

*You can see photos of the beautiful vegan dishes in the gallery on the website.

https://www.koji-shimomura.jp/gallary

Kaiseki & Japanese Cuisine

Daigo/ Tokyo

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Experience the best of traditional shojin cuisine (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) at Daigo, a restaurant with over 70 years of history. As the only shojin cuisine restaurant in the world to receive Michelin stars, Daigo offers exceptional hospitality and serves meals bursting with rich flavors—it's almost unbelievable that they're entirely plant-based!

Shojin cuisine, a vegetarian Japanese cuisine traditionally enjoyed by Buddhist monks, aims to promote harmony between nature and the spirit. Nestled within a temple surrounded by Tokyo's skyscrapers, Daigo invites you to step into a serene escape in its traditional Japanese dining room.

■ Vegan menu availability

For advance reservations, they can provide meals that do not contain any animal-related products. The restaurant is highly regarded among foreign celebrities who adhere to a vegan lifestyle.

* Please remember to inform the restaurant of any preferences or dietary restrictions when making your reservation.

Kuhara / Tokyo

Bib Gourmand

Michelin Guide, 2024

With over 20 years of training in shojin cuisine and kaiseki cuisine restaurants, the chef at Kuhara creates dishes that highlight the authentic flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a simple yet exquisite finish. Without any chemical flavorings, you can truly savor the rich taste of the food. The owner couple provides quality service and friendly hospitality in a relaxing atmosphere, enveloped in the warmth of the natural wood used in the interior. One group per day has the special privilege of enjoying this exquisite meal at the counter, where they can witness the chef's skills up close.

■ Vegan menu availability

・The restaurant is able to provide a completely vegan meal.

・Please provide details when making a reservation. They are also able to offer vegan meat meals.

・If the reservation is made one week in advance, a 100% shojin cuisine course can be prepared (7,000 JPY or more).

Yuyu / Kyoto

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

If you’re craving traditional Japanese cuisine that reflects the current season and makes abundant use of the rich and sweet tastes of Kyoto vegetables, look no further than Yuyu. You can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes made with carefully selected, high-quality fish and vegetables sourced from all over Japan, as well as innovative culinary arrangements that showcase the chef’s creativity. Upon entering the restaurant, you can relax comfortably at the counter seats in a sophisticated atmosphere characteristic of Kyoto’s harmony. Yuyu also offers à la carte menus in the evening.

■ Vegan menu availability

・They will do their best to accommodate your needs.

*Limited to those who can eat fish.

Gion Fukushi / Kyoto

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

1. Japan's biggest restaurant review website Japanese Cuisine West Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2023

Come and indulge in the extraordinary Japanese food at Gion Fukushi, where the traditions of Japanese and Kyoto cuisine are emphasized. Handcrafted by the head chef, who has undergone extensive training at high-end Japanese restaurants, the dishes feature the freshest seasonal ingredients and vary daily to allow patrons to experience the delicate changes of the seasons. Located in the heart of Kyoto’s geisha district, Gion Fukushi provides a memorable dining experience. Enjoying kaiseki meals at the quiet counter tables amidst the traditional Japanese interior will immerse every guest in the essence of Japan.

■ Vegan menu availability

The restaurant is able to accommodate your requests.

Ichijoji Norihide / Kyoto

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Indulge in the exquisite tradition of Japanese kaiseki cuisine at Ichijoji Norihide. It continues the culinary legacy of a beloved Gion establishment, cherished by Japanese actors. Here, seasonal ingredients are honored, preserving the delicate flavors of classic Kyoto-style dishes. Their soup stock is crafted from mineral-rich well water, ensuring depth and richness in every dish. With meticulous attention to detail, the staff of Ichijoji Norihide personally visit production sites to source the finest ingredients. Immerse yourself in a serene and harmonious atmosphere, surrendering to a truly magnificent dining experience.

■ Vegan menu availability

Please provide details when making a reservation.

Shigetsu / Kyoto

Embark on an enchanting culinary journey at Shigetsu, a shojin cuisine restaurant nestled within Tenryuji Temple, a renowned World Heritage site and part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Rooted in the tradition of serving Buddhist monks, shojin cuisine embodies harmony with nature, offering a uniquely healthy dining experience. Focusing on plant-based ingredients such as vegetables, mountain greens, wild herbs, and seaweed, Shigetsu crafts exquisite dishes that resonate with the flavors of the season.

Shigetsu’s shojin cuisine is a stunning fusion of aesthetics and flavor, transforming the traditional perception of temple cuisine into a captivating culinary experience. Delight in the vibrant flavors of fresh, seasonal ingredients meticulously prepared to perfection. Awarded the prestigious Bib Gourmand recognition, Shigetsu offers an exceptional opportunity to indulge in shojin cuisine at a reasonable price, with meals priced at less than JPY 10,000.

■ Vegan menu availability

・The restaurant is able to accommodate your requests.

・They have a vegan menu.

Innovative

NARISAWA / Tokyo

1. Michelin (2020 - 24)：★★

Narisawa, a globally renowned restaurant, boasts two Michelin stars, ranks 19th in the prestigious 50 Best Restaurants in the World list, and consistently earns top marks in the Sustainable Restaurant Awards. Embodying Japan's satoyama ethos, which emphasizes sustainable coexistence between nature and humanity, Narisawa translates this philosophy into innovative gourmet creations, elevating cuisine to a profound expression of values.

In one of its most iconic offerings, soil soup, patrons savor the essence of soil itself. Showcasing the exquisite transition of seasons, both in flavor and aesthetics, their omakase course stands unparalleled. With a warm and welcoming staff fluent in English, your dining experience is guaranteed to be delightful.

■ Vegan menu availability

・A vegan course is available.

・If you have any dislikes or allergies, please inform them when making your reservation, and the restaurant will gladly tailor the menu to accommodate your vegetarian or vegan requirements.

Make a reservation

Five Casual Restaurants that Offer Vegan-Friendly Menus

Ramen

Soranoiro/ Tokyo

1. Japan's biggest restaurant review website Ramen Tokyo Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2017 - 23

Soranoiro was founded in 2011 with the vision of creating "a ramen shop where a woman can feel comfortable dining alone." Recognized as one of Tokyo's top 100 ramen restaurants by the Japan's biggest restaurant review website website from 2017 to 2023, Soranoiro was among the first to offer a ramen menu tailored to accommodate vegetarian and vegan preferences.

The "vegesoba" features a soup infused with the natural sweetness of carrots, complemented by paprika-infused low-sugar noodles, and enriched with a clam-based broth. As for the "vegan ramen," it boasts a soy sauce-based soup enhanced with a blend of vegetables, seasoned with rice oil, and garnished with paprika, Japanese radish, and atsuage (fried tofu).

Make a reservation

Vegan Ramen UZU / Kyoto

1. Bib Gourmand (2021 - 24)

Partnering with the Japanese digital art company TeamLab, Vegan Ramen UZU invites you to savor a delectable vegan ramen experience amidst a fusion of technology and art. Their signature dish, "Vegan Ramen Soy Sauce," features a hearty broth made from seaweed and shiitake mushrooms, infused with the richness of vegetables and enhanced by the tanginess and savory umami of tomato toppings. Its irresistibly delicious flavors defy belief in its complete absence of animal products. Additionally, they offer organic wine selections that perfectly complement the flavors of their cuisine, along with a vegan rendition of Kyoto's traditional pressed sushi, oshizushi, ensuring a fully satisfying dining experience.

There is a store in Tokyo as well. Reservations required.

Make a reservation

T's Tantan/ Tokyo

T’s Tantan has crafted a vegan menu designed to tantalize taste buds of all kinds. Specializing in ramen, T’s Tantan boasts three locations in Tokyo and two at Narita Airport. Additionally, T's Restaurant, a vegan establishment under the same group, is located at another site.

At T’s Restaurant, indulge in Western-inspired dishes featuring soy milk white sauce paired with soy-based meat, along with delectable sweets made entirely from plant-based ingredients. Meanwhile, at the ramen shop, savor options like the richly aromatic tantanmen, vegetable-packed ramen with a Japanese-style citrus-infused broth, as well as vegan curry and gyoza.

Make a reservation

Gyoza

Vegan Gyoza Yu Coffee / Tokyo

Indulge in delightful organic gyoza free from animal products and artificial additives. Available in two sets—steamed and grilled—each boasting 11 vibrant colors of the rainbow, these gyoza from Vegan Gyoza Yu feature a filling made with hearty soy meat and encased in a thick, flavorful wrapper. With a growing number of international vegan travelers visiting Japan, the chef's fluent English ensures a seamless dining experience. As it's also a café, you can complement your meal with a selection of coffee and craft beer.

Make a reservation

Izakaya Masaka / Tokyo

Izakaya Masaka stands out as one of Japan's rare vegan izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), offering a comprehensive vegan menu designed to cater to both vegans and non-vegans alike. Their signature dishes include vegan gyoza and vegan karaage (Japanese-style fried “meat”), where the soy meat filling pairs harmoniously with the delicate wrapper. For the karaage, patrons can choose from a variety of sauces, including vegan mayonnaise. With the chef's expert craftsmanship, each dish boasts flavors and presentations that belie the absence of animal products, leaving diners pleasantly surprised.