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Curator’s statement
Kyoto is on nearly every itinerary for those visiting Japan. With seafood dominating many of the menus, dining can be a challenge for those with dietary restrictions. Here is a recommended list of vegetarian restaurants where you won't be missing seafood or meat.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Kyoto, Japan
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Located along the banks of the Kamo River in Japan, this luxurious modern retreat inspired by a traditional Japanese ryokan has four restaurants and a tranquil spa.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage or spa credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Park Hyatt Kyoto
Hotel, restaurant and farm with a hip L.A.-meets-Bali vibe.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Dhawa Yura Kyoto
Immerse yourself in contemporary elegance and Japanese tradition at this modern hotel, where sleek design meets warm hospitality in the cultural heart of Kyoto, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city.
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Places to eat and drink in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto Engine Ramen: Two different style of Vegan ramen dishes. I recommend the Zesty ramen. You can't skip their vegan soup dumplings either.
Vegan Ramen Uzu Kyoto: A great option for a spicy vegan ramen dish, but the real star here is the vegan pressed sushi.
Mumokuteki Cafe Kyoto: The cutest lifestyle boutique with a connected cafe in a central location. Plan to shop around and then grab a bite to eat.
Toriba Coffee Kyoto: A bit out of the way, but easy to reach and ideal for people watching. Plan ahead to stop for lunch and grab their vegan version of a chicken katsu sandwich. This one is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser for meat eaters too!
Pelgag: Located on the third floor off a side street, Pelgag is every bit off the beaten path and local as you could get. Expect a flavorful plate of vegan goodies, or visit on a day the owner and chef is making their vegetarian Doria.
Ain Soph. Journey Kyoto: A Japanese vegan staple you can't miss while dining at Ain Soph. If you're in Tokyo, you can visit their location in Ginza as well.
Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppanyaki Kamehameha: A reservation-required spot to sample a vegetarian version of a traditionally non-vegetarian classic. With one row of seating, this hidden gem fills up, so have your hotel or Fora Advisor make you a reservation well in advance of your arrival in Kyoto.
'apelila: A vegan bakery to fulfill all of your pastry needs. If you need a bit more, get a cup of soup to tide you over through the afternoon. Only open Tuesday - Friday, plan your visit to this spot carefully to make sure you can try their baked goods.
Gyoza ChaoChao: Arrive early, or plan to wait as this popular spot fills up and for good reason. Bustling and bright this gyoza eatery has options for your meat-loving friends, as well as vegetarians and vegans. Plan for a set which includes a beverage, two gyozas of your choice and a side.
Day Trips
Day trips in Japan can be daunting for a vegetarian. If you plan to make a trip out to Nara while staying in Kyoto, make sure you add Mizuya Chaya to your itinerary. Located within Nara Park, vegetarians, vegans and meat-eaters alike can enjoy lunch under one roof. No quick dash to 7-Eleven for a packet of Inari Sushi or egg salad sandwich needed.
Need to know
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Kyoto. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Restaurants and Cafés Worth Adding to Your Milan Itinerary.
Travel Advisor
Camille Coss
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