Japan is not an easy place for vegans and vegetarians. Most dishes usually contain dashi - a skipjack bonito broth - while vegan and vegetarian eating, whether it’s a lifestyle choice or religious adherence, is not widely understood. Things have improved significantly, however, and Tokyo now has a good number of restaurants catering to vegans and vegetarians.
Shiro tantan ramen bowl, vegetable toppings and deep-fried soy meat at T's Tantan. - image © Florentyna Leow
The restaurants we mention below are just some of our favourites in town. All vegan places will be suitable for vegetarians, and we’ve specified whether restaurants are fully vegan or not in our reviews below. More traditional tofu restaurants may wish to be informed of vegetarian requirements in advance. One thing’s for sure, though – it has never been easier or more fun to eat vegetarian and vegan food in Tokyo than now!
You may also enjoy our 1-Day Tokyo Vegetarian Foodie Itinerary to help you maximise hitting some of the best places in a short time.
Best Vegan In Tokyo
- Milan Nataraj (Shibuya; budget)
For delicious Indian food that’s vegan and budget-friendly, head over to Milan Nataraj, located a short walk from Shibuya crossing. Where else are you going to find vegan naan in this city? There are vegan, vegetarian, and garlic/onion-free options on the menu – something for everyone here! - Ain Soph Ripple (Shinjuku; budget)
Vegan folks needn’t be left out when it comes to eating fast food classics. Ain Soph Ripple in Shinjuku serves killer veggie burgers, vegan mac n’ cheese, and waffles to satisfy any sweet-toothed eater. You might even convert your fellow carnivores! - Rainbow Raw Food (Ebisu; budget to mid-range)
Not only does Rainbow Raw Food in Ebisu serve vegan fare, the dishes are either completely raw or prepared at temperatures under 48 degrees. Plus, it’s actually delicious. Great if you want to feel like a whole new person after lunch! - Brown Rice Canteen (Harajuku; budget to mid-range)
Yes, you can have traditional Japanese food that doesn’t contain fish stock! Brown Rice Canteen in Omotesando serves up set lunches showcasing great Japanese vegetables and fermented foods – everything is healthy, organic, and vegan. - T’s Tantan (Tokyo Station; budget)
Looking for a tasty vegan bowl of noodles while in Tokyo Station? Then look no further than T’s Tantan Ramen for a delicious and spicy meal.
Best Vegan and Vegetarian In Tokyo
- Soranoiro NIPPON (Tokyo Station; budget)
Think ramen’s all meat and fish? Think again. Whether you're a vegetarian or not, the vegetable noodle bowls at Soranoiro NIPPON in Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street are sure to steal your heart. There are vegan and gluten-free options, too. - Soranoiro Japanese Soup Noodle Free Style Honten (Imperial Palace area; budget)
Vegan or vegetarian ramen may sound like an oxymoron, but Soranoiro’s bright, flavorful bowls will convert any skeptics to this cause. The original Special Veggie Soba at their main Kojimachi branch is sure to win over both veggie and non-veggie lovers alike. - Milan Nataraj (Shibuya; budget)
For delicious Indian food that’s vegan and budget-friendly, head over to Milan Nataraj, located a short walk from Shibuya crossing. Where else are you going to find vegan naan in this city? There are vegan, vegetarian, and garlic/onion-free options on the menu – something for everyone here! - Brown Rice Canteen (Harajuku; budget to mid-range)
Yes, you can have traditional Japanese food that doesn’t contain fish stock! Brown Rice Canteen in Omotesando serves up set lunches showcasing great Japanese vegetables and fermented foods – everything is healthy, organic, and vegan. - Nagi Shokudo (Shibuya; budget)
Nagi Shokudo in Shibuya isn’t the easiest place to find, but you’ll be rewarded with colourful, generously portioned, hearty vegetarian set meals when you do. We love this place.
Best Vegetarian In Tokyo
- Momonoki House (Harajuku; budget)
Looking for vegetarian options in Harajuku? In the quiet neighborhood of Jingumae 2-chome is Momonoki House - a local vegetarian restaurant which has been going strong since 1976. - Tokyo Shiba Tofuya Ukai (Hamamatsucho; tofu kaiseki)
This superb and elegant tofu specialist on the west side of Shiba-koen Park is a great place to delve into the wonders of Japanese tofu cuisine. It's a great spot for vegetarians in search of a special meal. - Sasanoyuki (Ueno; mid-range)
For an unforgettable tofu meal, visit Sasanoyuki near Ueno. It’s an old-fashioned restaurant, but that’s all part of the experience.
Best Tokyo Restaurant Recommendations
- Best Restaurants in Tokyo
- Best Sushi in Tokyo
- Best Kaiseki/Kappo/Other Haute Cuisine in Tokyo
- Best Izakaya in Tokyo
- Best Ramen in Tokyo
- Best Soba in Tokyo
- Best Udon in Tokyo
- Best Tonkatsu in Tokyo
- Best Teppanyaki in Tokyo
- Best Tempura in Tokyo
- Best Wagyu in Tokyo
- Best Unagi in Tokyo
- Best Yakitori in Tokyo
- Best Pizza in Tokyo
- Best Curry Rice in Tokyo
- Best Soup Curry in Tokyo
- Best Teishoku and Donburi in Tokyo
- Best Vegan/Vegetarian in Tokyo
Tokyo Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
- Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
- You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals.
- If you're visiting more than one city, save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass – here's why it's worth it
- A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
- Get esssential travel insurance for Tokyo – World Nomads is well-regarded (and here's why)
