What to Eat in Japan?
Travelling to Japan from the UK with specific dietary needs? Eating well in Japan is absolutely possible with the right knowledge and planning.
We’ve helped many British travellers explore Japan’s rich food culture safely and confidently – even when venturing beyond Tokyo and Kyoto.
Managing Food Allergies
Food allergies are not widely understood in Japan, so a proactive approach is important.
Top tips:
Carry a printed allergy card in Japanese explaining your restrictions.
Be cautious of hidden ingredients like dashi (fish stock) or soy sauce (wheat).
Stick to simple dishes: grilled fish, plain rice, steamed veg.
Helpful site: Select Wisely for printed cards.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Plant-based food is becoming more available, especially in larger cities.
Suggestions:
Shojin Ryori (Buddhist temple cuisine) – completely vegan and cultural.
Department store food halls (depachika) offer salad bars and veg dishes.
Always ask about fish broth – it’s common in many “vegetable” dishes.
Helpful sites: HappyCow or Is It Vegan Japan
Gluten-Free Travellers
Gluten-free travel in Japan requires vigilance.
Tips:
Choose 100% buckwheat soba (ask for "juwari soba")
Safe foods: grilled yakitori, plain tofu, miso soup, rice, eggs
Carry a coeliac card in Japanese
Helpful links: Coeliac Travel Cards & Gluten-free Travel Japan
Kosher Travellers
Kosher travellers can enjoy Japan with some planning:
Suggestions:
Chabad Tokyo offers kosher meals and support.
Kosher Japan provides pre-packaged meals and delivery.
Bring snacks like tinned fish, nut butters, and shelf-stable foods.
Look for items like plain rice balls (onigiri), fresh fruit, and packaged nuts in convenience stores.
Helpful links: Chabad Japan & Kosher Japan & Kosher in Japan Facebook Group
Halal Travellers
Halal awareness is improving, particularly in tourist hubs:
Suggestions:
Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka have halal-certified restaurants.
Chains like Coco Ichibanya (Halal branches) and Naritaya serve Muslim travellers.
Some hotels can offer halal meals if requested in advance.
Helpful links: Halal Gourmet Japan & Japan Halal Foundation
General advice for Travellers
Plan in advance, especially for rural regions
Learn key phrases or carry translation cards
Use food apps while in Japan
