What to Eat in Japan – A Guide for Vegetarians, Kosher, Halal and Other Special Diets

Travelling to Japan from the UK with specific dietary needs?

Whether you're vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free or managing allergies, eating well is absolutely possble 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 | 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:

·       Gluten-Free Travel Japan

·       Coeliac Travel Cards

Kosher Travellers

Kosher travellers can enjoy Japan with some planning:

·       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:

·       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.

Useful sites: Halal Gourmet Japan | Japan Halal Foundation

Advice for UK Travellers

·       Plan in advance, especially for rural regions

·       Learn key phrases or carry translation cards

·       Use food apps while in Japan

Want help building a food-aware itinerary?  Chat with our Japan team

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