Is It Impossible to Eat Vegetarian in Tokyo?

When thinking of Japanese food, images of the world’s best sushi like Sukiyabashi Jiro may spring to mind, or perhaps dreams of marbled Kobe beef start you salivating – but what about the vegetarian in Tokyo, Japan?

Tokyo is bracing for the 2020 Olympics and one of the city’s goals is to have more vegetarian options for international visitors. There’s no shortage of outstanding food in Tokyo – after all, they hold the most Michelin stars of any city in the world – but dining out without eating meat or seafood presents a unique set of problems.

Fear not, this guide will show you some of the best places to grab a healthy animal-free meal in Tokyo. A good start is to practice the phrase Watashi Wa bejitariandesu, mattaku sakanan (I am vegetarian, no fish) as seafood is traditionally not regarded as meat.

Vegetarian Food Is Lively in Tokyo Image courtesy Andrea Schaffer Flickr

Get Your Nose Running and The Fire Burning at Chabuzen

Chabuzen café skimps on decor and space so they can bring you the best in ramen, packing all the flavor but none of the fish flakes.  Sit down in the small but cozy restaurant and the owner will ask you “vegetarian or not?” and then hold up seven fingers allowing you to choose your spice level.  Be warned : they take their spice seriously, so when in doubt, drop it down a number. You’re going to appreciate that the curry is served with a side of brown rice to quench the heat. As vegetarian food becomes a phenomenon due to outside influence, there are signs in English promising 100% animal-free food–which means this is also a vegan-friendly establishment.

Eat Like a Monk in the Splendor of Mount Takao

Buddhist monks are taught to respect all life forms and honor what nature provides them. What better place to get in touch with these ideals than at the beautiful Head Temple Takao-san Yakuo-in, located on Mount Takao just outside of Tokyo? You’ll need a Japanese speaking friend to make reservations for you, but dining at this Monk training temple is an experience you will never forget. The food is all vegetarian and the menu is created by the staff, so you just show up and dine. To add to the magic of the event you can make the reservations during one of the fire-walking or waterfall acension ceremonies and truly immerse yourself in the food and culture of Japan.

Tokyo Image Courtesy of Kevin Dooley Flickr

Enjoy a Bento Box or Bowl at Brown Rice

Packing in protein can be a challenge when eating vegetarian and the Brown Rice restaurant has your back. With an emphasis on fresh, local, and whole food you’re sure to find plenty of beans, legumes, and dark leafy greens to boost your blood and keep you feeling full. Their monthly rice bowl highlights seasonal vegetables and can be had for 1200 yen ($11) including brown rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables, and a beautiful coffee.

No matter what your dining preference, there’s one thing everyone staying in Tokyo needs : a great Tokyo hotel at a low price.

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