The Best Vegan Restaurants in Kyoto for Delicious Plant-Based Dining

If you’re on the hunt for vegan food in Kyoto, you're in for a treat. Known for its cultural heritage and classic Japanese dishes, Kyoto is now one of Japan’s top destinations for vegan friendly restaurants. From hearty vegan ramen to fresh vegan sushi and comforting vegetarian dishes, there’s no shortage of flavors for plant-based foodies.

Whether you’re visiting Kyoto for a day or a week, these Kyoto vegan restaurants will make your Japan trip delicious and memorable.

1. Ain Soph Journey – Modern Vegan Restaurant in Downtown Kyoto

Located near Kawaramachi Station, Ain Soph Journey serves up modern vegan food in a stylish space. Their vegan burger, pancakes with soy whipped cream, and buddha bowl salads are perfect for anyone seeking a filling and wholesome meal.

Highlights: Vegan burger, soy milk-based desserts, pancakes, veggie bowls
Price Range: ¥1,500–¥2,500
Nearby: Downtown Kyoto and Nishiki Market
Special Features: English menu, Instagram-worthy presentation, spacious interior

2. Veg Out – Riverside Vegan Café with a View

Overlooking the Kamo River, Veg Out offers one of the most relaxing dining experiences in Kyoto. This café serves nutritious vegan options, from seasonal vegetables and grain bowls to warming soups. Their smoothies and soy milk lattes are a big hit with health-conscious visitors.

Highlights: Brown rice bowls, smoothies, bean sprout salad, miso soup
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥1,800
Nearby: Shichijo Station and Kyoto National Museum
Special Features: Riverside seating, zen atmosphere, full vegan menu

3. Ukishima Garden Kyoto – Elegant Vegan Dining in Gion

One of the great vegan restaurants in Kyoto’s historic Gion area, Ukishima Garden offers upscale vegetarian dining with a creative twist. Their multi-course meals feature vegetable dishes, deep fried tofu, and seasonal Kyoto produce—all beautifully plated in a traditional Japanese house setting.

Highlights: Course meals, yuba gyoza, soy milk soup, vegetable curry
Price Range: ¥2,500–¥4,500
Nearby: Gion and Yasaka Shrine
Special Features: Fine-dining experience, elegant ambiance, plant-based cuisine

4. Tousuiro – Shojin Ryori in a Historic Kyoto Townhouse

Tousuiro is a must-visit for anyone wanting to eat shojin ryori, the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine of Japan. Set inside a beautifully preserved Kyoto townhouse, the restaurant offers a serene dining experience of small, thoughtful dishes made without animal products.

Highlights: Yuba, miso cutlet, grilled tofu, steamed vegetables
Price Range: ¥2,500–¥5,000
Nearby: Gion and Maruyama Park
Special Features: Seasonal tasting menu, traditional setting, vegan friendly

5. Towzen – Vegan Ramen in a Zen Garden Setting

Towzen specializes in 100% vegan ramen served in a peaceful garden setting. Their signature soy milk base broth with udon noodles, vegetables, and soy meat creates a creamy, rich flavor you won’t forget. It’s one of the top Kyoto vegan restaurants for ramen lovers.

Highlights: Vegan soy milk ramen, tofu toppings, rice bowls
Price Range: ¥900–¥1,500
Nearby: Kyoto University and Demachiyanagi Station
Special Features: Outdoor garden seating, quiet atmosphere, English-friendly

6. Mumokuteki Café – Cozy Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurant in Downtown Kyoto

Tucked away near Teramachi Street, Mumokuteki Café is a favorite among locals for hearty vegan food and relaxed vegetarian dining. Their signature rice bowls, vegetable curry, and soy milk lattes are packed with local veggies and Japanese flavors. You’ll love the calm ambiance and sustainable interior filled with mismatched furniture.

Highlights: Veggie burger, seasonal lunch sets, soy milk desserts, classic Japanese curry
Price Range: ¥1,200–¥1,800
Nearby: Nishiki Market and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcade
Special Features: Gluten-free options, large vegetarian menu, calming café vibes

7. Hale – Hidden Vegan Gem Inside Nishiki Market

Hale is a small, family-run vegan friendly restaurant inside the famous Nishiki Market. It’s easy to miss, but those who find it are rewarded with delicious vegan food in a traditional Japanese house setting. Their set meals often include soy meat, pickled vegetables, miso soup, and steamed rice, making it a wholesome lunch stop.

Highlights: Set meals with soy meat, small dishes, vegetable tempura
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥1,500
Nearby: Nishiki Market and Teramachi Street
Special Features: Quiet hideaway in a busy market, perfect for a light lunch meal

8. Café Atl – Relaxed Vegan Café in the Heart of Kyoto

Café Atl offers a laid-back spot for a casual bite in central Kyoto. This vegan friendly café serves hearty buddha bowls, soy milk drinks, and a rotating vegetarian menu using mostly organic ingredients. A perfect spot to unwind after sightseeing or shopping in Kyoto’s busy shopping streets.

Highlights: Rice bowls, lentil patties, gluten-free cakes, coffee with soy milk
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥1,600
Nearby: Karasuma Oike and Downtown Kyoto
Special Features: Cozy café ambiance, plant-based menu, vegan options clearly marked

9. Falafel Garden – Middle Eastern Vegan Friendly Spot Near Ginkaku-ji

Craving something different from Japanese cuisine? Falafel Garden serves up fresh vegan food and vegetarian dishes inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. Their falafel wraps, taco rice, hummus platters, and crisp salads are a favorite for a refreshing, filling lunch meal or dinner near the Philosopher’s Path.

Highlights: Falafel wraps, hummus, vegan platter, chickpea salad
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥1,500
Nearby: Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Philosopher’s Path
Special Features: Outdoor seating, quick service, English menu available

10. Choice Café – Gluten-Free & Vegan Café in Kyoto’s Sanjo Area

As one of Kyoto’s few entirely gluten free and vegan cafés, Choice Café is a must-visit for health-conscious travelers. Their vegan sushi, rice noodles, and creamy desserts made with soy milk and plant-based ingredients are perfect for a light lunch or dessert break.

Highlights: Vegan sushi rolls, soy milk cheesecake, rice noodle bowls
Price Range: ¥1,200–¥1,800
Nearby: Sanjo Station and Kyoto City Hall
Special Features: 100% gluten-free, relaxing café interior, delicious and healthy vegan version of Japanese treats

Bonus Vegan Restaurants and Cafes in Kyoto

Mumokuteki Café & Foods – Cozy Spot with Vegan Ramen and Seasonal Dishes

Mumokuteki Café & Foods is a popular choice for vegans craving hearty meals made from fresh, seasonal vegetables. Their menu includes flavorful vegan ramen, wholesome buddha bowls, and a variety of vegetable-centric dishes inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine. The café’s relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on organic, locally sourced ingredients make it a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking authentic and healthy vegan food.

Highlights: Vegan ramen, buddha bowls, seasonal vegetable dishes, organic ingredients.
Price Range: Mid-range, 1,200–1,800 yen.
Nearby: Downtown Kyoto near Shijo-Kawaramachi.
Special Features: Vegan friendly, uses fresh seasonal produce, cozy ambiance.

Veganic To Go – Convenient Vegan Sushi and Buddha Bowls near Kyoto Station

Veganic To Go specializes in grab-and-go vegan options perfect for travelers or busy days. Their menu features creative vegan sushi rolls made with fresh vegetables and tofu, along with filling buddha bowls packed with wholesome grains and seasonal greens. Located close to Kyoto Station, this spot is ideal for a quick, nutritious meal on the move without compromising flavor or quality.

Highlights: Vegan sushi rolls, buddha bowls, fresh seasonal vegetables, quick service.
Price Range: Affordable, 900–1,300 yen.
Nearby: Near Kyoto Station, perfect for travelers.
Special Features: Vegan friendly, takeout available, quick and healthy meals.

Sora to Umi Café – Creative Vegan Menu with Bean Sprout Salad and Vegetable Tempura

Sora to Umi Café offers a thoughtfully curated vegan menu featuring classic Japanese dishes with a plant-based twist. Their specialties include a refreshing bean sprout salad, crispy vegetable tempura, and hearty rice bowls that highlight fresh, local ingredients. This café provides a tranquil atmosphere ideal for enjoying a peaceful lunch or relaxing afternoon tea with vegan desserts.

Highlights: Bean sprout salad, vegetable tempura, rice bowls, vegan desserts.
Price Range: Mid-range, 1,200–1,700 yen.
Nearby: Central Kyoto, easy access from popular tourist areas.
Special Features: Vegan friendly, seasonal ingredients, calm and cozy setting.

Kousagisha – Traditional Vegan and Gluten-Free Japanese Sweets

Kousagisha is a small, charming café specializing in authentic Japanese sweets made entirely vegan and often gluten free. Here, you can enjoy delicacies like vegan mochi, red bean paste desserts, and other traditional confections crafted with care. This place is perfect for those who want to indulge their sweet tooth without compromising dietary choices, all while experiencing genuine Japanese flavors.

Highlights: Vegan mochi, red bean desserts, gluten free options, traditional sweets.
Price Range: Affordable, 500–1,000 yen per dessert.
Nearby: Near Gion district, great for a sweet break during sightseeing.
Special Features: Vegan friendly, gluten free, authentic Japanese confectionery.

Tawawa – Casual Vegan Friendly Café with Vegan Burgers and Vegetable Curry

Tawawa is a laid-back café popular with locals for its satisfying vegan burgers, rich vegetable curry, and rotating seasonal vegan dishes. They focus on fresh, organic ingredients and simple yet flavorful preparations. The casual vibe makes it an excellent spot to relax after a day of exploring Kyoto, and the menu offers a comforting taste of home-style cooking with a vegan twist.

Highlights: Vegan burgers, vegetable curry, seasonal vegan dishes, organic ingredients.
Price Range: Affordable to mid-range, 1,000–1,500 yen.
Nearby: Downtown Kyoto, near popular shopping and dining areas.
Special Features: Vegan friendly, organic focus, casual and welcoming atmosphere.

Final Tips for Enjoying Vegan Food in Kyoto

• Look for “Shojin Ryori”: Traditional Buddhist vegan cuisine, often seasonal and fresh.
• Try Vegan Ramen at Kyoto Station for convenience and deliciousness.
• Visit Nishiki Market for vegan snacks like yuba (tofu skin) and pickled veggies.
• Ask for English menus; many restaurants offer them to help with ordering.
• Check out Downtown Kyoto for the highest concentration of vegan friendly restaurants.

FAQs

What is the must eat in Kyoto?

• Enjoy vegetarian dishes like buddha bowl and bean sprout salad
• Don’t miss traditional Japanese sweets made vegan
• Explore classic Japanese dishes prepared with seasonal vegetables and local veggies
• Visit vegan friendly restaurants for authentic Japanese cuisine
• Try vegan ramen and vegan sushi at top vegan restaurants in Kyoto

Is Japan ok for vegans?

Yes, Japan is increasingly welcoming for vegans. Kyoto especially shines with numerous vegan friendly restaurants and vegan restaurants offering a variety of vegan menu items like vegan ramen, vegan sushi, and plant-based versions of classic Japanese dishes. Many places now cater to vegetarian dining and offer gluten free and vegan options, making Japan a great destination for vegan foodies seeking delicious and authentic meals.

What Michelin star restaurant went vegan?

In Kyoto, several Michelin-starred restaurants have introduced vegan menus to accommodate the growing demand for plant-based dining. These great vegan restaurants serve exquisite delicious vegan food crafted from seasonal vegetables and soy meat alternatives, elevating traditional dishes like miso cutlet and vegetable tempura to new heights while maintaining their Michelin-star quality.

Do Japanese restaurants have vegan options?

Many Japanese restaurants now offer vegan options on their vegetarian menu, including dishes like udon noodles made with vegetable broth, vegan ramen uzu, and rice bowls featuring fresh local veggies. The rise of vegan friendly restaurants in Kyoto means you can enjoy a variety of vegetable dishes, traditional Japanese sweets, and innovative vegan versions of classic meals, often clearly marked on the vegan menu or highlighted for vegan foodies.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving authentic vegan ramen, don’t miss Vegan Ramen Uzu, located near Kyoto’s train station for easy access. After enjoying a hearty bowl, consider visiting the serene bamboo forest and exploring the nearby Tenryu Ji Temple for a peaceful cultural experience. Many of the best restaurants in Kyoto have branches close to this central location, making it convenient to plan your day. Be sure to use Google Maps to navigate between spots effortlessly and discover hidden gems around each Kyoto branch you visit. For a light snack, some vegan-friendly spots also offer fresh spring rolls that complement your dining experience perfectly.

From peaceful garden cafés to vegan ramen havens and cozy spots near Kyoto Station, this list of Kyoto vegetarian restaurants and vegan friendly restaurants will keep you full and satisfied during your trip. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, Kyoto's growing vegan food scene ensures that vegan foodies and vegetarians alike can enjoy authentic, delicious vegan food and traditional Japanese sweets—with plenty of vegan options to choose from.

Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, the variety of friendly restaurants in Kyoto ensures a delicious and welcoming dining experience for everyone.