I Ate My Way Across Japan—These Were the Vegan Eats I Couldn’t Stop Thinking About

The article details the author's two-week vegan food adventure in Japan, primarily in Tokyo and Kyoto. Despite initial concerns about finding vegan-friendly options, the author discovered an abundance of incredible plant-based restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and fully vegan spots that exceeded expectations. Highlights of the trip included sampling vegan karaage, soba noodles, pastries, soy puddings, okonomiyaki, and various ramen dishes in both cities. The food experiences became an integral part of the cultural immersion, with each meal providing a glimpse into Japan's diverse culinary landscape.

Some standout recommendations in Tokyo included Izakaya Masaka for vegan karaage, Vegan Soba Toko Ayler for authentic soba noodles, and T's Tanatan Ramen for a variety of comforting ramen dishes. In Kyoto, top picks included Mumokuteki Cafe for Japanese-style vegetarian and vegan dishes, Moon & Back for standout ramen, and Fune Ethical Lifestyle for fermented rice porridge and probiotic-rich ingredients. Overall, the vegan food scene in Japan provided the author with unforgettable culinary experiences that enriched their travel adventure in the country.