Vegan Archives - Savvy Tokyo

3 Easy Vegetarian Rice Cooker Recipes To Try

Maia Stewart — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Rice cookers are a staple of Japanese kitchens. After using them in China and now in Japan, I’ve discovered how versatile they can be. Many people believe that you can only make rice in a rice cooker, but just because the name tells you so doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with it. There are loads of simple dishes and drinks that can be made in a rice cooker in under an hour—and with minimum preparation. Here are three of my favorite vegetarian rice cooker recipes for you to try!

1. Red Sauce With Shiitake Mushrooms

An easy red sauce that can be served with most kinds of pasta.

Serves: 4 Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

128 g of dried shiitake mushrooms
1 tsp of pink Himalayan sea salt (regular iodized salt is okay, too!)
1 tsp of ground black pepper
2 tsp of oregano, basil and parsley
½ tsp of light brown sugar
2 cans of diced tomatoes
18 g tomato paste
2 tbsp of unsalted butter
64 g of white onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced

Instructions

Place the ingredients in the rice cooker bowl and stir until well combined.
Cook the red sauce for thirty minutes on the nikomi (boil, 煮込み) setting.
When the red sauce is done cooking, stir it with a spoon.
Add your favorite pasta to the sauce and serve.

*Make it vegan by replacing the butter with two tablespoons of olive oil and sweetening it with 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup instead of sugar.

2. Spiced French Toast Casserole With Azuki Spread

A great recipe that can be eaten for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Serves: 4 Cook time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

4 slices of white bread
4 eggs
375ml of soy milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mandarin orange juice
½ teaspoon of mandarin orange zest, cinnamon and nutmeg
2 tablespoons of light brown sugar (white sugar is okay, too!)

Azuki Spread

64 grams of azuki (Japanese red bean) paste
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon of light brown sugar
1/3 teaspoon of cinnamon

Instructions

With a sharp knife, cut the bread into small, square pieces.
Next, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, mandarin orange juice, mandarin orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and light brown sugar.
Then, place the bread into the same mixing bowl as the mixture. With a spoon, evenly coat the bread with the mixture.
Pour the bread into the rice cooker bowl and allow it to sit for five minutes.
While the bread is in the rice cooker, place the azuki paste, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
Stir the ingredients together until the azuki paste is light in color.
Evenly spread the paste over the bread.
Cook the casserole for 45 minutes on the nikomi (煮込み) setting, or until the bottom is browned and the spread has melted.
Serve while hot!

Optional: Top the casserole with fresh whipped cream.

3. Mulled Cabernet With Shiso Leaves

A simple spicy drink that can be kept warm for hours in a rice cooker.

Serves: 6 Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 bottle of Cabernet
3 star anise pods
2 pieces of cinnamon bark
64 grams of light brown sugar
3 shiso leaves
1 mandarin orange (peeled) (you will only use ½ of the mandarin orange)
2 pieces of ginger

Instructions

Take the mandarin orange peel and slice it lengthwise. You should have about eight slices of the peel.
In the rice cooker bowl, combine all of the ingredients with a spoon.
Cook the wine for twenty minutes on the nikomi (boil, 煮込み) setting.
When the mulled wine is finished, stir it together.
Serve it hot in a mug or heat-resistant cup.

Using these vegetarian rice cooker recipes? Share your photos with Savvy on Instagram with the hashtag #savvyrecipe

This article has been republished for 2025.

Chinese Food in Tokyo: From American-Style To Authentic Classics

The Savvy Team — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Looking for Chinese food in Tokyo? If you’re in the mood for a quick bowl of ramen at a local chain, a dim sum feast or an indulgent fine-dining experience, the city has it all.

Here’s a guide to some of the best Chinese food spots across different price ranges in Tokyo!

Popular Chinese Food Chains in Japan

For a uniquely Japanese take on Chinese cuisine, these nationwide chains offer reliable, budget-friendly options.

Bamiyan: A family-friendly chain serving a broad menu, including gyoza, ramen and sweet-and-sour pork.
Gyoza No Ohsho: Famous for its pan-fried dumplings and hearty Chinese-style set meals.
Hidakaya: A budget favorite, serving affordable ramen, fried rice and other classic Chinese dishes with a Japanese twist.

American-Style Chinese Food in Tokyo

For those craving orange chicken, General Tso’s chicken or chow mein, these are the spots bringing American Chinese flavors to Tokyo.

Panda Express: The famous U.S. chain, offering familiar favorites like Beijing Beef and Kung Pao Chicken.
Oscar American Chinese: A great spot for Americanized vegan Chinese comfort food in Tokyo.
Up Town Tokyo (Pop Up): A trendy pop-up serving creative takes on classic American-Chinese dishes. Check their Instagram for location updates!

Affordable Chinese Eateries

Looking for delicious Chinese food without breaking the bank? These beloved local spots deliver great flavors at unbeatable prices—less than ¥1,000 for lunch!

Gifuya

A nostalgic eatery dating back to 1947, Gifuya serves up hearty, authentic Chinese comfort food. Their most famous dish is the stir-fried wood ear mushroom and egg, packed with umami and crunch. Fried rice is another favorite; it is lightly seasoned yet full of rich flavors. Their counter seats are a bit tight, but the lively atmosphere makes it a fun place to dine.

Price: ~¥1,000
Hours: Mon-Wed: 9 a.m.-1 a.m., Thu-Sat: 9 a.m.-2 a.m.
Where: 1-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: 3-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station West Exit

Roshuho

This casual eatery recreates the feel of a 1970s Beijing tavern, offering flavorful stews, stir-fries and plenty of bar snacks that pair perfectly with drinks. Portions here are smaller and affordable, with dishes starting from just ¥200, so you can try a variety of flavors. Whether you’re here for garlicky pork belly, handmade dumplings or their famous all-you-can-drink Shaoxing wine for ¥1,000 an hour, this spot is all about enjoying good food in a relaxed atmosphere. Bonus: They serve a Chinese-style breakfast from 7 a.m.

Price: ~¥1,000
Hours: Breakfast: Daily 7 a.m.-10 a.m.; Lunch & Dinner: Mon-Fri: 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat: 12 p.m.-11 p.m., Sun & Public holidays: 12 p.m.-10 p.m.
Where: 5-10-12 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo
Access: 2-minute walk from JR Okachimachi Station

Chinese Cafe Eight

If you’re craving authentic Chinese flavors at unbeatable prices, Chinese Café Eight is the place to go. Open 24/7, this lively spot is famous for its Peking duck—expertly roasted in a traditional kiln and carved tableside for just ¥3,680 (serves 3-4). With over 300 dishes, including handmade dumplings from ¥190 and a variety of bold-flavored small plates, there’s plenty to explore. The atmosphere is as memorable as the food—let’s just say the decor has a playful twist.

Price: ~¥1,000 (Lunch); ¥2,000-¥3,000 (Dinner)
Hours: 24/7
Where: TakayamaLand Kaikan Bldg. 6F, 3-5-3, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Access: 1-minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station, 5 minutes from JR Shinjuku East
Other locations: Azabujuban, Aoyama, Ebisu, Akasaka, Sakae, Namba

Shokusai Yunnan Kakyo Beisen

Lighter than Sichuan food and more herb-forward than Cantonese, Yunnan cuisine offers a unique yet approachable taste. At Shokusai Yunnan, you can try mixian (round rice noodles), a staple from China’s southwestern province. A must-try is qiguo ji (steamed herbal chicken soup), slow-cooked with goji berries, jujube and Chinese herbs in a special clay pot. The broth is aromatic and umami-rich. They also serve steamed seafood hot pots and other herbal-infused dishes, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying introduction to this lesser-known regional cuisine.

Price: ~¥1,000 (Lunch); ¥2,000-¥5,000 (Dinner)
Hours: Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m.; Dinner: 5 p.m.-11 p.m.
Where: Espace Concert 1F, 3-3 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: 3-minute walk from Yotsuya-Sanchome Station on the Marunouchi Line.

Mid-Tier Chinese Restaurants

For those willing to spend a little more, these restaurants offer excellent Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices.

Tim Ho Wan

Tim Ho Wan is the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred dim sum spot, and it made its debut in Japan in 2018. Known for its freshly handmade dim sum, this Hong Kong-born favorite serves up crispy baked BBQ pork buns, shrimp dumplings and Ma Lai Koo (brown sugar sponge cake), all made from original recipes. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a takeaway, this is where you have to go for authentic, top-tier dim sum!

Price: ~¥1,500 (Lunch); ¥2,000-¥3,000 (Dinner)
Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Where: Hibiya Chanter Annex 1F, 1-2-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: 1-minute walk from Hibiya Station
Other locations: Tokyo Dome City LaQua, Shinjuku Southern Terrace

Sanchoko Sakekan

Specializing in bold, fiery Sichuan and Chongqing cuisine, this restaurant is known for its neon-lit, ultra-trendy interior inspired by modern Chinese “Guochao” design. One of the most famous dishes is Kaoyu (whole spicy grilled fish), a crispy, deep-fried river fish drenched in a bubbling, chili-packed broth. Other must-tries include Laziji (spicy fried chicken with chilies) and Fuqi Feipian (spicy beef offal salad). While the interior is very Instagrammable, the food is legitimately Sichuan-level spicy. If you love bold flavors and don’t mind a little heat, this is a great spot to experience the current trend in modern Chinese dining.

Price: ~¥2,000 (Lunch); ¥2,000-¥3,000 (Dinner)
Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Nissei Building 4F, 1-43-3 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Access: 2 minutes’ walk from Ikebukuro Station

Sumibi Yanroku Chuan Ariko

Specializing in lamb skewers or yang rou chuan, a street food favorite from northern China, this restaurant lets you grill your own skewers on an automatic rotating machine at your table, just like in China’s Yanbian region. The skewers, coated in a fragrant mix of cumin and chili, are juicy and smoky and pair perfectly with a cold beer. If you’re feeling like a more classic Chinese taste, try their famous sweet-and-sour pork. With a lively, Chinese and Korean crowd, it feels like a mini-trip abroad.

Price: ¥3,000-¥5,000
Hours: 1 p.m.-12 p.m.
Where: ABC Building 5F, 2-19-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: 2-minute walk from Higashi Shinjuku Station, 7-minute walk from JR Shin-Okubo Station, 8-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station East Exit

Dautsun

For Shanghai flavors, Dautsun is one of the most genuine spots in Tokyo. Signature dishes include sweet and tangy black vinegar spare ribs, eel stir-fry and Shanghai-style braised crab tofu. Their Shanghai cai fan (savory pork rice) and cong you ban mian (scallion oil noodles) are simple but packed with deep flavors. Located in a hidden third-floor space, it’s a bit intimidating to enter at first, but for those seeking an authentic Shanghai dining experience, it’s worth the adventure.

Price: ¥3,000-¥8,000
Hours: 5 p.m.-11 p.m.
Where: Nishigata Building 3F, 1-37-15 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Access: 2 minutes’ walk from Ikebukuro Station West Exit

High-End Chinese Dining

For an elegant dining experience, these luxurious Chinese restaurants offer gourmet dishes in beautiful settings.

Chinaroom

Chinaroom at Grand Hyatt Tokyo offers a stylish yet inviting take on Chinese fine dining. Its stunning red-themed space was designed by renowned NY-based designer Tony Chi. The menu features signature dishes like truffle xiaolongbao, kettle-baked Peking duck and ultra-fresh seafood straight from its live tanks. This chic venue regularly hosts special chef collaborations, bringing unique Chinese culinary expertise from around the world.

Price: ¥3,000-¥9,000 (Lunch); ¥12,000-¥22,000 (Dinner)
Hours: Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner: 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; Weekend and holidays Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (Closed Tuesday)
Where: Grand Hyatt Tokyo 6F, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: 3 minutes walk from Exit 1C via Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, 6 minutes walk from Exit 3 via Roppongi Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line

Chinese Cuisine Sawada

In its new Shin-Marunouchi Building location, Es Sawada offers a fresh take on refined Cantonese cuisine with a Japanese twist. Chef Shuhei Sawada, who trained in Hong Kong’s renowned Fook Lam Moon, has earned a Michelin star for six years straight with his creative yet approachable dishes. Must-tries include the crispy Hong Kong-style chicken, the rich and flavorful foie gras burger and the refreshing cold vermicelli with seasonal toppings.

Price: ~¥2,000 (Lunch); ¥10,000-¥30,000 (Dinner)
Hours: Lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Dinner: 5 p.m.-11 p.m.; Sundays and holidays: Dinner: 5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Where: 1-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: 2-minute walk from Tokyo Station

Karin Chinese Restaurant

For a refined yet welcoming take on Cantonese cuisine, Karin Chinese Restaurant at ANA InterContinental Tokyo offers everything from weekend Hong Kong-style dim sum to crispy chop suey over fried noodles and wok-fried shrimp in chili sauce. With a stylish yet inviting atmosphere and private dining options, Karin blends classic flavors with a touch of creativity, making every visit a little more exciting.

Price: ¥3,000-¥10,000 (Lunch); ¥10,000-¥30,000 (Dinner)
Hours: Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner: 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Weekend and holidays Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (Closed Tuesday)
Where: ANA InterContinental Tokyo 3F, 1-12-33 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: 1-minute walk from Exit 13 via Tameike-Sanno Station, 2-minute walk from Exit 3 via Roppongi-itchome Station

Fureika

Fureika is a beloved Chinese restaurant that’s been impressing food lovers for years. The stunning, traditional décor sets the stage for a memorable meal, where every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. There are no tricks or heavy seasonings here—just the pure, natural flavors of the freshest ingredients. Combining the boldness of Shanghai with the elegance of Cantonese cooking, Fureika offers a genuinely unique Chinese dining experience. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves great food in a warm, welcoming setting!

Price: ~¥2,500 (Lunch); ¥15,000-¥44,000 (Dinner)
Hours: Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; Dinner: 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m.
Where: 3-7-5 Higashi-Azabu Minato-ku Tokyo
Access: 1-minute walk from Azabu-Juban Station

Try one—or all—of these fantastic Chinese restaurants in Tokyo and discover your new favorite!

10 Online Shops for Vegan Food in Japan

Rachael Lucas — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 23:00:00 +0000

The number of vegan products available in Japan has been increasing steadily in recent years. Still, we might only find one good brand of non-dairy yogurt at one shop, then another good brand of fake meat at another, and so on. It can be difficult to shop when we want to limit our trips out of our homes, and get everything all in one go. However, the number of online shops for vegan food has been booming. Here are 10 options to consider.

1. Next Meats

The harami (skirt steak) or kalbi (Korean barbecue short ribs), also available at some Ito Yokado and Aeon supermarkets, are available for home delivery. Both are made with light flavoring to allow you to pair them with your favorite sauces easily. If you don’t have a grill at home, they cook up lightning fast in a frypan. Other options are also available for purchase, including gyudon (Japanese beef bowl), which is, of course, vegan.

2. Tengu Natural Foods

This long-running vegetarian shop from food importers began in 1988 and has a website that’s available in both English and Japanese. The owners also run the restaurant Alishan Cafe in Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture. Your order can be delivered anywhere in Japan, including to hotels (with permission from the facility). Try the OmniPork, also known as OmniMeat, Naturli block, or spread milk-free butter, or Amy’s vegan pizza, or California-style veggie burgers. You can try some of the company’s own Alishan brand of products, which includes organic peanut butter, textured soy protein, cookies or gyoza using OmniMeat.

3. Bio c’ Bon

The popular supermarket chain from France, focusing on organic items, currently has physical shops in Tokyo and the surrounding areas. The company also has an online shop with a vegan section and an excellent non-dairy milk section. Try the floral couscous or Isola Bio non-dairy milks.

4. Luna Burger

Good news for burger lovers: this popular food festival truck has begun selling burger kits for home delivery. The kits include patties with two kinds of sauces and buns, so you only have to provide vegetables and any other desired toppings.

5. Alchemist At Home

Don’t feel like cooking? Have no time? Try this easy meal service started by a wine bar in Niigata City. Foods list macros and are individually cooked, vacuum sealed and cool-shipped. The site has a vegetarian and vegan section. The website is available in both English and Japanese.

6. iHerb

An excellent source for vegan supplements, skincare, makeup, foods, snacks and much more. This site is popular with foreign residents in Japan and has frequent sales and free shipping with low minimum orders. The website is available in English, and you can email any questions in English or Japanese to their 24/7 customer support service. Searches using the keyword “vegan“ list hundreds of results. Although shipping is international, it takes approximately five to seven days to arrive.

7. Ambika Japan

This vegetarian and vegan chain of Indian grocery stores in Tokyo now marks its vegan options on the website. The site is in English, and you can also email in English with any questions. It stocks rice, spices, lentils, beans and dried fruits as well as boxed items like curries, dosa and idli mix.

8. Marin Food

The Marin Food vegan shredded cheese sometimes appears in supermarkets, but you can also pick it up in the vegan section of its online store, along with hotcakes and margarine—great for lazy mornings. Check out the English information about the products here.

9. Karuna

One of the OGs in Japan’s vegan food scene, Karuna serves up all your nostalgic Japanese favorites—reinvented in a plant-based way. From juicy soy hamburger steaks and crispy karaage to hearty curry and faux seafood, their lineup makes it easy to whip up comfort food at home without compromising your values (or flavor).

10. Marugoto Vegan

Stylish, curated and 100% plant-based, Marugoto Vegan is a treasure trove for the conscious shopper. Stock up on everything from dairy-free cheese and mock meats to gluten-free sweets, Japanese-style vegan ramen, and even chic reusable kitchenware. Perfect for filling both your pantry and your Pinterest board.

For all your vegetable shopping needs, check out Get Your Veg Fix In Tokyo With These Vegetable Delivery Boxes.

Does anything look tempting? Do you have any other online vegan food shops you’d recommend? Let us know in the comments!

Kanten: Japanese Superfood Recipes

Anisa Kazemi — Sun, 18 May 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Kanten, aka agar, is a Japanese superfood and jellying agent that was discovered by chance during the Edo period.

Kanten History

In 1685, Lord Shimazu of the Satsuma clan stayed at an inn near Kyoto called Minoya. The proprietor of the inn, Mino Tarozaemon, entertained his guests by serving them tokoroten, which is today a widespread jelly noodle dish; however, at the time, it was reserved solely for the rich. Its lengthy preparation required laboriously soaking, drying and boiling tengusa (algae) for several days.

Having prepared too much and unable to use the rest, Tarozaemon threw the leftovers in his snowy backyard. The next day, he was surprised to find the tokoroten frozen and turned into a thin, papery and dry substance.

This substance evolved into kanten, which was simpler to use, stock and transport than tengus. Soon enough, kanten became affordable enough to be readily available on the streets of old Edo, and now, modern-day Tokyo.

The Modern-Day Superfood

Today, Japanese people utilize kanten in numerous ways. Most commonly, it’s used to make wagashi (Japanese confectionary), though it can also be incorporated in savory dishes. There are four types of kanten: powder, stick, thread and fakes, all readily available at Japanese supermarkets.

Why Is Kanten Considered A Superfood?

What makes kanten unique for me and many others is that, unlike gelatin, it is entirely vegan. In addition, kanten has no taste and is semi-translucent. Also, unlike gelatin, it can be set at room temperature and produces a firmer texture. It’s also gentle on the digestive system and may help regulate bowel movements thanks to its high fiber content. Some studies suggest it may help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing down glucose absorption. Last but not least, it’s perfect for dieters—it has nearly zero calories and is 80 percent water-soluble fiber.

3 Easy Kenten Recipes

Here are three easy recipes using kanten powder that can be enjoyed on a hot summer’s day—or really any time of the year!

1. Recipe: Blueberry Rose Jelly

Ingredients

500ml water
2tsp kanten powder (1 sachet)
1 tsp rose water (optional)
5 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Handful of fresh blueberries

Instructions

In a small pot, bring the water, kanten powder and rose water to a boil, stirring constantly.
Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce heat to low while continuing to stir for two minutes.
After the two minutes is over, take off the heat, then mix in honey until fully dissolved.
Pour the mixture through a strainer into a desired mold (use a silicon muffin tray if you want to pop pudding/jelly out of its dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Serve with desired toppings.

2. Recipe: Matcha Soy Milk Pudding

Ingredients

250ml water
2 tsp kanten powder (1 sachet)
250ml matcha soy milk
1 heaped tbsp matcha powder
5 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Toppings of choice

Instructions

In a small pot, bring the water, kanten powder and matcha powder to a boil, stirring constantly.
Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce heat to low while continuing to stir for two minutes.
After the two minutes are up, remove the heat and mix in the matcha soy milk and honey until fully dissolved.
Pour the mixture through a strainer into a desired mold (use a silicon muffin tray if you want to pop pudding/jelly out of its dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Serve with desired toppings.

3. Recipe: Coffee Jelly

Ingredients

500ml water
2 tsp kanten powder (1 sachet)
4-6tsp instant coffee (depending on desirable strength)
5 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Toppings of choice

Instructions

In a small pot, bring the water, kanten powder and instant coffee to a boil, stirring constantly.
Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce heat to low while continuing to stir for two minutes.
After the two minutes are over, take off the heat, then mix in honey until it is fully dissolved.
Pour the mixture through a strainer into a desired mold (use a silicon muffin tray if you want to pop pudding/jelly out of its dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Serve with desired toppings.

Have you ever used this superfood, kanten? Feel free to share your recipe in the comments below!

10 Cruelty-Free Japanese Beauty Brands

Jessica Saabor — Sun, 04 May 2025 23:00:00 +0000

While the demand for ethically focused cosmetics has been steadily growing in the West, finding cruelty-free and vegan Japanese beauty brands can be a challenge. Not only is the cruelty-free beauty industry much smaller than in places like the US or Europe, but without clear product labelling and regulation standards, even identifying existing products that do not test on animals is difficult.

That’s why we’ve created this list of 10 cruelty-free Japanese beauty brands to cover makeup, skincare and haircare products. Cruelty-free can have many different meanings, but in this list, we are sharing cosmetic companies that have openly declared that they do not test on animals. Many of these brands also offer a selection of plant-based products, and we’ve made sure to include a list of the best 100% vegan Japanese beauty brands for the ultimate ethical beauty routine.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free Japanese Brands

1. Mirari

Mirari is a 100% vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand launched in 2020. Founded on the concept of creating products to reflect your inner beauty on the outside, Mirari’s name comes from the word mirror. It first came to market with a selection of moisturising sheet masks, but today it sells an array of Korean-inspired skincare products in high street stores and online. All ingredients are naturally derived with a concerted effort to source organically.

Ethos: Vegan and cruelty-free
Where to Buy: In stores or online

2. DAM DAM Tokyo

DAM DAM Tokyo is a proudly Japanese skincare company that believes life itself is an art form. Its array of skin, hair and body care products is domestically formulated in Japan using clinically proven ingredients like shiso leaf, phytic acid and Uji tea extract. DAM DAM Tokyo prides itself on a scientific approach to skincare, using advanced formulation technology to produce innovative and effective cosmetics.

Ethos: Vegan and cruelty-free
Where to Buy: In stores or online

3. La Vie Stella

La Vie Stella is all about natural beauty. It markets itself as a luxury vegan brand that strives to create organic beauty products to nourish and protect your skin. La Vie Stella promises never to use animal-derived ingredients while also avoiding synthetic ingredients, alcohol and palm oil. Its product range includes moisturizers, soaps and even a vegan UV milk sunscreen with SPF30/PA++ protection.

Ethos: Halal, vegan and cruelty-free
Where to Buy: In stores or online

Cruelty-Free Japanese Makeup Brands

4. MiMC

One of the largest and longest-standing cruelty-free beauty brands in Japan, MiMC creates organic cosmetics formulated around natural minerals and plant extracts. Its makeup centers on clean and fresh-faced beauty, with an extensive catalog of products that have you covered from primer to highlighter, as well as including tools like brushes, sponges and guashas.

Ethos: MiMC and its ingredient manufacturers do not test on animals
Where to Buy: In store or online

5. Naturaglacé

As the name suggests, Naturaglacé formulates products with 100% natural ingredients and never tests on animals. Its products range from base makeup that leaves the skin looking glowing and natural, to a selection of sheer lipsticks, blushes and eye shadows. Its makeup can be found in stores across Tokyo, including Hands, Biople and Cosme.

Ethos: No animal testing with some vegan products
Where to Buy: In store and online

Cruelty-Free Japanese Skincare Brands

6. Fancl

Fancl has made a name for itself across Japan for selling cosmetics and supplements that help restore your beauty on every level. Its star product is the mild cleansing oil, which has become one of the most popular cleansers in Japan and works to melt away makeup and prevent clogged pores. Fancl Beauty has also spent the last decade working to reduce its use of plastic by approximately 40% and opts for recycled materials when possible.

Ethos: No animal testing, but products are sold in China*
Where to Buy: In store and online

7. Shiro

For 16 years, Shiro has been dedicated to creating products derived from nature. From rice to ginger and flax, Shiro draws inspiration from the environment across its expansive range of products, which includes lotions, soaps and body care. The brand has a firm stance on cruelty-free beauty for itself and its subcontractors, with transparency regarding which products use non-vegan ingredients like beeswax.

Ethos: Shiro and its subcontractors do not test on animals, although products are sold in China*
Where to Buy: In store and online

Cruelty-Free Japanese Haircare Brands

8. Botanist

Botanist is a Japanese haircare brand that has grown to global success. It approaches haircare formulation by combining natural ingredients with innovative technology to create products that are good for the body, mind and world. Since launching, Botanist has been committed to sustainability, even launching the Botanist Foundation in 2023, whose mission is to create a more sustainable future.

Ethos: No animal testing and a commitment to sustainability
Where to Buy: In store and online

9. The Public Organic

The Public Organic’s original concept was to bring essential oil-based haircare products to the world. The Japanese beauty brand works with organic certification agencies to ensure all fragrances are derived from essential oils, as well as that their products are formulated with at least 90% natural ingredients and 10% organic ingredients.

Ethos: No animal testing or ingredients derived from animals, except beeswax and honey
Where to Buy: In store and online

10. Argelan

A house brand of Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Argelan is an environmentally conscious haircare line that has extended into skin and body care. The simple yet beautiful products come at an affordable price point, and are a minimum of 95% naturally derived. Argelan’s products are also all Japan-made, using domestic and sustainably sourced ingredients such as cypress oil, neroli flower and unshu mandarin.

Ethos: No animal testing or ingredients derived from animals, except beeswax and honey
Where to Buy: Matsumoto Kiyoshi Drug Stores

*In China, some cosmetics like sunscreen are required by law to be tested on animals, meaning a brand selling in physical stores in mainland China may have had to outsource animal testing to sell their products.

Have you tried any of these cruelty-free Japanese beauty brands before?

Vegan in Japan: An Impossible Task?

Rachael Lucas — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Are you enjoying a vegan lifestyle? Maybe you live overseas, and you’ve heard that it’s totally impossible to be vegan in Japan and that if you move or travel here, you’ll have no choice but to give up and start eating meat or fish again. Don’t let that stop you from living your vegan lifestyle or coming to Japan!

Luckily, with some knowledge and preparation, it’s possible not only to survive as a vegan in Japan but to get some terrific food as well. There are people who have been vegan here for decades or even since childhood. Let’s look at some challenges for vegans in Japan and discuss some great resources that’ll help you enjoy your best life here.

Challenge 1: Japanese Cuisine Heavily Relies On Fish For Flavor

Although there are various types of dashi (stock/broth)—including kombu dashi, a kelp stock made of seaweed—in practice the word dashi tends to refer to animal-based items like katsuo dashi, a skipjack tuna-based stock.

Savory homemade, prepackaged and restaurant foods often rely on this base and as a general rule, things like miso soup are fish-based. Tofu, which one might assume would be totally vegan-friendly, may arrive at the table with fish flakes on top. Even some restaurants that state they serve supposedly vegan shojin ryori food and shukubo temple lodgings—which are often recommended to vegans in Japan—sometimes use fish powder in their food.

What To Do?

Get Some Tools

The website and app HappyCow list vegan, vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants worldwide. It has over 300 vegan restaurants listed in Japan and close to 1,400 more vegetarian and vegan-friendly establishments. HappyCow also has an excellent top 10 list of vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Tokyo. Savvy Tokyo also has its own 10 must-visit restaurants serving vegan food in Tokyo article, which you should check out as well.

If you’re traveling here, consider using HappyCow to plan your trip and basing yourself in cities that are friendlier to vegans like Tokyo and Kyoto. And don’t forget to leave a review of the places you visit! There’s also a local website, called Vegewel, with no app, that lists vegan and vegetarian-friendly establishments in English and Japanese.

Preparation Is Key

If you’re planning to visit the countryside, where those types of restaurants can be in short supply, consider asking vegan-friendly restaurants in the larger cities to prepare bento lunch boxes for you to bring along.

Since Tokyo is massive, you can pick an area with a good concentration of vegan-friendly restaurants. The Tokyo Vegan/Vegetarian Friends Club on Facebook has some great suggestions for what parts of Tokyo to actually stay in. If you’ll be here for a long time, make sure that wherever you stay has kitchen facilities.

For a bit more relaxed trip or evening, without doing so much of the work to research on your own, consider booking a vegan tour through a service like Foodie Adventure Japan or Magical Trip.

Challenge 2: It’s Hard To Read Japanese Labels

Japanese ingredient lists are all in Japanese, and if there’s an English ingredient list on imported foods, it’s often covered up by the Japanese label. Even if you put in the years to get your kanji up to scratch, you’ll soon find that Japanese labels are quite vague. A rice ball in a convenience store that doesn’t list fish or seafood might contain them in small amounts without it being noted, as long as it doesn’t contain one of the top seven allergens. Palm oil can be listed only as vegetable oil. Customer service will often release that information, but you’ll generally need to call or write in using Japanese.

What To Do?

Start by checking out Savvy Tokyo’s guide on reading Japanese food labels. It provides a detailed kanji cheat sheet that you can take with you while you shop. For everyday food shopping, check out their guide to vegan products available in Japanese supermarkets.

The blog Is it Vegan? (Japan) also lists tons of information about known vegan options as well as things that look vegan but aren’t. The convenience stores section is the most popular area of the blog! There are also sections on festivals and vegan-friendly items at airports, fast food restaurants, hotels, chain cafes, supermarkets and much more. It is perfect to make sure you can eat something wherever you go.

Many Facebook groups are places to share this kind of information. One of the biggest is Vegan Japan ヴィーガン日本, with more than 26,000 members. There are also city-based and regional groups for Tokyo, Kyoto, Okinawa and many other areas.

Challenge 3: The Word “Vegan” Is Not In Widespread Use

Television shows and media in Japan often share stories of “plant-based” foods that consist largely of things like eggs, and if vegetarianism is mentioned, it may be mistakenly stated that vegetarians eat fish. If the story mentions veganism, the focus tends to be on it being a food choice made for health reasons. There is rarely attention paid to the ethical underpinnings of veganism.

For example, Aeon’s press release for the “Vegan Style” line of hair products stated that according to the Vegan Society of England, the definition of “vegan” is not eating meat, fish, egg, milk or other animal products. In actuality, the definition of veganism given on the Vegan Society website is:

“Veganism is a way of living which seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.“

What To Do?

Since not so many people are likely to recognize and understand the word vegan, when trying to get food, it’s probable you’ll have to describe what you don’t eat. Unfortunately, it’s rare people will understand what vegan means and they may think you are vegetarian, as well as think that vegetarians eat fish and fish powder.

If the language is a problem, it might be useful to carry a memo written in English and Japanese explaining in detail what you can and cannot eat. Here is an example of something you could carry around:

私はヴィーガンです。動物性の食材は食べません。ヴィーガン対応の料理や商品はありますか？

以下のものを使っていない料理があれば教えてください：

肉（牛肉、豚肉、鶏肉など）
魚（魚介類、カツオ出汁、煮干しなど）
卵
乳製品（牛乳、チーズ、バター、ヨーグルトなど）
はちみつ

Romaji Version:

Watashi wa vi-gan desu. Dōbutsusei no shokuzai wa tabemasen. Vi-gan taiō no ryōri ya shōhin wa arimasu ka?

Ika no mono o tsukatte inai ryōri ga areba oshiete kudasai:

Niku (gyūniku, butaniku, toriniku nado)
Sakana (gyokairui, katsuodashi, niboshi nado)
Tamago
Nyūseihin (gyūnyū, chīzu, batā, yōguruto nado)
Hachimitsu

English Translation

“I am vegan and do not eat animal products. Do you have any vegan dishes or products?

If you have any options without the following ingredients, please let me know:

Meat (beef, pork, chicken, etc.)
Fish (seafood, bonito broth, dried fish, etc.)
Eggs
Dairy (milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, etc.)
Honey

The Future Of Veganism in Japan

It is true that Japan’s vegan scene isn’t yet as well-developed as that of many other countries. In November 2019, a bipartisan federation of lawmakers and concerned groups began meeting at the national governmental level to consider the problem of Japan being vegan-unfriendly and to determine whether the government can do anything to help improve the situation.

On a personal level, once we’ve got the hang of living in Japan as vegans, what can we do to help Japan become more vegan-friendly in the years to come?

Buy Animal-Ingredient-Free Foods

Well-known chains like Royal Host (vegetable curry), Coco Ichibanya (veggie curry) and Ramen Kagetsu Arashi (vegan ramen) have all released animal-ingredient-free options in past years since the 2020 Olympics. Purchasing these items even now is a great way to encourage these sorts of things to be more widely available on the market in the future.

Sign Petitions

Vegan Consumer Japan created a petition to the government that has gained nearly 7,600 signatures. Please sign it to advocate for more vegan options and labeling.

Support Relevant Small Organizations

Consider supporting small organizations working hands-on in the field. Check out the NPO VegeProject Japan. It works on creating and labeling vegan options and works in cooperation with companies, shops and schools. Following its Instagram account is a great way to find out the newest products that have its vegan label. It takes donations as small as ¥500 or you can support the organization by becoming a member.

Contact The Consumer Affairs Agency

Lastly, if you’re a Japanese speaker, consider contacting the Consumer Affairs Agency of Japan directly to give your opinion about why current labeling laws aren’t sufficient for vegans.

Japan may not be the easiest place in the world to be vegan, but the scene is booming compared to a few years ago, and with preparation, you can enjoy visiting or living here and trying a lot of delicious foods as well!

This article has been updated for 2025.

English-Language Restaurant Reservation Sites in Japan

Sydney Seekford — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 23:00:00 +0000

During peak seasons, making dining reservations is borderline essential. Fortunately, there are more ways than ever to book Japan’s sought-after restaurants for a vacation or night out. To make sure you’re finding eateries that best fit your budget, dining style and travel needs, compare the pros and cons of these English-language restaurant reservation booking sites in Japan before you reserve!

1. Tabelog

Tabelog is the largest restaurant site in Japan. The multilingual version runs simply on browsers and can be accessed on a PC or smartphone. It lists hundreds of thousands of restaurants and relies on user feedback to create new listings. A Tabelog 3.0+ rating is considered very good. It’s a good option for finding food in under-touristed destinations.

Pros:

It has any genre of food and even omiyage (souvenirs)
Great for casual/family reservations
Covers the entire country and all price points
Well-respected and widely recognized locally
User-powered, with real pictures of food and interior for most eateries
No account needed to reserve

Cons:

The reservation process is clunky and time-consuming, plus fees.
Compared to the number of listed restaurants, the English site offers limited reservation options.
English-language users cannot participate in ratings/account creation
Overwhelming options

Try it yourself: https://tabelog.com/en/

2. GMO Omakase Japan: Eatinerary

Eatinerary is the English-language offshoot of GMO’s Omakase booking service. Eatinerary focuses on fine dining options and is an official partner of the Michelin Guide. Thanks to exclusive contracts and partnerships, sought-after reservations at extremely popular restaurants can sometimes be booked immediately.

Pros:

Michelin Guide Partner, internationally respected
Vetted eateries, high-quality options
Guaranteed seats at some hard-to-book restaurants

Cons:

No keyword search can make finding desired restaurants challenging
Reservation requests aren’t guaranteed in all cases
Limited to fine dining options

Try it yourself: https://omakaseje.com/

3. Savor Japan

Savor Japan, by Hitosara, a part of the USEN corporation, is widely respected by chefs and goes in-depth to introduce the people behind the cuisine. You can filter restaurants by whether they offer Western cutlery or have English-speaking staff on site. Chef-recommended restaurants are an interesting feature of this site, which the official Japanese Tourism Bureau backs.

Pros:

In-depth information about restaurants, chefs, regions and more.
Many historically relevant restaurants for a culture deep-dive
A lot of interesting content

Cons:

The website is busy and can be intimidating to navigate
Better suited to intense foodies, at-a-glance searching can be daunting
Mostly high-end restaurants

Try it yourself: https://savorjapan.com/

4. TableCheck

Tablecheck has quickly expanded across the globe. It is definitely more of a booking site than a tourist-focused platform. Tablecheck has partnerships with Visa, allowing the service to offer discounts and an integrated payment system for contactless payments—you can just eat and leave. However, some restaurants actually require an upfront payment. Restaurants register and pay for Tablecheck as a management service, meaning that the restaurant manages courses, seats, booking availability and so on directly from Tablecheck’s admin side.

Pros:

All-in-one search-booking-payment service
Sleek modern design with iPhone app and global presence
Restaurants manage their pages themselves
No need to register for an account

Cons:

Only paid, opt-in restaurants are available
Search functions work significantly better on desktop than on mobile
Mostly higher-end restaurants, less catered to tourists

Try it yourself: https://www.tablecheck.com/en/japan

5. Japan byFood

This service is built by foreigners, for foreigners. Each of the nearly 13,500 restaurants listed on byFood has been personally contacted. It features listings and descriptions written by actual humans instead of auto-translate. Japan byFood is also a tour platform. It partners with locals to offer exclusive experiences that go beyond restaurants. Although byFood charges a fee to book with them, each restaurant booking donates meals to underprivileged countries.

Pros:

All price ranges represented, good for group bookings
Can also book tours/experiences
Foreigner-Japanese co-owned company
Donates to charity

Cons:

Smaller restaurant pool than some Japanese brands
Booking fees and upfront costs
Reservations are not guaranteed in all cases
Heavily tourism-focused brand

Try it yourself: https://www.byfood.com/

6. Pocket Concierge

Pocket Concierge features in-depth histories, stories and delicious imagery (both visual and verbal) for every restaurant on its site. It’s unique because it offers the option of being put on a waitlist instead of getting an outright “no” from popular restaurants and publicly announced collaborations/events. The company is backed by American Express.

Pros:

Beautiful, educational restaurant introductions
Waitlist options at high-quality, vetted venues
Highlights special events and collaborations
Integrated payments

Cons:

Credit card pre-registration is needed
Only high-end restaurants
Reservations are not guaranteed in all cases
Limited locations (Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto only)

Try it yourself: https://pocket-concierge.jp/en

7. Tableall

Tableall prides itself on guaranteed booking reservations by purchasing seats at partner restaurants ahead of time. In exchange, users need to sign up for membership and pay a substantial booking fee. Tableall is Singapore-based but has been run by a Japanese national since 2016. Restaurant listings read more like articles and are likely to leave diners salivating before they ever click reserve.

Pros:

Beautiful, educational restaurant introductions
Immediate reservations
Great, captivating English

Cons:

High up-front costs
Limited selection
Only high-end restaurants
No keyword search function for pinpointing

Try it yourself: https://www.tableall.com/

8. Foodies Reserve

Foodies Reserve was launched at the end of 2024 and is still widely unknown. It was founded by Takashi Sugai, who also launched the domestic, invitation-only gourmet reservation-sharing site Foodies Prime. Foodies Reserve holds some exclusive reservation openings for notoriously hard-to-book restaurants and partners directly to offer locally coveted seats at Japan’s best-kept secrets.

Pros:

Restaurants not available anywhere else/secret offerings
The peak of what’s new in restaurants
Easy to discover new restaurants at many price points
Hard-to-book restaurants made available

Cons:

Limited offerings and locations
The site uses auto-translated English, not a seamless experience
Still too small to judge the overall quality

Try it yourself: https://www.foodies-reserve.com/en

Bonus: Eat Tokyo

Eat Tokyo is a multi-pronged service by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, including a “Search Page for Restaurants with Multilingual Menus,” which benefits restaurants as much as users. Eat Tokyo verifies self-registered restaurants and details and lists them on its search board. In exchange, the restaurants get free access to all-you-can-translate printable and digital multilingual menus using official translations. Although it’s not actually possible to reserve restaurants on this site, the Eat Japan library is deployed on public GO Japan kiosks and is a handy search tool.

Pros:

Halal, Vegan and Allergy-friendly complete menus
Officially backed by the Tokyo Government
Offers support to restaurants on the backend
All price ranges represented

Cons:

Can’t actually make reservations
The site is incredibly difficult to get to—impossible to stumble upon
Can be hard to actually find what you’re looking for (major areas like Nakameguro for example, are missing) and only works in Tokyo

Try it yourself: https://menu-tokyo.jp/

Final Remarks

Each of these English-language restaurant reservation services in Japan offers unique restaurants, services and particulars. There is no one “right service,” but after considering the pros and cons of each, which one are you most likely to use?

Vegan Products Available In Japanese Supermarkets

Rachel Crane — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Sometimes buying vegan products in Japanese supermarkets can feel like an impossible task. Plant-based diets are far from mainstream, and many Japanese people are unfamiliar with what the word ‘vegan’ actually means. Even Japanese dishes centered on plant-based ingredients are frequently seasoned with dashi (fish stock) and other ingredients derived from animal products.

All of this can make shopping for vegan food in Japanese supermarkets a considerable challenge, especially since some vegan-friendly products are not labeled as such. But with a little research, it is possible to find what you’re looking for. This guide to vegan supermarket shopping is here to get you started.

Where To Shop For Vegan Food Products

There are a few go-to supermarkets and food stores in Japan that all vegans should know.

Natural House: An organic supermarket chain with a wider range of vegan ingredients and ready meals than mainstream supermarkets.
Natural Lawson: A branch of Lawson convenience stores featuring products made from natural ingredients, including vegan snacks.
Import and International stores: Stores such as Bio c’ Bon, Seijo Ishii, Kaldi Coffee and Jupiter Coffee are great places to find vegan snacks and ingredients.
Online stores: Most of the above stores offer online shopping and home delivery, while websites like iHerb and Amazon Japan are also great places to source vegan food products.

Check out our article that introduces online shops to buy vegan food for more.

Supermarket Staples

When you’re unable to access a more vegan-friendly food store like the ones listed above, there are still plenty of vegan staples you can pick up at mainstream Japanese supermarket chains like Aeon, Seiyu and Gyomu Super. Here are a few plant-based food items you can stock up on at most Japanese supermarkets.

Tofu and tempeh
Mixed beans and nuts
Soy milk, soy yogurt, soy ice cream
Almond milk and oat milk
Miso soup (check the label to make sure it doesn’t contain fish stock)
Rice, noodles and pasta
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Soy sauce, mirin and wine vinegar

Ready-made/Pre-made Vegan Products

While home cooking is a necessary part of the vegan lifestyle in Japan, there will always be days when you don’t feel like making a recipe from scratch. It can be very difficult to find ready-made vegan foods outside of organic or import stores, but there are still a few plant-based meals, snacks and sides at most supermarkets that are suitable for vegans.

The blog Is it Vegan? Japan and the Facebook group Vegan Supermarket Finds in Japan are great resources for scouting these elusive vegan-friendly products. Here’s a roundup of some of the most widely available.

Curries

Japanese curries are a home-cooking classic, and many curry brands sell plant-based products. The easiest vegan curries to find are allergen-free varieties such as Curry Prince Vegetable and Chickpea Curry, which are aimed at children with allergies. If these are a little mild for your taste, you can always add a dash of S&B Spicy Curry Powder, which is widely available and completely vegan!

Minasama Omitsuki Chickpea and Vegetable Chana Masala Curry | ¥192

Topvalu Curry Made with Vegetables and Rice Puree | ¥192

Curry Prince Vegetable and Chickpea Curry | ¥140

S&B Spicy Curry Powder | ¥578

Pre-made Ingredients and Ramen

Vegan-ready meals are not always easy to find, but one exception is Japchae, a Korean dish of vegetables and glass noodles that is often totally plant-based. Miso ramen and soups can also be made without animal products, but be sure to check the packaging carefully. If full-ready meals aren’t available, you can sometimes find sauce packets that are suitable for vegans instead.

Marukome Daizu Labo Japchae | ¥410 approx.

Coop Miso Ramen | ¥267

Meat Substitutes

Soy meat is sold widely in Japanese supermarkets, but not all meat substitutes are created equal. Some are made with egg or other animal products, so look out for these totally plant-based alternatives.

Marukome Soy Meat Mince Type | ¥300

Asahico Tofu Protein Minced Meat | ¥321

Topvalu Vegetive Soybean Mince | ¥198

Pizzas, Naans and Tortillas

While vegan pizzas complete with toppings are rare in Japanese supermarkets, you can easily pick up a vegan pizza base and make your own, especially with Italian-style tomato sauces sold in most supermarkets and soy-based cheese alternatives on the rise. Vegan naan breads and tortillas are also easy to find.

Del Sol Vegetable Pizza | ¥413

Del Sol Napoli Style Pizza Crust | ¥376

Beyond Tofu Pizza Shred | ¥387

Topvalu Hand Stretched Naan | ¥198

Topvalu Tortillas | ¥258

Frozen Foods

You can find plenty of potato-based sides, such as French fries and hash browns, in the frozen aisles of most Japanese supermarkets. Some frozen mochi (rice cake) products are also suitable for vegans.

Topvalu Shoestring French Fries | ¥348

Topvalu Lightly Salted Hokkaido Potato Hash | ¥321

Gyomu Supa Mini Rosti | ¥250 approx.

Gyomu Supa Thinly Baked Mochi with Spring Onion | ¥550 approx.

Snacks

Vegan snacks are plentiful at most Japanese supermarkets and convenience stores. Potato chips that are plain salted or nori shio (seaweed salt) flavor are usually vegan-friendly, along with mixed nuts, dried fruit and dried sweet potato sticks. Plant-based Soyjoy bars are also vegan (be careful to avoid the ordinary Soyjoy bars, which contain dairy), along with plenty of other sweet treats.

Calbee Lightly Salted Potato Chips 60g | ¥172

Amanoya Bite-Sized Kabukiage 72g | ¥108

Calbee Miino 28g | ¥148

Soyjoy Plant-Based | ¥130

Nabisco Oreos 10 pcs | ¥178

Searching for vegan products in Japanese supermarkets can be daunting, but with the right resources and a little patience, you can find many great vegan ingredients.

Do you know about any vegan supermarket staples that we didn’t include here? Let us know in the comments!

5 Healthy Restaurants in Azabudai Hills

Victoria Lindsay — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Nestled in the heart of Toranomon in Tokyo’s Minato ward, the recently opened Azabudai Hills complex is one of the most exciting places to visit in Tokyo right now. Alongside various restaurants, cafes, shops and art galleries, the brand new TeamLab Borderless digital art museum will open in Azabudai Hills too.

If you were lucky enough to secure tickets to TeamLab Borderless or want to visit to take in the breathtaking architecture, which includes the tallest building in Japan, one thing is for certain: you’ll need some food to fuel your adventure. When it comes to food, Azabudai Hills does not disappoint, especially when it comes to eateries that cater to visitors who are more health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, such as those who are vegan or gluten-free.

Below are a few of our favorite eateries and restaurants in Azabudai Hills that are both crave-worthy and healthy. Don’t forget to bookmark these while you plan your outing to Toramomon!

1. Alchemy

For plant-based meals surrounded by chic decor, look no further than Alchemy. Originally from Bali, the Tokyo location of this vegan restaurant has a sizeable menu that includes everything from vegetable-focused entrees to dairy-free desserts. It has more seating than some of the other cafes in the Azabudai Hills complex, so it may be less of a wait to get in if lines are long during peak mealtimes.

We recommend: The create-your-own salad or bowl bar. You can choose your greens, grains and toppings just the way you like it.
Location: Azabudai Hills Tower Plaza on Floor 4

2. Tokyo Juice

If walking around the massive Azabudai Hills complex is making you thirsty, Tokyo Juice has you covered. As the name suggests, this cafe is a perfect pit stop for fresh and pre-bottled juices or nutrient-packed smoothies that are so good, you’ll forget they’re good for you too. They also have a food menu and are open early for those needing something for breakfast.

We recommend: The smoothie bowls, such as the acai bowl, for a healthy breakfast or lunch.
Location: Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower on Floor 1

3. 8ablish

Interested in a plant-based meal on the terrace? Stroll on over to 8ablish, a vegan restaurant with a great outdoor seating area where you can relax and enjoy the architecture of the complex. In addition to their lunch and dinner menu, those looking for gluten and dairy-free goodies should pick up one of their vegan, wheat-free muffins for a snack.

We recommend: The Buddha bowl entrée with soup. It’s chock full of fresh vegetables for those wanting a lighter lunch.
Location: Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza A on Floor 2

4. Shodai Bio Nature

I understand it might seem strange to add a dessert and confectionary shop to a healthy restaurant list but hear me out: this is no ordinary sweets shop. At Shodai Bio Nature chocolates, cookies, cakes, ice cream and other sweet treats are made with organic, vegan and gluten-free ingredients. These delicious desserts are great for those with dietary restrictions or allergies as products are clearly marked with labels indicating their ingredients and which diets they might be suitable for.

We recommend: That chocolate lovers, try their signature petal chocolate. Each petal of chocolate is perfectly portioned and full of delicious flavors like white chocolate jasmine, strawberry rose or mint. If you’re vegan, try one of their vegan chocolate bars in creative flavors such as white chocolate with cornflakes.
Location: Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B on Floor B1

5. Nakamura Tokichi Azabudai

While coffee can be part of a healthy diet, it may not be a good fit for some due to excess sugar in their preferred specialty lattes or a sensitivity to the caffeine it contains. For those looking for a coffee substitute that is more in line with their health goals, I often recommend switching to tea such as matcha.

Matcha, which is made from finely ground green tea leaves, is especially rich in compounds called catechins. Catechins have been shown to have a powerful antioxidant effect and can protect against cellular damage. One of the most potent catechins in matcha is called epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG. Research has shown that the EGCG in matcha is linked to many health benefits ranging from cancer prevention, weight loss support and increased cognitive performance.

If you’re interested in giving matcha a try, then swing by Nakamura Tokichi for all things green tea. The Azabudai outpost of this Uji-based matcha shop focuses on uji matcha and hojicha (roasted green tea). It contains both a shop where you can purchase tea and tea-containing sweets—like Uji matcha chocolate—as well as a small café that serves tea drinks.

We recommend: Their matcha with milk—for a latte-type drink. Also, their hojicha tea is delicious and is available hot or iced.
Location: Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B on Floor B1

Which of these healthy restaurants in Azabudai Hills do you want to try first?

Japanese Superfoods: Konjac

Luisa Heenan — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 23:00:00 +0000

You can find foods made from the Japanese konjac yam in the cool section of the supermarket, usually near the tofu and natto. They come in a variety of forms, most notably in a block or as stringy white noodles known as shirataki (しらたき).

It is believed that konjac was introduced into Japan in the sixth century as a medicinal food, but it is now a regular ingredient in Japanese home cooking, appearing often in dishes such as sukiyaki and oden.

Shirataki Noodles

Shirataki noodles

Shirataki noodles are very low in calories (about five per 100 grams), low in carbohydrates, gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free and sugar-free. They are comprised of up to 97 percent water and the remaining three percent is a water-soluble indigestible fiber called glucomannan. This glucomannan fiber has been made into a supplement form and is the key to the health-providing properties of this food fiber.

It is often known in Japan as a “broom for the stomach,” as it keeps the intestines clean and helps with bowel movements. Due to the fiber content and low carbohydrate levels, it can also help control blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol, so it is diabetic and heart-friendly. The noodles also expand in your stomach, giving you a feeling of fullness, which can be helpful in aiding weight loss.

I find it difficult to call this a superfood, as there is basically no nutritional content in it. Therefore, it’s important not to eat these on their own! However, it is a great food for those who wish to find a substitute for carbohydrate-heavy recipes or as an easy ingredient to add to dishes to gain the health benefits of fiber.

Due to their high water content, shirataki are almost completely tasteless and will soak up any flavors that you cook them with, making them a very versatile ingredient. You could substitute them for any regular pasta or noodle dish, such as low-carb ramen, spaghetti Bolognese or my healthy pad thai recipe. Just make sure you don’t skip the preparation step for shirataki noodles, as the smell can be a little off-putting initially.

Pesto Shirataki Pasta Recipe

Serves 1

Gluten-free/dairy-free / sugar-free / vegan / paleo

What You Need

100-gram packet of shirataki noodles
1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or boiled
2 tablespoons vegan pesto (recipe below)

Vegan Pesto

1 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons lemon juice
¼ cup cashews or walnuts
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

What To Do

Place all vegan pesto ingredients into a small food processor or blender and whiz until smooth.
Rinse the shirataki noodles in a strainer under cold running water until the smell disappears. This could take up to five minutes. Strain out as much water as possible and dry the remaining excess on paper towels. At this stage, you may want to chop the noodles into smaller pieces to make them easier to work with.
Place shirataki, two tablespoons of pesto, and cooked broccoli in a bowl and toss until well combined. Serve sprinkled with dukkah for extra crunch. It can be served warm or cold.

You can also be creative with this dish and add in some creamy avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, green onions or some chicken for some extra protein.

You will likely have a bit of pesto left over, so store it covered in the fridge. It is delicious mixed with scrambled eggs or in a veggie wrap or sandwich.

Would you try this Japanese konjac recipe? If you do, tag us on your social media; we’d love to share it!

Tokyo’s Best Vegan Christmas Cakes 2022

The Savvy Team — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 01:00:00 +0000