Kyoto is one of the most magical places in Japan.
It is a city of temples, quiet streets, green tea, and traditions that go back hundreds of years. But for vegan travelers, it can also feel a little intimidating.
In this episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we explore how to enjoy Kyoto as a vegan with Alina, who lives in Japan and works in vegan hospitality.
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Japan but weren’t sure how easy it would be as a vegan, this episode is for you.
About Alina
Alina has been living in Japan since 2015 and understands both the culture and the challenges of vegan travel in the country.
She runs a vegan hospitality consulting business called Vegan Omotenashi, helping restaurants better serve vegan travelers.
In this episode, she shares what makes Kyoto special and how to experience it in a simple and enjoyable way.
Why Visit Kyoto?
Kyoto is often called the cultural heart of Japan.
Unlike Tokyo, which is fast and modern, Kyoto is slower, more traditional, and deeply connected to history.
Here, you can:
- Visit beautiful temples and shrines
- Walk through traditional streets
- See people wearing kimono
- Experience seasonal beauty like cherry blossoms and autumn leaves
Every season offers something different, making Kyoto a great destination all year round.
🍵 What Makes Kyoto Unique
Kyoto is famous for:
- Shrines and temples – including the iconic red torii gates
- Matcha (green tea) – used in drinks and desserts
- Traditional culture – from tea to clothing to architecture
- Geisha districts – especially in areas like Gion
It’s a place where old and new exist side by side.
🥢 Vegan Food in Kyoto
Vegan travel in Kyoto is possible—but it does require some planning.
You’ll find:
- Vegan ramen restaurants
- Shojin ryori (traditional Buddhist temple food)
- Matcha desserts (sometimes vegan, always check)
One place mentioned in the episode:
👉 UZU Ramen – known for its unique atmosphere and delicious vegan ramen
A Simple 2-Day Kyoto Itinerary
If you only have a short time in Kyoto, here’s an easy way to plan your trip.
Day 1: West Kyoto
- Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Explore nearby temples
- Try a traditional shojin ryori lunch
- Visit the Golden Temple (Kinkaku-ji)
- Enjoy vegan ramen for dinner
Day 2: East Kyoto
- Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine (famous torii gates)
- Explore the Higashiyama district
- Walk through traditional streets and shops
- Visit multiple temples and shrines
Etiquette Tips for Visiting Temples
When visiting temples and shrines in Kyoto:
- Be respectful and quiet
- Follow what locals are doing
- At shrines, bow and clap before praying
- Remove shoes when entering indoor areas
Simple respect goes a long way.
🌸 Travel Tips for Kyoto
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Book accommodation early during cherry blossom season
- Don’t try to see everything in one day
- Focus on one area at a time
Kyoto is best enjoyed slowly.
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In this episode we discuss
- How Alina ended up in Japan and what she is doing now
- The location of Kyoto
- The differences between Kyoto and Tokyo
- Reasons why visitors would want to go to Kyoto
- Some amazing itineraries for 48 hours in Kyoto
- Etiquette to consider when visiting shrines and temples
- Alina’s restaurant tips and recommendations
- How to enjoy the best of Kyoto as a vegan.
Learn more about what we talk about
- 10 Must-Visit Kyoto Shrines and Temples for First Timers
- Torii
- Gion Matsuri
- Japanese clothing
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Inside Kyoto
- UZU Ramen
- Higashiyama District
- Shojin Ryori: Japan’s Sophisticated Buddhist Cuisine
- Kansai region
- Rent a kimono or yukata at Okamoto in Kyoto
- Gion – Kyoto Travel – Japan Guide
- Nijo Castle
- Yasaka Shrine(close to Gion)
- Ain Soph Journey(vegan matcha pancakes, matcha tiramisu etc):
- Kiyomizu-Dera(especially in autumn)
- Nanzenji (JP only)
- Itadakizen (ramen, sushi)
Other World Vegan Travel content connected with this episode
- Handy Japanese Language Guide for Vegan Travelers to Japan
- S4 Ep17 | International School Teaching to Travel the World | Nina Radcliffe
- S3 Ep 9 | Aruba – A hidden vegan’s paradise | Meredith Marin
- S2 Ep15 | Developing More Empathy Through Long Term Travel | Lucas Spiegel
- S2 Ep 12 | Vegan Travel Highlights of Tokyo and Yokohama | Lauren Lasko
Connect with Alina
Alina Saikai is a vegan consultant and travel planner based in Japan, helping improve vegan options and experiences across the country.
You can connect with her on Instagram:
👉 @vege_li_tokyo
👉 @vegan_omotenashi
