Veganism is resurging in meat- and fish-centric Japan.
Veganism in Japan is slowly growing, fueled by environmental concerns and tourism, yet options remain limited and culturally challenging.
At 10:30 a.m. on a Thursday, the hustle of Shibuya is muted as tourists gather outside Vegan Sushi Tokyo, eager to dive into their unique twist on sushi. Kazue Maeda, one of the founders, says, “I’m Japanese, but I chose to go vegan six years ago for animal rights and environmental reasons.” Their menu features plant-based “egg,” “shrimp” tempura, and seaweed beads that mimic salmon roe. Even amid a city teeming with vegans, options are scarce, largely dominated by Western-style meals.
However, change is afoot. The Japanese government is promoting plant-based diets ahead of significant climate goals, sparking a surge in vegan establishments. Despite the stigma around veganism, mainly perceived as niche or foreign, more establishments are catering to local and tourist demands. The sushi scene is shifting slowly but surely, as cities like Kyoto also embrace sustainability through inclusive and adaptable vegan options. As Yamanaka puts it, “Vegan food isn’t just for a select few; it’s about creating an inclusive eating style for everyone.”
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