Eating Well in Japan

Japan – and Tokyo in particular – is known for its world-class cuisine. However, if you have a restricted diet (vegetarian, vegan, halal, etc.), it can be very difficult to find good food in a restaurant. Most convenience stores (known as “konbini”) and grocery stores offer options that can satisfy you, but eating out is often a challenge.

However, several resources can help you! For example, check out this guide to eating vegetarian, vegan and halal in Japan. In it, you’ll find information about different ingredients frequently used in Japanese cooking, key phrases to memorise or keep written down in your phone, and suggestions for restaurants in Tokyo. Halal Gourmet also has a resource with a Google Maps page of halal restaurants and protected spaces to pray. The Tokyo Muslim Traveller’s Guide also has a similar book of restaurants, prayer spaces, hotels, and other facilities that might be useful during your travels.

For your convenience, we have collected a Google Maps list of restaurants near NAOJ (i.e., Chofu, Musashisakai, Mitaka and Kichijoji) that should have vegetarian and halal options. However, it’s not always clear from the menu. It’s best to check with your waiter to make sure you’re not surprised!