Shojin Ryori in Kyoto: A Taste of Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine

Kyoto Shojin Ryori: Best Buddhist Vegetarian Restaurants for Vegans

Introduction

When most travelers think of Japanese food, sushi or ramen often comes to mind. But in Kyoto, there is another culinary treasure perfect for vegan and vegetarian visitors — Shojin Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). Rooted in Zen practice, Shojin Ryori offers a mindful dining experience where seasonal vegetables, tofu, and mountain plants are transformed into beautifully arranged dishes. For a healthy, plant-based way to experience Japanese tradition, Kyoto is the best place to enjoy it.

What is Shojin Ryori?

Shojin Ryori originated in Buddhist temples as a way of practicing compassion and mindfulness. Prepared without meat or fish, it avoids strong flavors like garlic or onion and instead highlights the natural taste of each ingredient. It is nourishment with respect for life and harmony. Every meal feels like a quiet meditation — visually and spiritually satisfying.

Best Places to Try Shojin Ryori in Kyoto

① Shigetsu (篩月) — Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama

Enjoy seasonal dishes in tatami rooms overlooking Zen gardens inside a UNESCO World Heritage temple. Signature items include simmered vegetables, sesame tofu, and yuba. A memorable way to combine sightseeing and authentic temple cuisine.

Sample Menu Prices (2025 Update)

At Shigetsu, prices vary depending on the course you choose. The basic set is ¥3,800, the mid-range option is around ¥6,500, and the most elaborate course is about ¥9,000. In addition, there is a ¥500 garden admission fee per person, as the restaurant is located inside Tenryu-ji Temple.

Reservations at least three days in advance are recommended, but when I visited, I was able to dine without a reservation — so depending on the season, it may be possible to walk in.

 

Information

• 📍 Location: Inside Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama, Kyoto
• 📅 Closed: Thursday
• 🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Lunch only)
• 📞 Reservation (Phone): +81-75-882-9725
• 🌐 Reservation (Online): Available via the official website. Look for the button that says 「精進料理『篩月』予約フォーム」. The button text is in Japanese, but once you click, the form itself is available in English.　

② Junsei (順正) — Yudofu & Shojin Ryori near Nanzen-ji

Junsei is one of the most accessible places in Kyoto to enjoy Yudofu (hot tofu) and Shojin Ryori. Located near Nanzen-ji Temple, the restaurant is set in a historic villa with a beautiful Japanese garden, making it a relaxing stop for travelers. With an English website and easy online reservations, Junsei is especially convenient for overseas visitors.eal stop during a temple visit for vegetarian and vegan travelers.

Sample Menu Prices (2025 Update)

For visitors who want to enjoy Junsei’s Shojin Ryori-style dining with yudofu (hot tofu) and vegetable dishes only, there are three main course options: ¥3,630, ¥4,840, and ¥5,500 (tax included). Each course offers variations of tofu and seasonal vegetable preparations in a traditional setting.

Information

• 🕒 Hours:
• ・Lunch: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Last order 2:30 PM)
• ・Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Last order 7:00 PM)
• 📅 Closed: Wednesdays (open during busy tourist seasons)
• 📍 Location: 60 Kusakawa-cho, Nanzenji, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
• 📞 Reservation (Phone): +81-75-761-2311
• 🌐 Reservation (Online): Available via Official English Website

③ Ajirō (阿じろ 本店) — Refined Temple Dining near Myoshin-ji

Ajirō offers exquisite multi-course Shojin Ryori, beautifully presented and deeply rooted in Zen Buddhist vegetarian tradition. Located near Myōshin-ji Temple in northwest Kyoto, it is both prestigious and accessible—especially with its online reservation options. much as a meal.

Sample Menu Prices (2025 Update)

Prices at Ajirō vary depending on the course and season. Here are some examples to help you plan: Lunch bento from around ¥3,850, mid-range courses like the “Zen-mi Course” around ¥7,700, and more elaborate courses including Myōhō (with yuba) up to ¥11,000. Note that service charge and tax may be added separately.

information

• 🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last order: 6:00 PM)
• 📅 Closed: Wednesdays (open on public holidays)
• 📍 Location: 28-3 Hanazonoteranomae-cho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
• 📞 Reservation (Phone): +81-75-463-0221
• 🌐 Reservation (Online): Available via AutoReserve websiteAuto Reserve
• 💳 Payment Methods: Credit cards accepted (JCB, AMEX, etc.)

④ Daikokuji Ikkyū (大徳寺 一久) — Centuries of Tradition

Inside Daitoku-ji Temple, Ikkyū has served Shojin Ryori for over a century. Deeply connected with Zen practices, the menu conveys timeless Kyoto aesthetics and flavors.

Sample Menu Prices (2025 Update)

Prices for Shojin Ryori at Ikkyū begin at around ¥6,000 for a basic course, with more elaborate temple dining experiences ranging from ¥8,000 to ¥10,000. All meals feature traditional ingredients such as tofu, yuba, and seasonal vegetables, served in a tatami-room setting within the temple grounds. As preparation is careful and seating limited, advance reservation is essential.

Information

• 🕒 Hours: Shojin Ryori (dining): 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM entry (closing at 9:30 PM)
• 📅 Closed: Irregular holidays (in accordance with Daitoku-ji’s temple events)
• 📍 Location: 20 Shimomonzen-cho, Murasakino Daitokuji, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8215
• 📞 Reservation (Phone): +81-75-493-0019 (Shojin Ryori requires advance reservation)
• 📠 Fax: +81-75-491-1900
• 🌐 Reservation (Online): Available via AutoReserve (English support available)

⑤Hakunan (白雲庵) ー Unique Shojin Fucha Ryori from Uji

Hakunan specializes in Fucha Ryori, a unique style of Shojin Ryori introduced from Chinese Zen traditions in the 17th century at Manpuku-ji Temple in Uji. Unlike the individual servings of typical Shojin Ryori, Fucha Ryori is often shared in groups, featuring beautifully arranged vegetarian dishes served on large plates.e visitors.

Sample Menu Prices (2025 Update)

Prices at Hakunan start from around ¥6,000 per person for a standard Fucha Ryori course, with more elaborate options ranging from ¥8,000 to ¥12,000 depending on the season and group size. Since Fucha Ryori is often served for multiple guests at one table, it is especially enjoyable for families or small groups traveling together. Advance reservation is essential.

Information

• 🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 3:00 PM)
• 📅 Closed: Irregular (usually open daily, but closed on temple event days)
• 📍 Location: 34 Sanbanwari, Gokasho, Uji, Kyoto (within Manpuku-ji Temple grounds)
• 📞 Reservation (Phone): +81-774-32-0517 (advance reservation required)
• 🌐 Reservation (Online): Information available via Official Website (Japanese only, phone recommended for booking)

Tips for Visitors

• Reserve in advance, especially for Michelin-listed spots.
• Courses take 1–2 hours; plan accordingly.
• Typical price range: ¥3,000–¥10,000 per person.
• Many dishes are vegan, but confirm soup stock or seasoning in advance.
• Dress comfortably; some venues use tatami seating.

Conclusion

Shojin Ryori is more than food — an experience of mindfulness, balance, and beauty. For vegan and vegetarian travelers in Kyoto, it offers a rare chance to enjoy Japanese cuisine without compromise. Even if you’re not vegetarian, tasting Shojin Ryori reveals the depth of Kyoto’s food culture and the artistry of simplicity.
As someone who truly loves Shojin Ryori, I believe it’s one of the most beautiful ways to connect with Kyoto — deeply satisfying for the eyes, body, and spirit.

FAQ: Shojin Ryori in Kyoto

Q: Is Shojin Ryori completely vegan?
A: Most dishes are plant-based, but some broths or seasonings may vary. Always confirm in advance if you require strictly vegan options.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Typical courses range from ¥3,000–¥10,000 per person depending on season and venue.

Q: Do I need a reservation?
A: Yes, especially for Michelin-listed restaurants and weekends. Same-day walk-ins are often difficult.

Q: Can I combine a temple visit with lunch?
A: Absolutely. Shigetsu (Tenryu-ji), Okutan (Nanzen-ji), and Ikkyū (Daitoku-ji) pair perfectly with nearby temple walks.