Hey everyone! 👋
I’m in the middle of trying to add more vegetarian and vegan foods to my lifestyle here in Japan (specifically Kyoto!), but I’m still figuring out how to make it all work—especially with grocery shopping.
Still trying to crack the code on what to buy, where to find it, and how to cook something that doesn’t leave me reaching for snacks right after (lol). My biggest struggle? Figuring out what’s actually plant-based—those labels are out to get me 😅.
So yeah, I’d love to hear from you:
- Where do you usually shop for vegan/vegetarian groceries around here?
- Do you stick to one place or hop between a few? Where do you buy what?
- Got any beginner-friendly products or easy meal ideas you swear by?
Seriously, any tips, local store recs, favorite finds, or “I wish I knew this sooner” moments would be super appreciated. 🙏🌱
Thanks a ton in advance!
by DevaM90
4 comments
Kind Cafe (and whole food store), Higashiyama
I’ve been a member of excellent veggie delivery service that is meant to connect consumers directly to farmers. It is not corporate—it emerged out of social movements in the 70s. You get a box of really nice veggies every week, or less frequently if you like. The system is not in any sense smooth (everything is done on paper) but the quality is amazing and I think it’s not wildly expensive. I’ve especially enjoyed doing this because you do *not* get to pick what you get, so if a bunch of, like, daikon comes one week (in winter, because that’s when it’s in season) then you have to look up recipes and figure out how to cook it in a way that you enjoy. Happy to provide more info, with the caveat that it has no English support.
叶屋 two branches, one stop shop for veggies and fruits. Although some interesting competitors are popping up.
I’m vegan and on a budget permanently, and it’s no news that in Japan fresh veggies are very expensive. What has worked for me so far:
– Compare between local vegetables shops and supers and see what is more affordable where. It’s not very straightforward because there are genuine price differences depending on items, it’s a simple “here is cheaper”
– Be in the hunt for discounted items in both
– Gyomu
– In general, I just stick to couple of items and rotate around them. Like, bananas are generally cheap so I always have them; some times you can get your hands on discounted kiwis or oranges, and then you get them.
– Consume local products. I never eaten so much tofu than before coming here, it’s like 500% cheaper than in my country, and so tasty. I also included natto in my morning diet, and I know that’s a tough sell for many but I personally love it.
– Download Happy Cow to check for local stores and restaurants with vegan/vegetarian options