Start your trip by exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo. In the morning, visit Meiji Shrine, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Take a walk in Yoyogi Park and enjoy the colorful autumn foliage. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world. As the evening sets in, head to Harajuku for unique shopping experiences and try delicious vegetarian street food.
Meiji Shrine: Free, 1-2 hours
Yoyogi Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Shibuya Crossing: Free, 1-2 hours
Harajuku: Varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Madoshima Cafe: A cozy cafe in Harajuku serving delicious vegetarian breakfast options such as vegan pancakes and tofu scramble. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 yen per person.
Tsukiji Sushi Sen: Located near Tsukiji Fish Market, this sushi restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian sushi rolls and sashimi options. Average cost for a meal is about 2000 yen per person.
Eat More Greens: A vegetarian restaurant in Shibuya serving a range of plant-based dishes including salads, pastas, and burgers. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 yen per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Kyoto
Take a morning train to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Start your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, the famous Golden Pavilion. Explore the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in the afternoon and enjoy a peaceful walk along the Hozu River. In the evening, visit Gion district to catch a glimpse of geisha culture and dine at vegetarian-friendly restaurants.
Kinkaku-ji: ¥400 (approximately $4), 1-2 hours
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Free, 1-2 hours
Hozu River: Free, 1-2 hours
Gion District: Varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a healthy and filling breakfast at Veg Out Kyoto. This cozy vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options like vegan pancakes and tofu scramble. A breakfast meal here will cost you around 1000 yen per person.
For lunch, head to Mikoan, a charming vegetarian restaurant that specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine. Enjoy a bento box filled with seasonal vegetable dishes and flavorful tofu. A satisfying lunch at Mikoan will cost you approximately 1500 yen per person.
End your day with a delicious dinner at Shigetsu, a renowned vegetarian restaurant located within Tenryu-ji Temple. Indulge in their multi-course Shojin Ryori dinner, which showcases exquisite and beautifully presented plant-based dishes. A dinner experience at Shigetsu will cost you around 5000 yen per person.
Thursday, October 19: Osaka
Take a day trip to Osaka, known for its vibrant street food scene. Start your day by visiting Osaka Castle and exploring its surrounding park. In the afternoon, venture to Dotonbori, a lively street filled with neon lights and delicious vegetarian options. Don't miss trying takoyaki, a popular local dish. As the evening approaches, visit Shinsekai area for retro vibes and affordable yet tasty local eats.
Osaka Castle: ¥600 (approximately $6), 2-3 hours
Dotonbori: Varies, 2-3 hours
Shinsekai: Varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Iseya Cafe in Osaka is a cozy vegetarian-friendly breakfast spot with a variety of menu options. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 yen per person.
For lunch, head to Natural House in Osaka, a vegetarian cafe and grocery store offering healthy and delicious meals. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 yen per person.
For dinner, Marufuku Udon in Osaka is a must-visit for their tasty and affordable udon noodles. Average cost for a meal is about 800 yen per person.
Friday, October 20: Hiroshima
Take a morning train to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park to learn about the city's history. Explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to gain insight into the tragic events of World War II. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Miyajima Island and marvel at the iconic floating Torii Gate. Enjoy a vegetarian-friendly lunch at one of the local restaurants and hike Mount Misen for breathtaking views. Return to Hiroshima in the evening and savor a relaxing dinner.
Peace Memorial Park: Free, 2-3 hours
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: ¥200 (approximately $2), 1-2 hours
Miyajima Island: Ferry fare - ¥360 (approximately $3.60), 4-6 hours
Mount Misen: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, visit Cafe Cinnamon located near Peace Memorial Park. This cozy cafe offers a variety of vegetarian options such as avocado toast and tofu scramble. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 yen per person.
For lunch, head to Vegetarian Ramen Bar located in Miyajima Island. This restaurant specializes in delicious vegetarian ramen bowls made with fresh seasonal vegetables. The average cost for a meal here is about 1000 yen per person.
For dinner, try Sanshuya Hiroshima Honten located in Hiroshima. This vegetarian-friendly restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, and udon noodles. The average cost for a meal here is about 1500 yen per person.
Saturday, October 21: Nara
Embark on a day trip to Nara, home to friendly wild deer and ancient temples. In the morning, visit Todaiji Temple and marvel at the Great Buddha statue. Explore Nara Park and interact with the deer roaming freely. In the afternoon, wander through the picturesque streets of Naramachi and visit traditional tea houses. Enjoy a vegetarian meal at one of the many Buddhist vegetarian restaurants in the area.
Buddhist Vegetarian Restaurants: Varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Sengyotei
A traditional Japanese breakfast spot in Nara offering a variety of vegetarian options, such as steamed rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables, and tofu dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 yen per person.
Lunch: Veggie Cafe Lohas
A cozy and relaxed vegetarian cafe located near Nara Park, serving delicious vegan and vegetarian meals like salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 1,200 yen per person.
Dinner: Yumenokoya Rokurinsha
A popular restaurant known for its flavorful vegetarian ramen bowls, made with a rich and savory soy-based broth and topped with fresh vegetables. The average cost for a meal is about 1,000 yen per person.
Sunday, October 22: Hakone
Travel to Hakone, a scenic area known for its hot springs and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Start your day by exploring the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing beautiful sculptures in a picturesque setting. Take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ashi and soak in the stunning natural surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Owakudani volcanic valley and try black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs. Wrap up the day by indulging in a vegetarian-friendly hot spring bath.
Lake Ashi Boat Cruise: ¥1,000 (approximately $10), 1-2 hours
Owakudani: Varies, 2-3 hours
Hot Spring Bath: Varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe & Books Wind Valley. This cozy cafe offers a variety of vegetarian options including freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 800 yen per person.
For lunch, try The Peace Cafe. This charming vegetarian restaurant offers a diverse menu with dishes such as vegetable curry and tofu stir-fry. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 1200 yen per person.
For dinner, visit Veggie Delight. This restaurant specializes in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, serving delicious dishes like tempeh stir-fry and vegetable sushi. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 1500 yen per person.
Monday, October 23: Tokyo
Return to Tokyo for some final exploration. In the morning, visit Tsukiji Fish Market and experience the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a sushi breakfast in one of the vegetarian-friendly sushi restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the historic Asakusa district and visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple. Take a leisurely walk along Nakamise Shopping Street for souvenirs and traditional snacks. In the evening, head to Odaiba for stunning views of the city skyline and enjoy a vegetarian dinner with a view.
Tsukiji Fish Market: Free, 2-3 hours
Sushi Breakfast: Varies, 1-2 hours
Asakusa: Free, 2-3 hours
Odaiba: Varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, visit Sushi Zanmai in Tsukiji Fish Market. This vegetarian-friendly sushi restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh and delicious sushi options. The average cost for a meal is about ￥1500 per person.
For lunch, try Naritaya Asakusa in the Asakusa district. They specialize in vegetarian ramen and offer a flavorful and satisfying meal. The average cost for a meal is about ￥1000 per person.
For dinner, head to The Sky Restaurant in Odaiba. This vegetarian-friendly restaurant offers stunning views of the city skyline while enjoying a delicious meal. The average cost for a meal is about ￥3000 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While in Tokyo, make sure to visit Yanaka district, a charming neighborhood known for its traditional atmosphere and historic temples. Explore the narrow streets, visit Yanaka Cemetery, and try some local street food. Another hidden gem is Kamakura, a coastal town known for its stunning beaches and the Great Buddha. Take a day trip to Kamakura and discover hidden shrines, hike through nature trails, and enjoy the coastal scenery.
Remember to check Kayak for the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Japan.