Kyoto is a food lover’s paradise, especially if you’re seeking vegan or vegetarian options. Its deep respect for nature and tradition means plant-based cuisine is woven into the culture, not just an afterthought. What makes these tours stand out is how they blend authentic Kyoto flavors with a compassionate approach to food. For example, the 3 Hour Vegan Walking Tour with Lunch offers a personal view of the city’s vegan scene, with visits to local shops and a delicious plant-based meal. Meanwhile, the Hidden Vegan Kyoto: Vegan & Local Food Journey takes you behind the scenes with passionate locals, including a rare meal in a traditional Kyoto machiya. These experiences are perfect for those who want to see Kyoto through vegan eyes—more than just eating, it’s about connecting with the community and its traditions.
If you’re interested in getting hands-on, the Vegan Ramen & Gyoza Cooking Class in Arashiyama lets you create your own flavorful ramen from scratch—dashi-free, of course. For travelers wanting a more relaxed, local vibe, the Kyoto Local Rice Bowl Cooking Class offers a friendly environment to learn and eat in a Japanese home. No matter your schedule or budget, there’s a plant-based Kyoto experience waiting for you.
1. 3 Hour Vegan Walking Tour with Lunch
At number 1, this private vegan walking tour combines sightseeing with tasting at several local shops, including a traditional townhouse and specialty stores. The tour kicks off at Shinsenen, where you’ll explore Kyoto from a vegan perspective, experiencing tastings at about four different shops. You’ll pass by a paper shop, a recycled kimono shop, and a pottery studio, all with a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into Kyoto’s culture and how it harmonizes with nature. The highlight is a vegan meal at a carefully selected restaurant, allowing you to sample authentic Kyoto flavors crafted for plant-based diets. The tour is flexible, lasting about 2 to 3 hours, and includes admission tickets to shops and the meal.
This experience is highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 from three reviews. Guests note that the guide’s local knowledge and the intimate setting make it special. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of walking, tasting, and cultural context, all tailored for vegans. The only potential drawback is that shop hours can vary, so plans might shift slightly.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a personalized, cultural-focused exploration of Kyoto’s vegan scene, perfect for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with great food.
2. Hidden Vegan Kyoto: Vegan & Local Food Journey with a Local
Number 2 on our list is the Hidden Vegan Kyoto experience, which emphasizes slow, meaningful tastes of the city guided by locals. For 2.5 hours, you’ll walk through Kyoto with a bilingual guide, visiting some of the city’s lesser-known spots. The real special feature is dining in a traditional machiya—a rare chance to sit in a centuries-old Kyoto townhouse for a full plant-based meal. All food is carefully curated for authenticity, and the tour focuses on community and local life.
This tour is highly rated at 5/5 based on one review, with visitors praising the personalized attention and the chance to connect with locals. It suits travelers looking for an intimate, authentic experience with a focus on community and tradition, especially if you want to avoid touristy areas. Because it’s small and guided by locals, it’s ideal for those who value culture.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed, authentic taste of Kyoto’s vegan scene and local lifestyle, this tour offers a warm, personable experience that’s hard to beat.
$126 per person
3. Vegan Ramen & Gyoza Cooking Class in Arashiyama, Kyoto Dashi-Free
Number 3 is the Vegan Ramen & Gyoza Cooking Class, which stands out because it’s a hands-on experience. Held in a cozy home in Arashiyama, this 2-hour class teaches you how to make two types of ramen—soy sauce and miso-based—using all plant-based ingredients. The broth layers are made from vegetables, mushrooms, and seaweed, creating deep flavors without any animal products. You’ll also learn how to craft vegan gyoza with satisfying texture and authentic taste.
Guests love the friendly, relaxed atmosphere and the detailed instructions, with reviews mentioning it as “a special and unique experience.” The class is suitable for all skill levels and includes tasting what you prepare, making it a practical way to bring Kyoto’s flavors home. The price of about $65.40 is quite reasonable for the personalized attention and the chance to learn traditional techniques.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, interactive cooking experience that results in delicious vegan dishes, this class is a top pick, especially for foodies eager to try Kyoto-style ramen.
4. Private 3 Hours VEGAN Walking Tour with Lunch
Ranking at number 4, this private vegan walking tour offers the same concept as the first but with a more personalized touch. It highlights Kyoto culture through the eyes of a vegan, with tastings at around four shops, including a focus on vegan food safety—a key concern for travelers worried about ingredient sourcing. The tour includes visits to local shops and a vegan meal, offering a flexible, private experience tailored to your interests.
While specific reviews aren’t provided, the focus on safety and a private setting make it especially appealing for travelers with dietary restrictions or those who want a bespoke experience. It’s suited for those seeking a more intimate, customized exploration of Kyoto’s vegan food scene.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a private, tailored introduction to Kyoto’s vegan dining and culture, this tour delivers a focused experience with the comfort of a private guide.
$135 per person
5. Kyoto Local Rice Bowl Cooking Class with Vegan/Vegetarian Option
Number 5 is a 2-hour local rice bowl cooking class, held in a traditional Japanese house near Shimogamo Shrine. The class starts with a 20-minute explanation of Kinugasa Don and other dishes, followed by hands-on cooking. You’ll prepare a typical Japanese rice bowl with vegan or vegetarian options, then enjoy eating together with your hosts. This experience emphasizes sharing local culture through food and interaction.
Though it currently has no reviews, the focus on local cuisine and the chance to cook in a traditional setting make it appealing. It’s ideal for those who want an immersive, community-focused experience that’s less structured but offers genuine insight into Kyoto’s everyday eating habits.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers eager to learn about local dishes in an authentic setting, especially if you prefer a more relaxed, communal experience.
$91.47 per person
How to Choose Your Kyoto Vegan & Vegetarian Tour
When selecting the right experience, consider your schedule, budget, and what kind of connection you want with Kyoto’s food scene. If you prefer a guided, cultural walk with tastings, the 3 Hour Vegan Walking Tour with Lunch offers a personalized introduction. For a more intimate, community-focused experience, the Hidden Vegan Kyoto food journey provides deep local insights. If hands-on cooking is your thing, the Vegan Ramen & Gyoza Class gives you practical skills and delicious results.
Budget-wise, the cooking class at about $65.40 is a good value, while the walking tours around $130-135 offer more comprehensive experiences. Timing-wise, weekday mornings or early afternoons usually work well, but check shop hours and class schedules ahead of booking. For those with dietary safety concerns, the private tour focusing on vegan food safety might be best.
Final Thoughts
Kyoto offers a delightful range of vegan and vegetarian experiences that go beyond just eating—these tours provide cultural insight, hands-on skills, and meaningful connections. If you’re looking for a guided walk that combines history, culture, and tasty bites, the 3 Hour Vegan Walking Tour is a fantastic choice. For those wanting a quiet, authentic experience with local guides, the Hidden Vegan Kyoto tour is ideal. And for culinary enthusiasts, the Vegan Ramen & Gyoza Cooking Class guarantees a fun, flavorful adventure.
To make the most of your trip, consider booking early—these popular experiences fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Whatever your preference, you’ll find a plant-based Kyoto tour that’s just right for you.