The basics
Vegetarian, vegan or pescatarian? The difference — and why all are good
These words describe different lines people draw — not a ranking. Here's what each means, plainly.
The simple definitions
- Vegetarian: no meat or fish. Most vegetarians eat eggs and dairy (lacto-ovo).
- Vegan: no animal products at all — no meat, fish, eggs, dairy, honey, or animal-derived ingredients.
- Pescatarian: no meat, but yes to fish and seafood (and usually eggs/dairy). Often a healthful, sustainability-minded, or transitional path.
- Flexitarian: mostly plant-based, with occasional meat or fish.
How it plays out in Japan
Japan is rich in plant foods — tofu, natto, edamame, seaweed, vegetables — so all of these diets can eat wonderfully here. Two things to watch:
- For vegetarians and vegans: the hidden trap is dashi (bonito/fish stock) in 'vegetable' dishes, plus egg, gelatin and lard. Our guides show you how to ask.
- For pescatarians: fish is everywhere and easy (sushi, sashimi, donburi), but watch for hidden pork or chicken in mixed dishes like gyoza and ramen.
Why every step counts
There's no exam and no perfect score. A pescatarian, a vegetarian and a vegan are all reducing harm and treading more lightly — at the pace that fits their life. Choosing plants even some of the time genuinely helps animals, the planet and often your health. Wherever you are on this spectrum, you belong.
See the reasons people choose this path, then find a place to eat.
Sources
FAQ
- What's the difference between vegetarian, vegan and pescatarian?
- Vegetarians avoid meat and fish (most eat eggs/dairy); vegans avoid all animal products; pescatarians avoid meat but eat fish/seafood (usually with eggs/dairy). None is 'better' — they're different lines on the same caring path.
- Which is easiest in Japan?
- All are workable thanks to tofu, soy, seaweed and vegetables. Pescatarians find fish everywhere; vegetarians and vegans mainly need to watch for hidden dashi (fish stock), egg and lard — our phrasebook and guides make it easy.