Fish and seafood yes, meat no — arguably the easiest diet in Japan.
Pescatarian heaven
If you eat fish and seafood but not meat, Japan is one of the easiest countries in the world. Sushi, sashimi, grilled and simmered fish, seafood donburi, tempura (seafood and vegetable) and much of izakaya cooking are naturally yours.
The few things to watch: ramen and gyoza usually contain pork, dashi is fish-based (fine for you, not for vegetarians), and mixed dishes like fried rice or hot pots can hide chicken or pork. Otherwise, order freely.
Use the filter for venues that shine for seafood, and the phrases below to dodge stray meat.
What to watch for in Japan
- Pork in ramen broth, gyoza and chashu
- Chicken or pork in fried rice, hot pots and mixed izakaya plates
- Meat-based stocks in some simmered dishes
FAQ
- Is Japanese food Pescatarian-friendly?
- No meat or poultry, but fish and seafood are fine. Japan is a paradise here — sushi, sashimi, grilled fish and seafood dominate — just watch for pork in broths and hidden meat in mixed dishes.
- What hidden ingredients should Pescatarian travelers watch for in Japan?
- Pork in ramen broth, gyoza and chashu / Chicken or pork in fried rice, hot pots and mixed izakaya plates / Meat-based stocks in some simmered dishes
- How do I say I'm Pescatarian in Japanese?
- 「肉と鶏肉は食べませんが、魚介は大丈夫です。」(Niku to toriniku wa tabemasen ga, gyokai wa daijōbu desu.)
Vegan Japan — impact, where to buy & events
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Pescatarian
肉と鶏肉は食べませんが、魚介は大丈夫です。
Niku to toriniku wa tabemasen ga, gyokai wa daijōbu desu.
I don't eat meat or poultry, but seafood is fine.