Eating tofu in Japan is a vastly different and superior experience to most tofu found in Western supermarkets – it’s elevated to a veritable art form here. Kyoto has some fantastic tofu restaurants in the city. These are some of our favourites.
Tofu cuisine in Kyoto: Guppy2416 / Shutterstock.com
Kyoto prides itself on its soy products, especially tofu. Mileage varies by the restaurant, but overall, terroir proves itself true in Japan: whether it’s yudofu (tofu hotpot), freshly made yuba (soymilk skin), or any variation on soy milk products, Kyoto is where you’ll find some of the nation’s finest in this genre of food.
A note: tofu restaurants aren’t necessarily synonymous with vegetarian food, as most restaurants here still rely on dashi (fish stock) as the backbone of their cooking. Some are happy to omit any animal products in the food given advance warning. In general, however, don’t expect all restaurants to be willing to adjust on the day – we recommend doing some research and checking in advance.
Eating tofu in Kyoto is unmissable when you’re here. These are some places we love in the city.
Tosuiro (Downtown Kyoto; expensive)
If you think you know tofu, think again! The artisans at this branch of a famed Kyoto tofu restaurant chain do more with tofu than you’d have thought possible.
Yudofu Sagano (Arashiyama; mid-range)
Yodofu Sagano is a great place to try that great Arashiyama Buddhist specialty: yudo (chunks of tofu simmered in broth).
More Restaurant Recommendations
See all our recommended restaurants in Kyoto.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
