Discovering a Sustainable Future from Japan

Experience tradition and hospitality at halal-friendly dining in Kyoto

Kyoto is a city where you can experience both the authentic traditions of Japan and globally modernized hospitality, known as “Omotenashi.” Discover the vibrant flavors of Japan with our guide to halal-friendly restaurants in and around Kyoto!

1. [Wagyu and Kaiseki style full-course] Kyo Ryori Honke Tankuma Honten

The restaurant earned its certification as a Muslim Friendly Restaurant thanks to the dedication of its young owner, who went to great lengths to ensure that the Kyo cuisine served was delicious and free of alcoholic seasoning to cater to Muslim customers. Halal and vegetarian Kaiseki-style meals (traditional Japanese full-course lunch/dinner) are available by online reservation, where you can also savor halal-certified Wagyū beef as part of your course.

For details: Kyo Ryori Honke Tankuma Honten

2. [Sushi] Umemori Sushi School

This sushi restaurant offers a unique experience where customers can not only enjoy tasting sushi but also learn how to make it. Staff will guide you through each step, from mixing rice with seasonings to forming perfectly sized sushi.

Umemori Sushi School offers authentic halal food, ensuring Muslim tourists can savor Japanese cuisine worry-free. What’s remarkable is the provision of a prayer space, not just halal sushi. Although not strictly in Kyoto, as it’s located in Nara city, it’s just an hour away from Kyoto station by train.

For details: Umemori Sushi School

3. [Ramen] Ayam-ya

Did you know that Kyoto is a hotspot for delicious ramen noodles, particularly a genre called “tori-soba” (meaning “chicken noodles”)? Tori-soba is known for its creamy and rich soup made by boiling chicken bones, and it’s just as popular as tonkotsu ramen in Japan.

Ayam-ya is halal-certified and, needless to say, it uses no alcohol or pork. Additionally, they offer unique menus like spicy ramen, specially crafted by the chef to cater to the taste buds of visitors from overseas. Don’t miss out on trying tori-soba when you visit Kyoto!

For details: Ayam-ya

4. [Tofu / Yuba] Okabeya

Of the countless foods that originated in Kyoto, tofu and yuba (tofu skin) are probably the two that come to mind when the Japanese are asked this question. Okabeya is a halal-friendly restaurant that uses no pork or alcohol, and its signature hot pot course corresponds to halal. Its tofu products are made in the factory inside the restaurant, ensuring the freshest tofu experience possible. Its seasonal and healthy cuisine will satisfy your appetite and your body, which may be a little tired after overeating on your trip.

(Image: okabeya.com)

For details: Okabeya

Experience the rich culinary heritage of Kyoto at these halal-friendly restaurants, where traditional flavors blend seamlessly with modern dining trends. From savory ramen to delicate tofu dishes, there’s something to delight every palate in this historic city.

Written by
Hikaru Uchida

Loves to hike and travel. Born in Japan, and raised in China and Thailand. She has been a lacto-ovo vegetarian since she took an environmental studies class in high school. Interested in SDGs, specifically refugee and migrant issues, climate change and gender equality.

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Written by Hikaru Uchida