The Ultimate Japan Guide for Gluten-Free Travelers

Navigating Japan as a celiac or someone with gluten intolerance might seem daunting, but with the right preparation, it’s absolutely achievable and incredibly rewarding. When I announced my journey to Japan via a 15-day repositioning cruise across the Pacific, the question wasn’t just about the long days at sea, but rather, “What will you eat in Japan as a celiac?”. Renowned for its exquisite flavors and culinary artistry, Japanese cuisine, unfortunately, often incorporates gluten in unexpected ways. This comprehensive Japan Guide is born from my month-long experience exploring Japan gluten-free, filled with practical advice, insights into Japanese food culture, and essential tips for a safe and delicious trip.

My previous gluten-free dining experiences in Vietnam hadn’t fully prepared me for the challenges in Japan. In fact, my month in Japan was the very reason I developed detailed celiac translation cards. Simple cards weren’t enough to prevent illness. Since my visit, awareness of celiac disease and gluten-free options in Japan has grown significantly, making dining out less stressful. However, clear communication remains key to ensuring a gluten-free meal. I hope this Japan guide, along with my translation card, will empower you to confidently and deliciously explore Japan.

Understanding Gluten-Free Eating in Japan: An Essential Overview for Your Japan Guide

Often, Japan is perceived as a haven for gluten-free eaters due to the abundance of rice and the popularity of sushi. However, this Japan guide must highlight a crucial reality: wheat is prevalent in Japanese cuisine. Soy sauce, a cornerstone ingredient, barley, and wheat flour are widely used. Even seemingly safe sushi rice can contain grain-based vinegar made with barley malt or wheat.

Historically, rice was the staple grain in Japan, with wheat playing a minor role. The surge in wheat consumption began after World War II, fueled by aggressive marketing and subsidized wheat imports from the US. Today, wheat is ubiquitous in instant ramen, sweet buns, custard treats, and even soy sauce.

Adding to the complexity, celiac disease isn’t as widely recognized in Japan, affecting only about 0.19% of the population (according to a 2008-2013 study). While studies suggest genetic differences and lower wheat consumption compared to Western countries may contribute to this, it’s important to note that awareness is increasing, and gluten-free options are becoming more available. You’ll even find dedicated gluten-free restaurants in major cities like Tokyo, which this Japan guide will detail later.

Is Japan a Celiac-Friendly Destination? A Balanced Perspective for Your Japan Guide

Absolutely, yes! But, as this Japan guide emphasizes, preparation is key.

During my initial trip, despite having a basic gluten-free translation card and even a guide at times, I frequently fell ill. Pinpointing the exact source of gluten was often impossible. Insufficient pre-trip research and a generic translation card were major contributors. The card lacked the necessary detail to address the pervasive use of wheat and the risk of cross-contamination. Well-meaning individuals sometimes overlooked wheat-containing soy sauce or the gluten in standard miso. Cross-contamination from shared cooking surfaces and utensils was also a recurring issue.

These frustrating experiences were pivotal. They motivated me to create this detailed Japan guide and a comprehensive gluten-free card using local ingredient names, translated and verified by professionals. This marked the beginning of the Legal Nomads gluten-free card project, aiming to provide travelers with effective communication tools for dietary needs.

While navigating dietary restrictions requires patience and understanding from both sides, please don’t let this deter you from visiting Japan. It’s a country of breathtaking beauty, both in its landscapes and its cuisine. This Japan guide aims to equip you to experience the best of Japan safely.

Essential Items for Gluten-Free Celiacs Traveling in Japan: A Checklist for Your Japan Guide

Beyond the recommendations in this Japan guide, remember that Japanese culture generally shows great respect for food restrictions and allergies. Unlike some countries where dietary needs might be dismissed, Japan is not one of them. The primary challenges I encountered were communication and deciphering food labels without a detailed translation tool. With polite and clear communication, and the resources in this Japan guide, you’ll find Japan to be a welcoming destination. Moreover, the increasing availability of gluten-free products, bakeries, and restaurants makes it even more accommodating for gluten-free travelers.

Therefore, when packing for Japan, consider including these essentials, which are also highlighted throughout this Japan guide:

Detailed Japanese Gluten-Free Translation Card: Crucial for clear communication in restaurants and when purchasing food. (You can find a detailed, downloadable card here).
Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Packets: To ensure you have a safe condiment option available.
List of Gluten-Free Restaurants and Bakeries: This Japan guide provides an extensive list, but having a printed or digital copy is handy.
Basic Japanese Phrases: Learning a few key phrases will enhance your interactions and show respect.
Snacks: Pack some gluten-free snacks for convenience, especially during transit or in areas with limited options.

Addressing Concerns About Offending Chefs: A Cultural Note for Your Japan Guide

One of my initial worries was appearing rude or disrespectful to chefs by having dietary restrictions. Japanese culinary culture deeply values artisans (shokunin) who dedicate themselves to their craft, as beautifully portrayed in “Jiro Dreams of Sushi.” As “Rice, Noodle, Fish” notes, Japan is a city of ten thousand shokunin, and food is a revered art form.

My concern was about potentially disrespecting this artistry by requesting modifications. However, as this Japan guide emphasizes, communicating your needs respectfully and clearly is possible. Even with a guide, I experienced gluten exposure due to the pervasiveness of wheat and cross-contamination.

Therefore, this Japan guide advises presenting your gluten-free translation card politely and seeking permission before using your own gluten-free soy sauce. This approach demonstrates respect while ensuring your dietary needs are met.

The Power of a Detailed Gluten-Free Restaurant Card in Japanese: A Key Tool in Your Japan Guide

This Japan guide emphasizes the importance of a detailed gluten-free translation card. It was the first in my series of gluten-free guides and language cards, developed to empower celiacs to travel confidently. Working with translators and fellow celiacs, I aimed to create precise and reliable cards for safe dining abroad.

This detailed card facilitates clear and polite communication about your dietary restrictions, helping you discern safe and unsafe menu options.

You can purchase this essential tool for your Japan trip through this trusted third-party site: [link to purchase].

Why This Japanese Gluten-Free Card is Different: A Unique Aspect of This Japan Guide

As someone highly sensitive to gluten, even trace amounts from cross-contamination or hidden soy sauce can cause days of illness. Many celiacs experience similar sensitivities, and even without immediate symptoms, gluten exposure is detrimental to our health.

This card stands out because:

Instant Digital Access: Downloadable and mobile-friendly, ensuring you always have it on hand. A printable PDF version with English translations is also included for easy reference.
Local Ingredient Focus: It uses specific local ingredients and clear lists of safe and unsafe foods, going beyond simple “I can’t eat gluten” statements.
Cross-Contamination Awareness: Unlike basic cards, it explicitly addresses the dangers of cross-contamination from surfaces and cooking oils.
Expertly Crafted and Verified: Researched by a celiac and double-translated for accuracy.

Reader feedback consistently highlights its effectiveness:

Nicole’s Experience:

Hi Jodi, I obviously don’t know exactly what is written on the card in English, but it is excellent and saved my skin the other night. The restaurant that we went to boils its edamame in the same water as its udon noodles. The poor waiter kept pointing at the card when I said I could have edamame until he managed to explain the way they cooked them. Needless to say I didn’t get much for dinner that night, but I wasn’t poisoned either. Indispensable. Thanks again.

Danyelle’s Testimonial (August 2024):

I used this card for a three week trip to Japan and cannot tell you how many times chefs or others commented on how helpful this card is to understand what I could and could not eat. I did not get sick once while traveling thanks to this card and Jodi’s blog (as well as countless other recommendations from the GF community).

Get your translation card now: [link to purchase]. An English translation of the card is provided upon purchase, or use the included PDF with English on one side.

MSG and Gluten: Clarifying Misconceptions in Your Japan Guide

My research for this Japan guide uncovered some online discussions about MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) being derived from wheat and therefore potentially unsafe for celiacs. However, it’s essential to clarify this point.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states unequivocally:

Does “glutamate” in a product mean it contains gluten?

No—glutamate or glutamic acid have nothing to do with gluten. A person with celiac disease may react to the wheat that may be present in soy sauce, but not to the MSG in the product.

The Gluten Free Dietician further confirms that MSG production in North America shifted away from wheat flour in the 1960s. While some sources suggest Japanese and Chinese MSG might still use wheat gluten in isolation, Ajinomoto, a major Japanese MSG producer, explicitly states their MSG is derived from sugarcane, corn, tapioca starch, or other ingredients through fermentation.

As Just Hungry blog notes, Ajinomoto MSG is made by “fermenting the sugar extracted from sugar canes or corn, tapioca starch and other ingredients”. While regional variations in MSG production might exist, most MSG encountered in Japan and Vietnam is Ajinomoto. My personal experience and research for this Japan guide indicate that soy sauce and wheat-based sauces, not MSG, are the primary sources of inadvertent gluten exposure in Asia.

However, further personal experiences and insights on this topic are always welcome.

Gluten-Free Japanese Food Adventures: Dishes and Snacks for Your Japan Guide

Armed with knowledge and the right tools, gluten-free dining in Japan becomes an exciting adventure. This Japan guide now delves into specific dishes and snacks to help you navigate the Japanese culinary landscape. My initial lack of research before my trip was a regret I hope to help you avoid.

Izakaya Insights for Gluten-Free Diners: A Section for Your Japan Guide

Izakayas, casual Japanese pubs serving drinks and food, are a must-experience. While many dishes contain wheat or soy, some gluten-free options exist. Grilled skewers (yakitori) can often be prepared with salt (shio) instead of the soy-sauce based tare sauce. Ask: “Shi o-yaki dekimasu ka?” (Salt skewers, can you do it please?).

Choose salt-only and confirm no pre-marinades. Use your gluten-free card to inquire about grill safety. Some izakayas have separate grill sections for salt-only yakitori, minimizing cross-contamination. I enjoyed plenty of salt-grilled, non-marinated yakitori.

Gluten-Free Noodles in Japan: Soba and Rice Noodles – A Deep Dive in Your Japan Guide

Yes, gluten-free noodles exist in Japan! 100% rice noodles are available, and buckwheat (soba) noodles are another possibility. While buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, many soba noodles in Japan are mixed with wheat. Finding 100% buckwheat soba is rare and often more expensive.

During my travels, I found only one restaurant serving 100% buckwheat soba. Unfortunately, the soup broth contained soy sauce, but they kindly provided the noodle cooking water with fresh ginger for flavor.

Most soba restaurants use a wheat-buckwheat mix, so unless you are certain they are 100% buckwheat, avoid them. When you do find pure buckwheat soba, it’s a delicious treat. Be cautious of dipping sauces and broths, which often contain soy sauce or wheat. This is where your gluten-free soy sauce packets come in handy!

Convenience Store (Konbini) Gluten-Free Snacks: Your 24/7 Japan Guide Resource

Japanese convenience stores (konbini) like 7-Eleven and Family Mart are ubiquitous and invaluable for gluten-free travelers. Ingredients vary between chains, so always double-check labels. Konbini saved me countless times, offering protein and snacks between meals, often located at transportation hubs and throughout cities. Google image translation is a useful tool for deciphering labels.

Gluten-Free Konbini Snack Options:

Bubble Tea: Plain black tea with tapioca pearls is generally safe. Avoid flavored powders, which may contain gluten. Chains like Gong Cha offer allergen menus.
Chestnuts: Boiled or roasted chestnuts are calorie-dense and delicious. Check packaging to ensure they are plain chestnuts.

Edamame: Refrigerated edamame is usually safe at konbini. In restaurants, confirm they are not boiled in udon noodle water.
Yakiimo (Baked Sweet Potatoes): A popular snack, often available as street food in winter and in supermarkets. Plain baked sweet potato is gluten-free; avoid sauces.
Onigiri (Rice Balls): Most onigiri are off-limits due to soy sauce. Pickled plum (ume) and some salmon (sake) onigiri might be safe, but always check ingredients for soy sauce or wheat using the Kanji provided later in this Japan guide.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: Pre-packaged, pre-salted, and convenient protein source.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt with fresh fruit is safest. Some flavored yogurts may be gluten-free, check labels.
Mochi (daifuku): Made from rice flour, delicious and often safe when bought from specialty vendors. Konbini mochi may contain glutenous additives. Look for fresh daifuku from specialty shops. Red bean and black sesame mochi are excellent choices.

Gluten-Free Sushi, Sashimi, and Seafood in Japan: A Seafood Lover’s Section in Your Japan Guide

Sashimi: Raw fish is naturally gluten-free. Fusion restaurants may add sauces, so confirm no soy sauce or wheat.
Nigiri: Fish on sushi rice is generally gluten-free if the rice vinegar is pure. If unsure, request plain white rice, though sushi chefs might be hesitant as it alters the flavor.
Donburi Bowls: Tuna donburi (tuna bowl) with plain white rice (not sushi rice) is a safer option. Use your gluten-free card to ensure no soy sauce is brushed on the rice. Confirm with the restaurant if unsure.
Avoid Eel (unagi): Marinated in soy-based sauce, often with wheat.
Use Gluten-Free Soy Sauce: Carry your own packets, but be mindful of restaurant etiquette. Acceptable in casual spots, less so in high-end restaurants.
Tempura: Battered and deep-fried dishes are off-limits due to wheat in tempura batter.
Crab Sticks/Imitation Crab (kanikama or kani): Often made with fish, starch, and wheat. Opt for real crab if available (more expensive).
Nori (Seaweed Sheets): Naturally gluten-free unless flavored with soy sauce. Sushi nori is typically unflavored.
Spicy Mayo: Mayonnaise in Japan can contain gluten. Kewpie brand is gluten-free in the USA but not necessarily in Japan. Always inquire.
Wasabi: Real wasabi root is common in Japan, unlike horseradish-based wasabi in North America. Real wasabi is generally gluten-free, but confirm if thickened with corn starch (usually gluten-free) or wheat.

In Miyajima, grilled oysters with lemon juice are a treat. Ask for no soy sauce to keep them gluten-free.

Mugi Tea (Barley Tea): A Gluten Culprit to Avoid in Your Japan Guide

Barley tea (mugi cha) is a common tea in Japan, unlike in North America. Mugi cha is NOT gluten-free. It’s a dark brown, earthy tea, distinct from green matcha. Stick to pure green tea or other tea leaves (white, black, oolong) and ensure mugi (barley) is not an ingredient.

Soy Sauce in Japan: The Ubiquitous Gluten Source – A Critical Section of Your Japan Guide

Soy sauce is a major challenge for gluten-free eaters in Japan because most varieties contain wheat flour. Historically, this wasn’t always the case. While a detailed history of soy sauce is available from the Soy Info Center [link], the current reality is that soy sauce often renders otherwise gluten-free dishes unsafe.

Dark sauces are often suspect due to soy sauce content, including ponzu, teriyaki, and hoisin. Many dishes, like tamagoyaki (rolled egg omelette), inari (tofu pockets), and uni (sea urchin), are pre-marinated or seasoned with soy sauce.

Bringing your own gluten-free soy sauce packets is a viable strategy. In the West, we use tamari (wheat-free soy sauce) and gluten-free soy sauce alternatives. In Japan, koikuchi, a dark soy sauce resembling tamari, DOES contain wheat. Tamari is closer to the original wheat-free fermented soybean sauce that arrived in Japan in the 7th century and remains the only naturally wheat-free soy sauce.

While Western cultures are more accustomed to dietary substitutions, Japan, with its deep respect for culinary tradition, may be less flexible. As mentioned earlier, politely presenting your needs and translation card is key.

Matcha (Green Tea Powder): A Safe and Delicious Beverage in Your Japan Guide

Matcha, a vibrant green powder made from ground tea leaves, is naturally gluten-free and a delightful and safe beverage choice in Japan.

Essential Kanji for Gluten-Free Navigation: Empowering Your Japan Guide Experience

Knowing basic kanji (Japanese characters) for gluten-containing ingredients is invaluable. While a translation card is essential, ingredient knowledge empowers you further, especially in stores or when faced with communication barriers. Memorizing these characters can be a lifesaver. Western foods (yōshoku) in Japan also often contain wheat, just like at home.

Key Kanji to Memorize:

Wheat: 小麦 (komugi) or 小麦粉 (komugiko)
Whole Wheat: 全粒小麦 (zen-ryu komugi)
Barley: 麦 (mugi) or 大麦 (oo-mugi)
Soy Sauce: 醤油 (shoyu)
Rye: ライ麦 (raimugi)
Fu (Wheat Gluten): 麩 (fu)
Seitan (Wheat Gluten): セイタン (seitan)
Malt: 麦芽 (bakuga)
Oats: 燕麦 (enbaku)
Mizuame (Syrup): 水飴 (mizuame) – May be derived from barley, corn, or potatoes.

Print or memorize these Kanji and scan ingredient lists. This knowledge will be incredibly helpful when navigating convenience stores or deciphering menus.

Unfortunately, okonomiyaki, a savory pancake, is typically off-limits due to wheat.

Comprehensive List of Gluten-Free Restaurants in Japan: Your Curated Japan Guide Resource

This Japan guide now provides a regularly updated list of gluten-free restaurants in Japan, based on my experiences and recommendations from fellow celiacs.

Gluten-Free Restaurants and Bakeries in Tokyo: A Detailed Tokyo Section of Your Japan Guide

Tokyo, a frequent base for my Japan travels, has seen a welcome increase in gluten-free options since my first visit. This Japan guide highlights some excellent choices in this vibrant city.

Komehiro Bakery: website (2-3-18 Sakai, Musashino-shi, Tokyo). Gluten-free bakery with rice flour bread, donuts, and cakes. Owner is gluten-intolerant.
NachuRa Gluten Free Cafe: website (2 Chome−8−18 1F Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo). Safe gluten-free sweets, vegan options available.
Otaco Sweets: website (3 Chome-5-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo). Rice flour chiffon cakes near Senso-ji Temple.
Biossa: website (2 Chome-10-19 Kasuga, Bunkyo City, Tokyo). Take-out bakery with fantastic rice bread, bagels, muffins, croissants.
Jiyugaoka Bakery: Instagram (1-chōme−26−９三笠ビル, Jiyūgaoka, Meguro City, Tokyo). 100% gluten-free bakery with breads, cakes, savory rolls.

Gluten Free T’s Kitchen: website (7-8-5 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo). Gluten-free Japanese dishes like okonomiyaki, yakisoba, tempura, ramen. Menu clearly marked for allergens.
Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum: website (2-14-21 Shinyokohama, Kohoku Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture). Now offers gluten-free ramen.
RiceHACK/Onden House: Instagram (5 Chome-16-5 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo). Gluten-free bakery with rice-based sweet and savory items, including takeout pizza.
Gluten Free Ramen Shop Sinbusakiya: website (2-10-3 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo). Gluten-free, vegan, and non-pork ramen options.
Otsuna Sushi: website (7-14-4 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo). Gluten-free soy sauce available, knowledgeable staff, incredible sushi.
Un-Gluten: website (1-18-9 Uchikanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo). Gluten-free pasta with various sauces, uses Koshihikari brown rice pasta.
Little Bird Cafe: (Closed Permanently). Previously a popular 100% gluten-free cafe with diverse menu, but sadly closed.
Breizh Cafe: website (3 Chome-5-4 Jingūmae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo). French cafe with 100% buckwheat crepes (galettes). Confirm buckwheat crepe when ordering.
My Bánh Mì by Gluten Free TOKYO: Instagram (1 Chome−20−4 アクシア原宿 103, Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo). 100% gluten-free Vietnamese-inspired sandwiches, vegan options. Rice flour bread.
RizLabo Kitchen: website (4-15-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo). Rice-based pancakes and crepes.
B to Go: Instagram (14−2 リカールビル 1階, Takabashi, Koto City, Tokyo). 100% gluten-free, vegan cafe with daily rotating menu, desserts like vegan cheesecake.
Setagaya Alley Bite Cheese Fried Bread & Fried Food Bar (Gluten-free): Google Maps (1-16-24 Setagaya, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo). Gluten-free bread bowls, udon noodles, desserts. Wheat, oats, rye, barley-free.
Brown Rice Cafe by Neils’ Yard Remedies: website (5 Chome-1-8 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo). Vegetarian cafe with gluten-free options, seasonal vegetables. Confirm cross-contamination.
Chaffles: Instagram (Pop-up; see link for details). Gluten-free waffles, savory and sweet, and sweets by Mincle.
Comme’N Gluten Free: website (7 Chome-19-12 Okusawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo). Gluten-free hot dogs, sandwiches, bread, treats. Award-winning bread craftsman owner.

Bon Bon Bake Shop: Instagram (2 Chome−11−12 渡辺ビル, Furuishiba, Koto City, Tokyo). 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan options. Muffins, dessert breads, cookies, donuts.
Gluten Free 61 Cafe and Bar: Facebook (3 Chome-4-４番地６号 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo). Gluten-free okonomiyaki, ramen, gyoza, agedashi tofu, organic wines.
Karehadare: Instagram (2-38-11 Kamimeguro, Meguro, Tokyo). Gluten-free curries (Thai, Indian, etc.) with organic vegetables, basmati rice.
Japan Crepe: (CLOSED). Previously a gluten-free rice flour crepe shop in Harajuku.
Ain Soph Journey: website (Various Tokyo locations). Vegan, plant-based, many GF marked items, rice-based pastas, pastries. Online shop available.
Where is a dog?: website (2 Chome−24−9 SUNO Ecru 103, Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino, Tokyo). Gluten-free menu, vegan and dairy-free options, waffles, curries, baked goods, vegan desserts.

Non-Dedicated (Not 100% Celiac-Safe) Gluten-Free Ramen Options in Tokyo: (Consult with restaurants directly and use translation card to inquire about cross-contamination).

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Takayama: A Regional Highlight in Your Japan Guide

Heianraku: website (6-7-2 Tenman-chou, Takayama). Family-run Chinese-style Japanese food, friendly staff, gluten-free adaptations, English menu, vegetarian/vegan options. Book in advance due to limited seating.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Nara: Deer Park Dining Options in Your Japan Guide

Daifuku Deli Stall (Nara Train Station): Supermarket under Nara Station (Kansai Main Line). Deli stalls with fresh daifuku and mochi. Owner can guide you to gluten-free options.
Izasa Sushi Restaurant: website (16 Kasuganocho, Nara). Helpful staff, gluten-free sushi platters available, deer park views. Bring your own tamari.
Kamameshi Shizuka: website (59 Noborioji-cho, Nara). Traditional Japanese rice dish (kamameshi), gluten-free adaptable.
Nara Hotel: website Gluten-free breakfast available upon request.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Kamakura: Curry Recommendation in Your Japan Guide

Gokuraku Curry: website Kamakura. Japanese curry restaurant with gluten-free curry options.

Gluten-Free Restaurants on Miyajima: Island Dining Tips in Your Japan Guide

Limited daytime restaurants. Bring mainland snacks for dinner. Plain oysters, plain rice, plain grilled fish are possible options at some restaurants. Communicate using gluten-free card.

Hotels:

Sakuraya Ryokan: website Miyajima Island. Gluten-free breakfast available (egg, yogurt, salad, fruit).
Yamaichi Bettkan: website (1162-4 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima). Traditional Japanese inn, gluten-free meals with tamari sauce (not all items GF). Half-board option with safe gluten-free preparation.
Miyajima Base: website Modern co-working space with gluten-free restaurant. Wheat, milk, egg-free. Gluten-free fried chicken, curries, snacks.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Hiroshima: Okonomiyaki and More in Your Japan Guide

Kohotona Gallery: Instagram (2 Chome−16−18 第２松田ビル 102, Kamiyasu, Asaminami Ward, Hiroshima). Gluten, dairy, sugar-free snacks and treats.
Hassei Okonomiyaki: Google Maps (4-17 Fujimicho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima). Gluten-free okonomiyaki, knowledgeable staff, GF menu markings, vegetarian options, gluten-free dipping sauce. Reservations recommended.
Cafe Ponte: website (1 Chome-9-21 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima). Italian restaurant with gluten-free menu, can accommodate celiacs.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Kyoto: Cultural Capital Culinary Delights in Your Japan Guide

Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, offers a growing number of gluten-free options.

Hotel Sakura Terrace The Gallery: website (39番地, 南区東九条上殿田町, Kyoto). Hotel restaurant with gluten-free fries, roasted vegetables, green tea creme brûlée.
Daimaru Department Store: website (581, 帯屋町, 四条通高倉西入ル, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto). Basement food court with whole foods store. Gluten-free puffed rice cereal, biscuits in children’s section. English-speaking staff.
Kerala Restaurant: website (KUSビル2F, 河原町三条上ル西側, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto). Indian food, English menu, knowledgeable about gluten-free needs.
Yak and Yeti: Facebook (Gokomachi-dōri, Nishikikōji-sagaru Kyoto). Nepali food, gluten-free sauces, made-to-order, vegetarian-friendly.
Cafe Planet Kyoto: website (447-5 Kajiicho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto). Vegan, gluten-free, dog-friendly cafe. Pizzas, pastas, burgers, soups, sweets. Instagram.
Breizh Cafe: website (14-1 Ishibashicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto). French cafe, 100% gluten-free galettes (buckwheat crepes). Confirm 100% buckwheat.
Teuchi Toru Soba: website (35-1 松屋町, 二条通東洞院東入ル, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto). Tiny soba noodle bar, 100% buckwheat soba, gluten-free broth (noodle water), owner understands gluten-free needs.
Little Heaven: website (8-29 Saganohirakichou, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto). Upscale vegan restaurant, call 3 days ahead for reservations. Gluten-free lunch sets (pizza, spaghetti, veggie burger, rice bread burger).
Choice Eat and Study Space Kyoto: website (89− Vegan and gluten-free options, burgers, pancakes, 100% gluten-free menu.
Sugarhill Kyoto: Facebook (725 Uematsucho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto). Japanese fusion food, gluten-free options specifically for celiacs. Website mentions celiac.
Toshoan: website (709 Horikawa Sanjo Shimohachimonji-cho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto). Rice flour sweets, pancakes, pastries, gluten-free marked items. Stationery shop too. Instagram.
Kitten Company: Google Maps (Kamisuwa-Cho 294-1, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto). Vegan teahouse, organic food, gluten-free menu.
Waco Crepes: website (355-1 1, Miyagawasuji, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto). Gluten-free, vegan crepes, fermented rice flour, sweet toppings. Instagram.
Gion Soymilk Ramen Uno Yukiko: website (40 Kameicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto). Gluten-free ramen, soy milk base, rice flour noodles, kombu seaweed. Gluten-free soy sauce.
Café & Bar Maru: website (123 Saitōchō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto). Fully gluten-free, vegan-friendly, elegant meals and sweets. Chef is gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Fujikawaguchiko (Mount Fuji Area): Scenic Dining in Your Japan Guide

High Spirits Izakaya Bar: Facebook (1167 Kodachi, Fujikawaguchiko). Not 100% GF, but chef understands celiac, many naturally GF options.
Shaw’s Sushi Bar & Dining: Instagram (3632-7, Fujikawaguchiko). Sushi, rice flour tempura, gluten-free soy sauce, knowledgeable staff.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Hakone: Onsen Retreats in Your Japan Guide

Onsen and Ryokan Kijite Hoeiso: website (227, Yumotochaya, Hakone-Machi). Traditional ryokan, gluten-free meals, no soy or wheat. Celiac-safe.

Gluten-Free Restaurants near Zushi: Coastal Cafe in Your Japan Guide

Poolside Coffee: Instagram (8 Chome-1-38 Sakurayama, Zushi). Gluten-free and vegan treats, savory and sweet options, breads, cookies, tarts.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Osaka: City Delights in Your Japan Guide

Kiyomura Sushizanmai: website (1-7-21 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka). 24/7 sushi restaurant, gluten-free miso and rice, bring your own GF soy sauce/tamari.
Grom Gelato: website Osaka branch. 100% gluten-free gelato, cones, no vegetable oils.
Comoconoco Gluten Free Laboratory & Cafe: website (2-2-3 Shimamachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka). Gluten-free bread, desserts, rice flour, dedicated GF kitchen, baking classes.
Anosaki Konosaki Gluten-free Cafe/Nakazakicho Cafe Restaurant: Instagram (1 Chome−2−5 エスパシオン中崎 1階, Nakazakinishi, Kita Ward, Osaka). 100% gluten-free cafe, GF fried chicken, noodles, Japanese curries, sweets.