A Culinary Guide for Vegans and Vegetarians in Miyazaki

Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, about seven minutes by car from Miyazaki Station is the restaurant Veggie Kouji (ベジ糀). This vegan-friendly restaurant sits across from a spacious city park and the prefectural art gallery. It offers a cozy dining experience where patrons can try beautifully crafted vegan dishes. One of the main ingredients is koji (糀/麹), which often comes in the form of fermented soybeans or rice. Koji is essential to Japanese cooking because of its ability to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of each dish.

Mr. Komiya, the owner of Veggie Kouji, first began his training in French cooking. He served as the official resident chef of the Japanese Embassy in Guinea before opening an Italian restaurant and a specialty cheesecake shop in Miyazaki. Difficulties with his health led him to adopt a plant-based diet, where he discovered the many benefits of koji fermentation. His passion for fermented foods grew and eventually, he opened his first vegan restaurant.

“Kouji brings out the natural flavors of ingredients while its enzymes help break down food, making it easier to digest and gentler on the body,” says Mr. Komiya.

At Veggie Kouji, Mr.Komiya crafts vegan bento boxes using rice koji and onion koji. Dishes like the Karaage Bento, the Tonkatsu Bento, and the Yurinchi Bento may sound like classic meat-based favorites, but they are made entirely from plant-based ingredients and are a playful twist to these familiar flavors.

A local favorite, the Yurinchi Bento (ユーリンチー弁当) is packed with crisp, flavorful vegetables, handpicked by the owner from local organic farms.
He visits farmers across Miyazaki to source the freshest produce, ensuring vibrant flavors in every bite.

Enjoy it as is or mix the ingredients for even more deliciousness!

The juicy, satisfyingly firm soy meat pairs perfectly with the light tang of the vegan mayo.
Enjoy it with the owner’s carefully selected organic brown rice for an unforgettable bite!

Grab a hearty vegan bento, crafted by a Miyazaki kouji expert, and enjoy a picnic packed with flavor!


Veggie Kouji
Business Hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (may close early when all items sell out )

Seating & Takeout:
Walk-in (2 indoor seats) or takeout is available.
Take-out reservations are also available. Please provide your name, order, and pickup time.
Phone number: 08039061841

Payment Methods:
Cash, QR code payments, VISA, AMEX

Dietary Options:
Vegetarian and vegan options are available

HARVEST embraces the “Farm to Table” concept and offers a variety of dishes inspired by vegetarian dishes from around the world made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Miyazaki.

The owner Mr.Sugiyama, a passionate traveler with a deep appreciation for international cultures, is partial to British and Australian cuisine. His fondness for bread inspires him to create dishes that pair perfectly with a loaf of freshly baked bread.

The locally sourced vegetables served at HARVEST are carefully selected by Mr.Sugiyama from local farmers in Miyazaki. The moment your plate arrives, the bright, fresh produce catches your eye, filling you with excitement for the meal ahead. At HARVEST, this commitment to quality extends to everything they serve. From the bread to the dressings, and to the sauces, all are carefully homemade to ensure every meal is crafted with care.

“International cuisine often highlights bold spices and rich sauces, which can sometimes take center stage over ingredient freshness. But when made with truly fresh, high-quality ingredients, the difference is striking. Not just in flavor and presentation, but even in how you feel after eating,” Mr. Sugiyama says.

Seasonal vegan soup: Ginger Carrot Potage.
The natural sweetness of the carrots is gently complemented by a hint of ginger, warming both body and soul.

Black Bean Burger. A hearty vegan burger packed with fresh vegetables stacked on top of a patty made of chickpeas and black beans served on a homemade bun packed with fresh vegetables and served on a homemade bun.


The seasonal menu features fresh ingredients that are available during certain times of the year. Each dish can be adjusted to accommodate certain dietary preferences, so feel free to discuss your needs when making a reservation.

HARVEST
Business Hours:
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM / 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Closed on Tuesdays

Reservations:
Please send a DM on Instagram.

Payment Methods:
Cash and PayPay

Dietary Options:
Vegetarian and vegan options are available (reservation recommended).
*Not suitable for Oriental vegans.

Language Support:
English spoken

About a two-minute drive from Aoshima Shrine, one of Miyazaki’s most popular attractions, is Yam Kitchen. Here, you can enjoy unique curries packed with the freshest organic vegetables sourced from local farms around Miyazaki prefecture.

Nestled in a charming coastal town, this cozy vegan restaurant was born from the owner, unforgettable experience at a Sri Lankan Ayurveda clinic, where she was deeply moved by the flavors of traditional curry. Inspired by the healing power of food, she set out to share this dish with the people of Miyazaki.

Her vegan curry follows the principles of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old traditional healing system that originated in India and Sri Lanka. Each plate is thoughtfully crafted to balance the six essential tastes (sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter, and astringent) while incorporating a variety of cooking methods such as raw, boiled, grilled, steamed, and more. Designed to suit all body types, this nourishing dish is as gentle as it is flavorful. With its vibrant presentation, it naturally stimulates the senses, encouraging digestion from the very first bite.

Crispy and chewy, sweet and tangy… A perfect harmony of flavors and textures keeps your spoon moving.
A feast for both the eyes and taste buds, fully satisfying with just vegetables.

Says the owner, “As I work with Miyazaki’s fresh vegetables, I can feel the care and love that went into growing them. I want people to fully enjoy the incredible flavors of Miyazaki’s produce. With this curry, you’ll truly feel your body getting balanced.”

Savor a one-of-a-kind curry where Sri Lanka’s rich culinary traditions blend seamlessly with the vibrant flavors of Miyazaki’s fresh, local vegetables!


Yam Kitchen
Business Hours:
Saturday, Sunday, and Monday 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM
The schedule may vary weekly. Please check Instagram for updates.

Reservations:
Please call 07086963311 or send a DM on Instagram.

Payment Methods:
Cash only

Dietary Options:
Vegan

Language Support:
English spoken

Have you ever experienced traditional Japanese vegan cuisine?
Shojin ryouri (精進料理) is a plant-based cuisine absent of meat or fish that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Originally introduced from China alongside Buddhism, it became an essential part of monastic life, serving as both nourishment and spiritual practice.

SHOJIN CHAGO (精進CHAGO) is a restaurant specializing in shojin ryori. It stands in front of Miyazaki Shrine, a highly esteemed shrine that honors the legendary first emperor of Japan, Emperor Jimmu.

Sei Gozen (清御膳) is a set meal featuring a soy-based twist on Miyazaki’s famous local delicacy “Chicken Nanban.” The set includes seasonal simmered vegetables, a small side dish, and a choice of seasoned white or brown rice.

The dishes are made with carefully selected ingredients, such as a colorful assortment of vegetables and a healthy serving of miso soup Like many vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Miyazaki, they take great pride in including locally sourced produce on their menu.
In shojin cuisine, even the essential dashi broth is made entirely from plant-based ingredients. Its gentle flavor enhances the natural taste of the vegetables without overpowering them, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Every element, from the main ingredients to the smallest garnish, is carefully prepared with dedication and care. Served in a variety of handcrafted tableware made by local artists, the meal becomes more than just food, it’s an experience. Taking each dish in hand and savoring every bite with intention invites a moment of quiet reflection, bringing a deep sense of peace and mindfulness.

A vegan take on Miyazaki’s local specialty, “chicken nanban,” made with soy meat. Juicy, tender, and incredibly satisfying!

Kurumafu Oroshi Katsu: crispy cutlet made from wheat gluten with a surprisingly meaty texture!
The breadcrumbs have a hint of nori, perfectly complementing the grated daikon.

Visit them to experience the delicate and nourishing essence of traditional vegan Japanese cuisine with all your senses.


SHOJIN CHAGO
Business Hours:
Monday - Saturday:
11:45 AM - 2:45 PM (Last Order 1:45 PM) / 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Last Order 8:00 PM)
Sunday: 11:45 AM - 3:00 PM (Last Order 2:00 PM)
Closed on: Tuesdays & the second Monday of each month

Reservations:
Call 0985691677 to make a reservation.
Lunch: Walk-ins welcome or reservations accepted
Dinner: Walk-ins are welcome, but courses require a reservation
If you follow an Oriental vegan diet or have any allergies, please inform us when making a reservation.

Payment Method:
Cash only

Dietary Options:
Vegan

Language Support:
English spoken / English menu available

Aya Town, located in the Eastern mountains of Miyazaki City, is home to one of Japan’s largest deciduous forests that was registered as a UNESCO Eco-Park in 2012. Aya Town has earned global acclaim for its commitment to organic farming and its conservationist efforts. Enjoy a health-conscious lifestyle in the town where people and nature coexist in harmony by dining at Yakuzen Sabou Organic Gouda.

Yakuzen Sabou Organic Gouda is dedicated to promoting well-being through health-conscious herbal cuisine. Inspired by the traditional Japanese concept of Gomi Chowa (五味調和), which emphasizes a balance of the five fundamental tastes—sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter—their dishes showcase fresh organic vegetables harvested in Aya Town.

For a deeper wellness experience, the restaurant also offers accommodation packages and a doctor-supervised fasting program. This program helps reset the digestive system through carefully prepared herbal cuisine. Surrounded by Aya Town’s lush nature, guests can enjoy nourishing meals while reflecting on their dietary habits and overall health, leaving both mind and body refreshed.


Yakuzen Sabou Organic Gouda
Restaurant:
・Reservation required – Please book by phone at least 2 days in advance.
・Dinner is available for groups of 5 or more.

Accommodation:
・Stay only: ¥7,500 per night
・With breakfast: ¥9,500 per night
・With two meals: ¥13,500 per night
Reservation required. Please call to book at least 2 days in advance.

Fasting Program:
・Duration: 2 nights, 3 days
・Price: ¥45,000 per person
・Capacity: Up to 8 people
-Prices include tax
-Only one group or individual per night
-Reservation required. Please call to book at least 2 months in advance.

Tel: 0985770045

Tucked away in a peaceful residential area in the heart of Aya Town, Cafe Yamaneko serves expertly crafted organic vegan cuisine in a beautiful farmhouse setting.

Ms. Asami, the owner of Cafe Yamaneko, was born and raised in Kyoto. She had a family that had a deep appreciation for cuisine. After working in Tokyo for years, she settled in Miyazaki 30 years ago. During her student years, a family member’s illness led her to reflect on the connection between one’s diet and well-being.

After moving to Miyazaki, she continued to explore her family’s relationship with food and how it enriched their daily lives. With a natural curiosity and keen focus, she delved into research while balancing parenting and active hobbies such as yoga and surfing. Over the course of 30 years, Ms. Asamisteadily deepened her knowledge of nutrition and mindful eating.

With such boundless energy, Ms. Asami crafts vibrant vegan dishes filled with global influences, offering a unique, unconventional, and joyful dining experience in the heart of Aya Town.
At Café Yamaneko, the focus is on using organic vegetables and strictly avoiding the use of sugar, mirin, and any artificial flavors. The goal isn’t just purity. It’s to create deeply satisfying, nourishing dishes that get you truly energized and delighted after eating.

Yamaneko Brunch: Carrot and brown rice cream potage, green salad, sweet potato, macadamia nut salad, natural yeast bread, and currant and carrot râpée.

Having traveled the world and experienced a variety of vegetarian and vegan cuisines, Ms. Asami brings a unique and creative touch to her main dishes.
Her crispy spring rolls, filled with nori, shiitake mushrooms, and fried tofu, are enhanced with aromatic spices and a hint of doubanjiang, a fermented soybean paste from China.

“As dietary options continue to diversify, I’d love for people, regardless of gender, age, or profession, to feel comfortable choosing vegan food as just another casual option, like saying,
‘Let’s go vegan today!’, says Ms.Asami.

To complete the experience, enjoy a vegan apple pie and soy chai for dessert!
The homemade cream, made from tofu, coconut butter, and coconut oil pairs perfectly with the gentle sweetness of the apples.

Bring your friends and family and enjoy creative, fun, and unconventional vegan cuisine at Cafe Yamaneko!


Cafe Yamaneko
Business Hours:
Open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays
Irregular closures: calling ahead is recommended

Reservations:
Please call 0985773858 or send a DM on Instagram.
If you require a gluten-free meal or have any allergies, please inform us when making a reservation.
Dinner is by reservation only.

Payment Methods:
Cash, credit cards, IC cards, QR payments

Dietary Options:
Vegetarian and vegan options are available

Language Support:
English spoken

vis à vis café is on the second floor of a building in central Miyazaki City. The area is a quiet commercial district that is home to government offices, art galleries, local bookstores, and select coffee shops.

Celebrating its 15th anniversary in July, vis à vis café is a vegetarian-based haven where locals come to relax and unwind.

Popular vegetables served at vis a vis café include eggplant, carrots, bell peppers, and much more. The menu changes with the seasons meaning different times of the year invite different flavors to enjoy.

“Miyazaki’s vegetables are incredibly vibrant! They have rich colors, stay fresh longer, and are exceptionally flavorful. The quality is on a whole different level compared to other places,” says the owner Ms. Sazawa, who returned to Miyazaki after spending years in Tokyo.

Made with additive-free seasonings, each dish is prepared simply yet thoughtfully to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. With every bite, you’ll feel a sense of nourishment and renewal.

Weekly Veggie Plate. Yes, every single vegetable is from Miyazaki!
You’ll be amazed by the variety and richness of local produce.

The vegan Chocolate ice cream has a rich cocoa flavor that comes with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness!

Made with ingredients grown by farmers in Ebino, the homemade kumquat jam (contains honey) will be available from late February at vis à vis café.
Domestic online orders and shipping are also available. Please purchase from the Online store website below!

When you need a moment to relax while exploring, recharge your body and mind with comforting meals and sweets at vis à vis café.


vis à vis café
Business Hours:
Wednesday – Saturday
Lunch: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (Last Order)
Tea Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Last Order)
Dinner: Private booking for one group only

Reservations:
Lunch, dinner, and takeout require a reservation.
Please book via Instagram DM or Facebook DM.
If you have any allergies, please inform us when making a reservation.
Sweets: Availability varies daily. Please check in advance.

Payment Methods:
Cash and credit cards

Dietary Options:
Primarily vegetarian, with vegan options available.
Monthly special plates with meat or fish are also available.

Located in Heiwadai Park, a popular tourist destination in Miyazaki City, Organic Restaurant Sizen is a buffet-style restaurant that offers homemade dishes made with organic and pesticide-free vegetables grown by local farmers.

Guests can enjoy a selection of over 10 different drinks and more than 20 delicious dishes.
※ While the menu is primarily vegetable-based, some dishes may include eggs, beef, or fish.

Enjoy terrace seating with a stunning view of Miyazaki City. Pets are welcome.


Organic Restaurant Sizen
Business Hours:
Monday – Sunday
Lunch: 11:00 AM - 3:30 PM (Last entry: 2:30 PM)
Dinner (Saturday only): 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM (Last entry: 8:00 PM)

Payment Methods:
Cash only

Dietary Options:
Primarily organic vegetables grown in Miyazaki
Some dishes may contain eggs, meat, or fish