Kyoto Vegan Cooking Classes 2026: A Complete Guide for International Travelers
How to Choose a 100% Plant-Based Cooking Class for Peace of Mind + Sightseeing Plans for Cooking Class Areas
For travelers who want to enjoy an authentic Japanese cooking experience in Kyoto but are worried about things like, "Is it really 100% vegan?", "Will I be mixed with other participants?", or "I can't find the cooking class location on a map...", this guide is for you.
If you're looking for private lessons, especially if you're traveling with children or as a couple, this page might be helpful.
We have created a list of current vegan cooking classes and sightseeing plans for the surrounding areas.
We have included cooking classes that appeared on the first page of search results (including advertisements and platform listings) using 10 different keyword patterns such as "kyoto vegan cooking class," along with simple sightseeing plans for each area surrounding the cooking class.
Area-specific cooking classes and sightseeing plans
A. Okazaki Park Area (Eastern part of Kyoto City)
The Okazaki Park area is located in the heart of Higashiyama, close to Heian Shrine, Nanzen-ji Temple, and the Philosopher's Path, and is a peaceful place with plenty of greenery. A recommended leisurely morning-afternoon itinerary is Ginkaku-ji Temple/Philosopher's Path → Nanzen-ji Temple → Okazaki Park → Cooking Class (if joining in the evening).
Make Vegan Ramen and Gyoza in Kyoto
This is a fully vegan class. This experience is one of the top choices for vegan travelers.
B. Arashiyama Area (Western edge of Kyoto City)
*If you're going to the bamboo forest, early morning is recommended as it's quieter and less crowded.
You can sightsee the bamboo forest and temples and shrines in the early morning and then participate in a cooking class starting at 10:30 AM. This will also serve as your lunch, so you'll be full. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely stroll around Arashiyama in the afternoon and then participate in a cooking class starting at 4 PM. This will also serve as your dinner, so you can relax at a nearby hot spring afterward.
Kyoto Green Cuisine | Vegan Class
We offer a fully vegan class (the host is non-vegan). It's a small, private class, making it popular with families and couples. The location in Arashiyama is great, and it's close to the station (3-minute walk).
C. Tambaguchi Station Area (Near Kyoto Station)
Major facilities around Kyoto Station, such as the Kyoto Railway Museum, Kyoto Aquarium, and Umekoji Park, are all within walking distance.
For a light cultural experience with minimal travel, head south to Toji Temple or head north to Nijo Castle.
Make vegan ramen, gyoza and rice balls with a chef | Kyoto Cooking Class | airKitchen
It's completely vegan and has excellent reviews. The maximum number of participants is slightly on the larger side.
D. Daitokuji Area (Northern Kyoto City)
The Daitokuji area is a quiet Zen temple area located in the northern part of Kyoto (Kita Ward), with few tourists and a peaceful atmosphere. A morning itinerary of Daitokuji Temple → Classroom → Afternoon Kinkakuji Temple and Ryoanji Temple allows you to compactly experience the charm of the northern Zen temple area, and travel is efficient.
Vegan Japanese Comfort Food in Kyoto (7 dishes) | Kyoto Cooking Class | airKitchen
This is a home-style vegan class, so you can rest assured.
E. Kawaramachi/Karasuma Area (Central Kyoto City Area)
The Kawaramachi/Karasuma area is in the heart of Kyoto (downtown), with Nishiki Market, shopping streets, and the Kamo River all nearby. A recommended plan that makes the most of the Kawaramachi/Karasuma location is to visit Nishiki Market first thing in the morning, then go to the classroom, and then head to the Kamo River and Kyoto Imperial Palace in the afternoon.
Veggie Class with Keiko in Kyoto - Cooking Sun
This is a fully vegan class. This experience is one of the top choices for vegan travelers.
Kyoto Cooking Class: Vegan Sushi With a Professional Chef
This is a completely vegan-friendly event. There is a generous maximum number of participants.
Izakaya Food Cooking Class in Kyoto
Standard classes are shared, so if you require a completely vegan option, please confirm this when booking.
Standard classes are shared, so if you require a completely vegan option, please confirm this when booking.
Traditional Japanese Wagashi Making Class in Kyoto
Standard classes are small, but since participants are shared, you need to confirm when booking if you want a completely vegan class.
F. Demachiyanagi Area (Eastern part of Kyoto City)
Demachiyanagi Station is located right next to the confluence of the Kamo River and Takano River (Kamo River Delta), and is close to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Shimogamo Shrine, making it an easily accessible area. In the morning, we will stroll around the Kamo River Delta and Shimogamo Shrine, and have lunch at a cooking class. In the afternoon, we will head towards the Kyoto Imperial Palace or the Philosopher's Path.
Ramen Factory | Japan Activity | Unique Culinary Experiences & Tours in Kyoto & Mt.Fuji
I think you'll feel more at ease if you book it for private use.
G. Philosopher's Path Area (Eastern edge of Kyoto City)
The Philosopher's Path is a quiet area in Higashiyama. The flow from Ginkaku-ji Temple → Philosopher's Path → Classroom → Nanzen-ji Temple/Eikan-do Temple allows for a natural and minimal travel experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the charm of the Higashiyama area. (This plan is for a cooking class scheduled between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.)
It's reassuring to have a small group, but you need to confirm if they are completely vegan.
It's reassuring to have a small group, but you need to confirm if they are completely vegan.
H Iwakura Area (Northernmost part of Kyoto City)
Kurama and Kibune are recommended for those who want to fully enjoy nature. While hiking is possible, it's advisable to assess your physical condition and prepare options such as using the cable car or shortening your trip. (This plan is for when the cooking class is scheduled between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.)
It's reassuring to have a small group, but you need to confirm if they are completely vegan.
I. Kitayama Area (Near the Botanical Garden) (Northern Kyoto City)
The Kitayama area is a quiet, green residential area. Its relaxed atmosphere is a major draw, with few tourists. In the afternoon, unwind at the Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden, and then take a leisurely stroll along the stylish Kitayama Street.
Seasonal Home Cooking Class in Kyoto
This class is a good option for travelers who value home cooking and seasonal ingredients. Please check for vegan options before booking.
J Nijo Station Area (Central Kyoto City Area)
Nijo Station is the closest station to Nijo Castle (a World Heritage Site) and is conveniently located in the city center. A recommended plan is to visit Nijo Castle first thing in the morning, then attend a class, and finally visit Kinkaku-ji Temple in the afternoon. This plan takes advantage of Nijo Station's location and will make for an efficient and satisfying day.
Authentic Japanese Sushi Cooking Class in Kyoto
Since dashi and sushi are likely to contain animal products by default, it is necessary to check for any necessary adjustments beforehand.
K Gion Area (Central Kyoto City Area)
Gion is the most atmospheric area in Kyoto, but it tends to get crowded in the mornings, so getting there early is key. The most recommended route is to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple first thing in the morning → Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka → Classroom → Yasaka Shrine and stroll around Gion. This will allow you to fully experience the charm of Gion.
Ramen Noodle Making Experience in Kyoto
It is necessary to clearly state that you are vegan when making a reservation and to confirm that you can participate with peace of mind.
Ramen Bowl Painting & Ramen Cooking Class in Gion, Kyoto
Since the facility is not exclusively for vegans, vegan requests must be confirmed at the time of booking.
Example English message for booking
「Hello, I would like to join as a 100% vegan participant (no animal products at all, including dashi, fish, egg, or dairy). We are a couple / family with children aged XX. Is the class fully dedicated vegan and small-group? Thank you!」
Our Classroom Information
Our classroom is located in Zone B on this map.
We offer small classes of up to 4 people, use 100% plant-based ingredients, and provide English-language support in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Many couples and families have told us that our classes were "the best memory of their Kyoto trip."
If you're looking for a safe and comfortable learning environment, please come and join us.
Kyoto Green Cuisine
Final Words
This guide and map will make your vegan dining experience in Kyoto much safer and more fulfilling.
Please feel free to leave a comment or message if you have any questions!
See you in Kyoto Arashiyama!