Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience in Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, Japan

Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience

Outty Ranking 58 5.0 · 10 traveler reviews2.5 hoursFrom ¥17,600
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Outty Ranking

58/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 10 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience worth booking?

Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience is a 2.5-hour experience in Tokyo, Japan, from ¥17,600 per person. It scores 58 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 10 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
58 / 100
Rating
5/5 (10)
Duration
2.5 hours
From
¥17,600 per person

Shojin ryori is a traditional vegetarian cuisine that has been eaten in Japan for more than 700 years. Known for its creative use of vegetables, legumes, and grains, it is deeply connected to Japanese religion and health and the history of Japanese cuisine. In this program, you will learn how to create shojin ryori with an accredited English-speaking instructor who will explain further about this vegetarian cuisine’s many faces. Example menu: 1. Sesame Tofu 2. Flavored Japanese Mustard Spinach with Nori Seaweed 3. Kyoto-style Teriyaki Vegetables (broiled in a sweet soy sauce marinade) 4. Vegetable Tempura 5. Rice with Assorted Grains 6. Japanese-style Dashi Broth Soup 7. Sweet Tofu Dumplings

What you get

    About this experience

    Shojin ryori is a traditional vegetarian cuisine that has been eaten in Japan for more than 700 years. Known for its creative use of vegetables, legumes, and grains, it is deeply connected to Japanese religion and health and the history of Japanese cuisine. In this program, you will learn how to create shojin ryori with an accredited English-speaking instructor who will explain further about this vegetarian cuisine’s many faces. Example menu: 1. Sesame Tofu 2. Flavored Japanese Mustard Spinach with Nori Seaweed 3. Kyoto-style Teriyaki Vegetables (broiled in a sweet soy sauce marinade) 4. Vegetable Tempura 5. Rice with Assorted Grains 6. Japanese-style Dashi Broth Soup 7. Sweet Tofu Dumplings

    What's included

    Included

    • Ingredients
    • Nationally accredited tour guide-interpreter
    • Vegetarian cooking lesson

    Not included

    • Transportation to the venue

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Tokyo

    Please meet your instructor at the main entrance of the Kikai Shinko Kaikan building on the 1st floor. (The building is right opposite side of Tokyo Tower.) In case you cannot find the instructor, please visit True Japan Tour (Room# B208) on the B2 floor of the building.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Please meet your instructor at the main entrance of the Kikai Shinko Kaikan building on the 1st floor. (The building is right opposite side of Tokyo Tower.) In case you cannot find the instructor, please visit True Japan Tour (Room# B208) on the B2 floor of the building.

    Options you can book

    • Shojin Ryori Experience

    • Shojin Ryori & 3 Kinds of Tea

      Duration: 3 hours 3 Kinds of Tea Tasting: Included in this option is a tasting program of 3 kinds of Japanese teas.

    • Shojin Ryori & 5 Kinds of Tea

      Duration: 3 hours 20 minutes 5 Kinds of Tea Tasting: Included in this option is a tasting program of 5 kinds of Japanese teas.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    True Japan Tour

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements or requests in advance of the program.

    Photos

    Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience in Tokyo, photo 2Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience in Tokyo, photo 3Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience in Tokyo, photo 4Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience in Tokyo, photo 5Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience in Tokyo, photo 6Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience in Tokyo, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 10 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Food and drink

    5 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Traveler reviews

    10 verified traveler reviews for Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    10
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    Camper51024526042 · September 2026

    Great experience

    Fantastic! They told me how to do it, they showed me how to do it, and the let me do it! I really believe I could cook some of the spectacular dishes!! Very well done and fun!

    via Tripadvisor

    David_L · December 2025

    Authentic Japanese cuisine experience!

    If you can spare two hours of your trip learning how to make authentic Japanese cuisine beyond sushi or ramen, this is the real deal. The wife and I aren't experts in Japanese cooking by any standard, but we do our share of Japanese style cooking at home and we were looking for a chance to learn more specifically about "shojin ryori" or vegan Zen Buddhist cooking. This session delivered! We learned what kind of ingredients are used in shojin ryori, like vegetarian dashi stock for soups, flavorful Japanese vegetables like burdock root, "tofu" from arrowroot powder and freshly ground sesame seeds. The kind and patient instructors helped us through the recipes, and even though we only spoke a little Japanese their instructions and cheerfulness shone through! Thank you for a wonderful experience and for recipes and techniques we will take home! And as a plus, you can visit Tokyo Tower right afterward!

    Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review. We’re so happy to hear you enjoyed learning about shojin ryori and that the experience became a memorable part of your trip.

    via Viator

    Nan_H · November 2025

    Delicious and fun cooking class experience!

    This was a very special part of our Tokyo visit. We had the best time cooking and learning about shojin zen vegetarian food. This class, the instructor, and meal prepare were all delightful and it was nice to slow down and do a quiet activity away from the hustle of most tourist destinations. I'm glad that true Japan tours listed this class on viator or we never would have found such a cool experience. They have many class options available and I would love to return and try another class. Thank you so much!

    Response from the operator: Thank you very much for joining the Zen Buddhist Vegetarian (Shojin Ryori) Cooking Experience. We are truly delighted to hear that you enjoyed the class. We also offer other cultural activities such as sushi making, origami, and tea ceremony, so we would be very happy to welcome you again on a future visit.

    via Viator

    67mindaugasb · August 2025

    Delicious, Peaceful dive into Japanese Buddhist cuisine

    This Shojin Ryori cooking workshop was a wonderful experience. We suited up in aprons and chef hats, then learned about the spiritual roots of this traditional Buddhist cuisine from our kind and knowledgeable host. Everyone got to take part in preparing the dishes, with clear explanations at every step. The soy “meatballs” were surprisingly savory, but the standout was the creamy sesame tofu topped with sweet miso and wasabi — unforgettable. It was hands-on, meditative, and delicious. We left with full bellies, new recipes, and a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture. Highly recommended!

    via Tripadvisor

    415emilijak · August 2025

    Unique and super fun learning opportunity!

    We had an amazing time during the experience! I especially recommend it to travelers looking for truly unique activities. As it was my first time cooking shojin ryori I was a little worried about how difficult it would be or that I wouldn't enjoy the taste much. However, with Kuniko-san as our teacher each step was explained thoroughly and in an easy to understand way, so it was super beginner friendly! Also, Kuniko-san has great English skills, was very cheerful and funny. Instead of being just a cooking class, it was also a deeply cultural experience. Kuniko-san told us about the spiritual significance of this way of cooking, what meaning and health benefits the ingredient have. We also received a printout of all the recipes to try again at home. It was really interesting! Finally, the taste. To my surprise, it exceeded all expectations! Despite using simple and few ingredients, all the dishes were delicious, flavoursome and filling. I especially liked the soy meatballs and sesame tofu! Definitely give this tour a go!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    2.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun
    Price range
    ¥17,600 to ¥31,680
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    4
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by True Japan Tour, who run 33 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.8.

    See everything True Japan Tour runs

    Why this scores 58

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)34
    Booking momentum (14% weight)27
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)82
    Local standing (8% weight)57
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tokyo.

    How much does Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience cost?

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    Prices start at ¥17,600 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tokyo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience take?

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    Plan for about 2.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tokyo is not rushed.

    Is Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 58 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 10 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Tokyo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience?

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    Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tokyo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tokyo and add a light layer if any part of the 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tokyo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Tokyo?

    +

    Tokyo is less a city than a stack of neighborhoods with completely different opening hours. A guided food crawl through Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho gets you past the no-tourist curtains, while the day trips west to Hakone and Fuji need an early start to be worth the fare. Our ranking weighs guide quality heavily here, because in Tokyo the guide is the product. On Outty we rank every Tokyo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Best of Shinjuku: Izakaya Food Tour (3-4 Stops, 14+ Tastings), Matcha Making Class in Tokyo with Authentic Japanese Sweets Set, Tokyo: Asakusa Senso-ji Temple & Old Town Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

    +

    Late March to May for blossom, October to November for clear Fuji views. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Tokyo?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience?

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    Included: Ingredients; Nationally accredited tour guide-interpreter; and Vegetarian cooking lesson. Not included: Transportation to the venue. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience?

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    Please meet your instructor at the main entrance of the Kikai Shinko Kaikan building on the 1st floor. (The building is right opposite side of Tokyo Tower.) In case you cannot find the instructor. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Tokyo. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience?

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    Across 10 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    What booking options are available for Zen Buddhist Vegetarian(Shojin Ryori): Cooking Experience?

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    There are 3 options to choose from, including Shojin Ryori Experience, Shojin Ryori & 3 Kinds of Tea, Shojin Ryori & 5 Kinds of Tea. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

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