Question
I’m visiting Japan for the first time and I love Japanese cuisine. I’m curious about trying new dishes but I don’t know how to express dietary restrictions, such as “I am vegetarian.” How do I communicate this in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
私はベジタリアンです。
Watashi wa bejitarian desu.
I am vegetarian.
This phrase is essential for communicating dietary preferences or restrictions in Japan. Watashi wa means “I am,” and bejitarian is the Japanese adaptation of “vegetarian.” Using watashi wa bejitarian desu allows you to politely inform restaurant staff of your dietary needs.
For further clarification, you can say 肉（にく）は食（た）べません (Niku wa tabemasen), which means “I don’t eat meat.” If you also want to avoid fish, you can add 魚（さかな）も食べません (Sakana mo tabemasen), meaning “I don’t eat fish either.”
Use these phrases to ensure your dining experiences in Japan meet your dietary preferences.
