Question
I’m planning my first trip to Japan and am very excited to try authentic Japanese cuisine. However, I am a vegetarian and would like to know how to communicate this in restaurants. How do I say “I am vegetarian” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
私はベジタリアンです。
Watashi wa bejitarian desu.
I am vegetarian.
When dining out in Japan, it can be important to inform the restaurant staff of your dietary preferences, especially if you’re a vegetarian. “Watashi wa” means “I am”, and “bejitarian” is the Japanese adaptation of the word “vegetarian”. It’s useful to know that many traditional Japanese dishes include meat or fish-based products, so you might also want to say:
肉（にく）と魚（さかな）は食（た）べません。
Niku to sakana wa tabemasen.
I do not eat meat or fish.
Using these phrases can help ensure you get meals that meet your needs during your stay in Japan. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
