• Tofu Restaurant Saigen-in

  • (3)
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  • White Vegan
Vegan
Japanese

A vegan, traditional tea house serving hot pot tofu with small side dishes. Lovely view into the garden. Located in the grounds of Ryōan-ji so ticket needs to be bought for a small fee to enter the garden. Open Mon-Tue 11:00am-3:00pm, Fri-Sun 11:00am-3:00pm. Closed Wed. & Thu.


Venue map for Tofu Restaurant Saigen-in
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3 Reviews

First Review by lunagrains

BharathiMani

Points +92

Vegan
29 Mar 2025

An experience more than just food

This is an experience you don't want to miss while in Japan. It's situated inside a temple and you need to buy a ticket to enter the premises.
This place serves plant based Japanese cuisine. The tofu hotpot with veggies and rice is very delicious and flavorful. I have not eaten fresher tofu than this before. Two of the tofu hotpot dishes is more than enough for 3 people. Use the soy sauce literally.
More than the food the ambience is wonderful. The garden and pond are pure heaven! The tatami mats add to an authentic experience. You will need to take off your shoes and sit down on cushions.
Unlimited free green tea!
If you just have a beverage or don't order a dish per person there is a 300¥ charge.
Payment is only cash and to be made before the meal.
Completely recommended, not to be missed!

Updated from previous review on 2025-03-29

Nasuvampa

Points +1193

Vegan
22 May 2024

Great experience

Gorgeous location within the garden. We shared had the tofu dish with side vegetables and it was enough for two. The tofu was delicious.

We expected it to be more expensive! I think it was altogether 4000 yen for two people including the seating. Note that payment is cash only and you need to pay when ordering.

Pros: Beautiful garden, Tranquil ambiance, Not that expensive

lunagrains

Points +95

Vegan
17 Jun 2023

Lovely experience with great views into the garden

The tofu soup was brought in a big pot to share with small side dishes on little plates. It was a very peaceful atmosphere with only a few tables and view into the garden on both sides. Green tea is free and local sake is available on request.

Pros: Beautiful experiece, Peaceful and traditional

itsmeagain

11 Aug 2023



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