Dining Out with Allergies & Dietary Restrictions in Japan
Navigating restaurants in Japan with severe allergies or strict diets (Vegan, Halal) can be challenging because Japanese culinary culture relies heavily on hidden ingredients like Dashi (bonito fish broth), Soy Sauce (which contains wheat), and Mirin (sweet cooking alcohol).
💡 Tips for Communicating with Restaurant Staff:
- Dashi Warning: Even vegetable dishes (like boiled spinach or miso soup) almost always contain fish flakes (katsuobushi) or pork extract. Always show your card to confirm.
- Soba Allergy Alert: Buckwheat allergy can be fatal in Japan. If you have a severe soba allergy, avoid noodle shops where udon and soba are boiled in the same hot water vat.
- Download Offline: Use the "Save Image (PNG)" button to keep this card in your smartphone camera roll so you can present it even inside basements or rural areas without Wi-Fi.