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100% vegan ramen near Ginkaku-ji. Nothing animal-derived in the kitchen, desserts included. Handmade sesame and shoyu ramen with Kyoto vegetables, colorful gyoza, seasonal small plates, plant-based sweets. Gluten-free noodles. Women-owned. Open Mon-Wed 11:30am-6:00pm, Fri-Sun 11:30am-6:00pm. Closed Thu.
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16-3 Kitashirakawa Kubotacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan, 606-8266
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- Accepts credit cards
- Free Wi-Fi
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Last update on 30 Aug 2026 by KOKU_Vegan
Update business info -
Added by KOKU_Vegan on 16 Dec 2025
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17 Reviews
First Review by KOKU_Vegan
ProfP
Points +472
Amazing place to eat!! - Edit
We were looking for a nice place to eat lunch and found this on Happy Cow. I was with my Japanese friend, and we were both greeted warmly in our own language. As we were looking through the menu, we were offered a choice of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including their own home brewed sodas. I chose the Tomato and Habanero soda. It had a decent amount of spice, but it certainly was not overwhelming. We both ordered a mixed rice platter with "soy meat". While that was being prepared, we received a small cabbage salad. Both the salad and the main dish were delicious.
Read moreThe waiter was a 4th year student at Kyoto University, studying calligraphy. He showed us some photos of his amazing work.
We had a very pleasant meal. I would certainly go back again if I had the chance to do so.
Pros: Fast, friendly, bilingual service., Home brewed sodas with a wide range of flavours., Pleasant decor.
Cons: You may need to call ahead. It's quite small.
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for sharing such a thoughtful review! We’re delighted that you and your friend felt warmly welcomed in both English and Japanese, and that you enjoyed the tomato and habanero fermented soda, cabbage salad, and mixed rice platter with soy meat.
Read moreWe’re also so happy that you enjoyed talking with our team member and seeing his calligraphy. Conversations like these make the time we share with our guests especially meaningful✨
Thank you as well for mentioning our atmosphere and friendly service. As KOKU is a small restaurant, calling ahead can certainly be helpful during busy times. We would love to welcome you and your friend back whenever you have another chance to visit Kyoto 😊
Guest
pascal_penguin
Points +25
An incredible experience - Edit
I have spent way too long figuring out what to write to give the people running this restaurant justice to the experience they provided us. So here comes a gushing from my brain.
Read moreWe kept them open until 6 pm as we thought that was their closing time. On their sign it said 5 pm though. Sorry Naoya! Thank you for being incredibly lovely though.
We ended up following Naoya's recommendation so we all got ramen with a side dish and their own fermented soda. We also got some Sake and desserts. The tomato ice cream was especially lovely if you are interested in different flavours and nothing overly sweet.
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a heartfelt and thoughtful review! Please don’t worry at all about the closing time—we were truly happy to have you with us. Naoya was also very happy to read your warm words😊
Read moreIt means so much to hear that you trusted Naoya’s recommendations and enjoyed the ramen, side dishes, our homemade fermented sodas, sake, and desserts together. We’re especially delighted that the tomato ice cream stood out to you. We created it for guests who enjoy discovering unique flavors without too much sweetness, so your comment made us very happy.
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful evening with us. We hope to welcome you all back to KOKU whenever you visit Kyoto again 🌿✨
Guest
fordph0714
Points +39
Awesome ramen, sweet people - Edit
Yummy ramen.
Read moreThey made a small mistake (late giving side dish) and more than made up for it by giving us an extra side dish, which they didn't need to do, and which also tasted great.
Very sweet and diligent people at this shop.
Pros: Ramen, Dessert, Sweet people
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for your kind review 😊
Read moreWe're sorry the side dish was slow in reaching your table — and thank you for being so gracious about it. It means a lot that the extra one felt like a gift rather than a bother.
We're really glad the ramen and the dessert were good for you, and thank you for your warm words about our team. They were so happy to read this.
We'd be so happy to welcome you back the next time you're in Kyoto 🍮
Guest
natsudidi
Points +386
Delicieux +++++ - Edit
100% vegan, personnel ultra sympa, et absolument délicieux Ramen au sésame les meilleurs qu’on a pu gouter !!! Les gyoza étaient très bon aussi. Le financier au matcha sympathique. Le jus fermenté a la tomate épicée c’était pas trop à mon goût (choisi par la personne avec qui j’étais) mais généralement je n’aime pas trop ce genre de boisson ! Deco mignonne, légumes locaux, je valide c’est un 10/10.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-07-21
KOKU_Vegan
Merci beaucoup pour ce si gentil commentaire ☺️
Read moreNous sommes vraiment heureux que les ramen au sésame et les gyoza vous aient plu, et que le financier au matcha vous ait fait plaisir lui aussi.
Pour le jus fermenté à la tomate épicée : nous préparons chaque fois un mélange différent, selon les fruits de saison les plus beaux du jour, et il n'y a presque jamais deux fois la même boisson. Il y aura donc sûrement une saveur plus douce qui vous attendra la prochaine fois.
Merci également pour vos mots sur notre équipe et sur les légumes de Kyoto. Ce serait un vrai plaisir de vous revoir du côté du Ginkaku-ji 🥬
Guest
alex107651
Points +79
Full of flavour 🥰 - Edit
Restaurant is 100% vegan- they have removed their one vegetarian desert off the menu.
Read moreKOKU was full of flavour. The gyoza was some of the best I’ve ever had. The ramen was fresh and delicious….i didn’t want my bowl to end. Very satisfied.
They also do take away bento boxes which we will be ordering for our hike. (Will update post)
Updated from previous review on 2026-07-11
Pros: Flavour , Freshness , Friendly
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for this lovely review 😊
Read moreWe're so happy that the gyoza were among the best you've had, and that you didn't want the bowl to end! The Kyoto vegetables change with the season, so the ramen will look a little different next time.
Thank you as well for mentioning that the whole menu is plant-based now — it's good to have that clear for people.
We hope the bento made for a good hike, and we'd be so happy to see you again when you're next in Kyoto 🗻
Guest
naysmbp
Points +31
Great bento! - Edit
Went to a conference where KOKU supplied the vegan bento and they were delicious! Lots of variety and locally sourced ingredients- highly recommend!
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-07-03
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for your kind review ☺️
Read moreWe're really happy the bento were enjoyed at the conference. Preparing them for a whole room of people is a different kind of day for us, so it's lovely to know they landed well.
The vegetables come from around Kyoto and change with the season, so no two boxes are ever quite alike.
If you're ever near Ginkaku-ji, we'd be so happy to welcome you to the shop itself for a bowl of ramen 🍚
Guest
yaniku
Points +228
Ramen and gyoza - Edit
I took a ramen and some gyoza. Both were perfect. Best gyoza I had so far in Japan! The staff is also very friendly.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-06-24
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for your kind words 😊
Read more"Best gyoza so far in Japan" is a wonderful thing to read! We fold them here by hand, and the vegetables inside change with the Kyoto season, so they look a little different through the year.
Thank you also for your warm words about our team — they were really happy to hear it. We'd be so happy to see you again the next time you're in Kyoto 🌱
Guest
happilyvegansarah
Points +63
Most amazing ramen we've ever tasted - Edit
We'd rate well over 5 stars. We tried the sesame ramen as well as the soy ramen. Both were absolutely delicious. Flavours and textures were perfectly balanced. The dishes lived true to Koku's philosophy. We also tried the amazing Gyoza which was packed with flavour, and the three vegetable sides: carrot rapee, fermented potato salad with Sansho miso, and the marinated Enoki mushroom with simmered Kombu. To drink we enjoyed a homemade ginger ale and the organic matcha latte with soy over ice. A truly wonderful meal. We were really welcomed by the gracious staff. Highly recommend for lunch. Only 10-minutes walk from the Philosopher's Path.
Read morePros: Balanced flavours in everything we tried, Kind staff and welcoming atmosphere, We'll located to the Philosopher's Path
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for your incredible review! 🌿✨
Read moreReading your thoughtful description of the ramen, gyoza, vegetable dishes, and drinks truly made us smile.
We’re especially touched that you felt the dishes reflected KOKU’s philosophy. Creating balanced flavors, celebrating vegetables, and offering a warm experience are all things we care deeply about, so your words mean a great deal to us.
Thank you also for taking the time to mention so many of the dishes and drinks you enjoyed. We’re delighted that the sesame ramen, soy ramen, homemade ginger ale, and matcha latte all became part of a memorable meal 😊
Your kindness and support mean the world to us. We hope to welcome you again someday when you return to Kyoto 🍜💚✨
Guest
negevdirect
Points +35
Impressive - Edit
Impressive food. Lovely people. Great atmosphere. Five stars all the way.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-04-28
Pros: Ramen, Service, Calm atmosphere
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for updating your review and for your continued support! 😊🌿
Read moreWe’re truly happy to hear that you enjoyed the ramen, the service, and the calm atmosphere.
Your kind words about the food, our team, and the overall experience mean a lot to us.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience again.
We hope to welcome you back someday for another relaxing meal in Kyoto 🍜✨💚
Guest
HugoIan
Points +990
Beautiful place and amazing ramen - Edit
Loved the sesame ramen, super tasty. Gyozas were above average, but not as the best ones in had back in Tokyo. The place is tiny but cozy. The quality of the food is amazing. A bit in the expensive side.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-03-26
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review!
Read moreWe’re really happy you enjoyed the sesame ramen.
We also appreciate your honest feedback about the gyoza and pricing — it helps us continue to improve and create a better experience.
We hope to welcome you again when you’re back in Kyoto!
Guest
Emilidieschnidde
Points +10
Huge recommendation! - Edit
Honestly the best Ramen we ever tasted and the service there is great. They are so sweet! If you ever are in Kyoto, this is the first place I recommend visiting!
Read moreKOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for the huge recommendation!
Read moreWe’re truly happy to hear it was the best ramen you’ve ever tasted — that means so much to us.
Your kind words about our service really made us smile.
We hope to welcome you again whenever you’re back in Kyoto! 😊
Guest
Sixteenjones
Points +410
Lovely place - Edit
Just had matcha (which was perfect) and matcha financier which was beautiful. Lovely owners. Imma happy vegan here!
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-03-19
Pros: Cozy environment , Matcha, Lovely service
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much!
Read moreWe’re really happy you enjoyed the matcha and the matcha financier✨
Your “happy vegan” comment made us smile 😊
Hope to see you again soon!
Guest
Elkuchos
Points +16
Best vegan ramen - Edit
Completely vegan cafe. Very good ramen and lovely people.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-03-11
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for your kind review!
Read moreWe’re really happy you enjoyed the ramen and your time with us.
Your words mean a lot to our team☺️
Guest
Tsukimi
Points +8206
Very yummy - Edit
Very good ramen and gyoza with selected local ingredients. acozy atmosphere and very lovely staff. Please support this women-owned ramen business! 💚
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-03-09
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for your kind and supportive words💚
Read moreWe’re really happy you enjoyed the ramen, gyoza, and the local ingredients we carefully select.
It means a lot to us that you mentioned our women-owned business — your support truly encourages our team.
We hope to welcome you again soon!
Guest
brina516
Points +39
Chill vibes and fantastic ramen - Edit
I had the sesame ramen gyoza set, and my friend had the eggplant donburi, and everything was so. Yummy. Omg. The cafe was quiet, peaceful, and the food was divine. Highly recommend!
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2026-01-28
KOKU_Vegan
Thank you so much for the lovely review!
Read moreWe’re so happy you enjoyed the sesame ramen gyoza set and the eggplant donburi — great choices!
We’re glad you felt the chill, peaceful vibe and loved the food.
Thanks for the recommendation, and hope to see you again soon!
Guest
YukoSuga
Points +19
The best vegan ramen I’ve ever had - Edit
The ramen is completely plant-based, but the flavor is anything but light. The vegetable broth has real depth, with a nice balance of umami that feels very Japanese and comforting. It doesn’t try to “replace” meat — it just stands on its own.
Read moreI also loved how fresh and colorful the vegetables were. You can tell everything is prepared with care, not just thrown on top. The handmade vegan gyoza were a great side and definitely worth ordering.
The space is small and calm, perfect for a relaxed lunch break while walking around the Ginkaku-ji area. It feels like a place made by people who genuinely care about what they’re serving.
If you’re looking for honest, well-crafted vegan ramen in Kyoto, this place is an easy recommendation.
Pros: Flavorful, well-balanced vegan ramen with real uma, Fresh, thoughtfully prepared vegetables and handma, Relaxed, cozy vibe — great for a quiet break
Cons: Small space with limited seating, Not a huge menu, but everything feels intentional
Guest
KOKU_Vegan
Points +65
A hidden gem for vegan ramen lovers in Kyoto.🌱🍜 - Edit
KOKU Vegan Ramen is a small, calm café near Ginkaku-ji, perfect for taking a peaceful break while exploring the city. The atmosphere is warm and minimalist, making it easy to relax and truly enjoy the food.
Read moreThe ramen here is 100% plant-based, yet incredibly deep and satisfying. The broth is made entirely from vegetables and carefully crafted using a blend of four different Japanese soy sauces, creating a rich umami flavor that feels both elegant and comforting. You would never guess it’s vegan.
They also offer a rich sesame ramen, made with freshly ground sesame and aromatic ingredients like garlic and ginger — smooth, nutty, and very well balanced. Gluten-free noodles are available, which is a big plus.
Toppings feature beautifully prepared Kyoto vegetables, each cooked with care, adding color and seasonal character to the bowl. Handmade vegan gyoza and small vegetable side dishes are also available and pair perfectly with the ramen.
If you’re looking for authentic Japanese flavors without animal products, this place is a must-visit. It’s clear that a lot of thought, love, and technique go into every dish.
Pros: Deeply flavorful and satisfying 100% vegan ramen w, Carefully prepared Kyoto vegetables and high-quali, Calm, cozy atmosphere — a perfect place to relax n
Cons: Small café with limited seating, so it can fill up, Short opening hours compared to larger restaurants
Guest
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