Top 3 Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in Japan's Olive Island, The Shodo Island!

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Experience Shodo Island’s Vegetarian-Friendly Dining With Local Flavors

Shodoshima, or Shodo Island, a picturesque island in the Seto Inland Sea of Kagawa Prefecture, is known for its olives, soy sauce, and somen noodles. As Japan’s “Olive Island,” it boasts a warm climate, stunning natural scenery, and a rich culinary heritage.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for healthier, plant-based options, Shodo Island offers delightful dining experiences that cater to all.

Here are three must-visit vegetarian-friendly restaurants on Shodo Island.

Angel Road of Shodo Island

1. Umagena-Mon at Ohkido Hotel

Umagena-Mon‘s unique signature dish “Shodoshima Nama Somen Salad” uses fresh Shodo Island somen noodles and seasonal vegetables in a refreshing salad style. Flavored with 100% Shodo Island olive oil, Sanuki lemons, and local sea salt, you can customize the seasoning to highlight the freshness of the ingredients. It’s the perfect introduction to Shodo Island’s culinary heritage.

Shodoshima Nama Soumen Salad (1,760 yen, tax-in)

2. Shodoshima International Hotel

For a luxurious experience, the vegan kaiseki course at Shodoshima International Hotel features entirely plant-based, seasonal ingredients. With dishes like vegetable sushi, simmered vegetables, and innovative uses of local yuzu and olive oil, the course reflects Japan’s culinary traditions while offering delicate vegan flavors.

Vegan kaiseki

3. Kankakei Ropeway Restaurant

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Kankakei Gorge, this vegan-friendly Olive Curry is a must-try. Made with slow-cooked beans and fresh vegetables, the dish is served with crispy roasted potatoes, eggplant, and broccoli, topped with stuffed olives for a vibrant touch. The meal perfectly captures Shodo Island’s love for olives and natural ingredients.

Olive Curry

Why Visit Shodo Island?

Shodo Island is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of nature, history, and local flavors. Known as Japan’s “Olive Island,” it is famous for its olive cultivation, soy sauce production, and hand-stretched somen noodles. Beyond its culinary delights, Shodo Island offers breathtaking scenery and cultural attractions.

The Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village, a nostalgic film set that recreates the atmosphere of early 20th-century Japan, is a highlight for history and cinema enthusiasts. Nature lovers will be captivated by Kankakei Gorge, one of Japan’s top three most beautiful valleys, where dramatic rock formations and seasonal foliage create stunning panoramic views. The Shodo Island Olive Park, with its vast olive groves and Greek-style architecture, is a popular photo spot, perfect for enjoying the island’s Mediterranean-like charm.

Getting to Shodo Island

Easily accessible by ferry from Okayama’s Shin-Okayama Port and Takamatsu Port in Kagawa, the island is only 1 to 1.5 hours away from the mainland. Ferries also run from Kobe and Himeji, making it an ideal getaway for those traveling from the Kansai region.

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or a culture seeker, Shodo Island offers a unique and enriching experience that caters to all travelers—including those looking for delicious vegetarian-friendly dining options.