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Known as the “Gateway to Tohoku” due to its convenient access from both overseas and major domestic cities, Sendai is a city rich in nature and steeped in history. Once a castle town developed by the famous samurai lord Date Masamune during the Edo period, this “City of Trees” offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
Visitors are drawn to a variety of attractions, including the sacred Osaki Hachimangu Shrine—one of the most powerful spiritual sites in the Tohoku region—as well as historic landmarks, traditional festivals, and scenic views that change with the seasons. From here, travelers can also easily access some of Japan’s most iconic landscapes, such as Matsushima, one of the country’s three most scenic spots, the stunning autumn colors of Naruko Gorge, and the winter frost-covered trees of Mount Zao.
In recent years, alongside these tourism assets, Sendai has been actively working to meet the dietary needs of diverse travelers, including vegetarians, vegans, and those seeking halal options. On January 20, 2025, the Sendai City Bureau of Culture and Tourism hosted a seminar titled “Responding to Diverse Food Cultures: Vegan, Halal, and More” at the Sendai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with around 20 participants from local restaurants and accommodations.
Seminar Highlights and Background
Sendai City previously published the “SENDAI Restaurant Guide for Vegans and Vegetarians, Muslims,” compiling information on local establishments that accommodate these dietary needs to ensure travelers can dine with peace of mind. Continuing this initiative, the recent seminar was held as part of the city’s 2024 fiscal year program to promote inclusive dining environments.
Led by Akihiro Shugo, CEO of Food Diversity Inc., the seminar covered global food diversity trends, key terminology, traveler expectations in Japan and Sendai, and practical tips on selecting suitable ingredients and seasonings. A key takeaway was the concept of identifying overlaps between different dietary restrictions to create universal menu items, ultimately reducing the burden on kitchen staff.
Participants shared positive feedback, with comments such as “I realized that a change in perspective can make diverse accommodations possible,” and “It’s helpful to know we can create diverse menus using ingredients we already have.”
Introducing Food Diversity-Friendly Restaurants in Sendai
Thanks to these ongoing efforts by the city, the number of restaurants offering food diversity options in Sendai is steadily increasing. Below are two notable examples:
DASHIRO
With multiple locations across Sendai, DASHIRO is a ramen shop specializing in Japan’s traditional “dashi” broth. Each branch offers a unique concept, allowing visitors to enjoy new flavor experiences with every visit. At the original Minamimachi-dori location, for example, their vegan-friendly ramen features a rich miso potage broth made entirely from vegetables.
Keyaki Café
Located in Aoba Ward, Keyaki Café is a popular local spot known for its use of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The café offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, appealing to health-conscious customers. Guests can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere along with seasonal menus and desserts.
Sendai City remains committed to enhancing its food diversity initiatives, ensuring that all travelers—from Japan and abroad—can enjoy a welcoming and inclusive dining experience. By merging tourism and food inclusivity, Sendai continues to build a more comfortable and appealing environment for global visitors.
