Dining here on the temple premises was one of my favorite highlights when I visited Japan. The food was SO yummy and nourishing. Just wow. I dream about their eggplant dish. I love that I felt so light and zen after the meal. Service was exceptional. Thoughtful cooks and servers. They made the food an artistic experience. I highly recommend this experience to anyone, including those whom are omnivores. Best of all, we were able to enjoy the beauty of the bamboo forest and the zen temple (Tenryu-ji) after our loaded lunch. 🌱💛 Tips: Make a reservation online!

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It was truly a unique and enjoyable experience. Dining at the temple made me feel immersed in Japanese culture. We came for lunch, and the menu was light, flavorful, and very satisfying. For anyone curious about traditional temple cuisine, it’s definitely an experience worth trying. 😊

Vegan restaurant within the garden Tenyru Ji. Need to purchase entry ticket for garden section for Tenyru Ji. Entrance ticket for Temple section not required. Once inside, shoes to be taken off and place at shoe rack and staff will eventually lead to dining area when we seat on floor (low chairs are available if unable to seat on floor upon request) Set meal will be served by servers in batches. Personally, the food tasted better than it looks. Simple, but flavourful sufficiently in an understated way, but I did notice unfinished food around me, such as the grilled aubergine with miso and the tofu, which tasted like it has peanut or rice mixed in, so the reaction of the tastebuds may vary. Nevertheless its a unique dining experience and I would recommend others to try at least once in kyoto. Just reserve the cheapest set in case the food isn't your cup of tea.

Incredible food! There were several japanese people also frequently the place. I was afraid the food will be plain or touristy after reading some reviews, but not at all. Even the tofu was so flavourful ( it was sesame tofu). Every single dish was outstanding!

A culinary adventure for sure. This was one of those places where I can’t even tell you some of the things I ate but most of it was unique and delicious. The service is great and I highly recommend a reservation although people were eating there without one on a Monday afternoon in late May. This is a must do for vegans and omnivores alike!