Update: Since recording this episode, Masaki has pivoted Ume from restaurant listings to sharing Japanese vegan recipes on Instagram.
In today’s episode, we’ll be talking to Masaki, the founder of Ume, a pioneering food discovery platform helping vegan and vegetarian travelers in Japan.
She’ll be sharing her personal journey from becoming vegetarian to creating Ume, and why it’s so important to have accurate, reliable information when navigating Japan’s unique food culture. We’ll also dive into some of the challenges plant-based travelers face in Japan, how supermarkets and convenience stores can be hidden gems, and the meticulous process Ume uses to verify vegan-friendly restaurants.
By the end of this episode, you’ll come away with practical tips for eating vegan in Japan, a deeper understanding of Japanese food culture, and an inside look at how Ume is reshaping the travel experience for plant-based visitors.
⛰️ Our 2026 Kilimanjaro trip is confirmed! Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime vegan group trek up Africa’s tallest mountain. Not climbing? Check out our new Partner Package for non-climbers.
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