We made history running the very first vegan group trip to Japan, and it was a huge success. While Buddhism-inspired vegetarianism has been part of the Japanese culture since around the 6th and 7th centuries, "veganism" as a concept is very new. In this first episode, I provide a frame through which to understand the challenges and the threads of eating plant-based in Japan, including  the influence of Buddhism and other factors that resulted in a mostly plant-based culture for most of its history how the move toward modernizing Japan — as of 1868 — contributed to the increase in meat consumption  the regional aspect of Japanese cuisine the "foodie" aspect of Japanese cuisine, which can also lead to food rituals and ceremonies, as well as fodder for satire I also provide a number of suggestions for what to look for generally if you are traveling in Japan as a joyful vegan, including which items typically have animal products what and how to ask for vegan options where to find the best options as a vegan Enjoy!  —————— Don't forget to support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option you choose.  Try Ridwell FREE for 30 days using this link: https://get.ridwell.com/joyful-vegan  Support this podcast today at JoyfulVegan.com/Donate Visit my website: JoyfulVegan.com Join me on an all-inclusive vegan trip: JoyfulVeganTrips.com AFFILIATE PARTNERS: Nama Juicer — Use this link and coupon code COLLEEN10 and get 10% off my favorite juicer. Plaine Products — Use this link and coupon code "compassion" for 15% off my favorite zero waste bath and body products. Complement — Use this link and coupon code "joyfulvegan" and get 10% off my favorite supplements. Thank you for listening.