Kyoto Yudofu: Gentle Hot Tofu, Best Ways to Eat It, and Where to Try Near Nanzenji

Yudofu That Colors Kyoto’s Winter — Simple Yet Deeply Flavorful

Kyoto has many traditional dishes, but when it comes to popular winter gourmet food in Kyoto, yudofu stands out.

It’s a dish of warm tofu rising with steam, enjoyed simply with dashi and condiments, and is known for being healthy and warming.

This article introduces the history of yudofu, popular shops in Kyoto, and recommended ways to eat it.

What is Yudofu? — A Simple but Deep Kyoto Taste

Basic information about yudofu

Yudofu is a dish where tofu is warmed in kombu dashi and eaten with ponzu or condiments.

In Kyoto in particular, yudofu around the Nanzen-ji area and the Saga-Arashiyama area is famous,

and many tourists visiting Kyoto in winter enjoy a warm bowl of yudofu.

Details — Main ingredients: tofu, kombu (kelp), water. Seasonings: ponzu, soy sauce, sesame sauce. Condiments: green onion, momiji oroshi (grated daikon with chili), yuzu, shichimi togarashi (seven-flavor chili pepper)

Main regions: Kyoto (especially the Nanzen-ji and Saga-Arashiyama areas)

The History of Yudofu and Its Connection to Kyoto

1. Kyoto’s yudofu evolved from shojin cuisine

Kyoto’s yudofu originally developed as shojin (Zen Buddhist vegetarian) cuisine.

In particular, monks at Nanzen-ji began warming and eating tofu as a way to obtain nutrition without eating meat,

and this was the beginning of yudofu.

2. The yudofu culture grew in the Edo period

During the Edo period, Kyoto tofu makers continued research to “make even more delicious tofu”,

and a rich-flavored, smooth and refined “Kyo-tofu” (Kyoto-style tofu) was born.

Along with that, yudofu spread among the general public and became a Kyoto specialty.

Delicious Ways to Eat Yudofu and Recommended Condiments

1. Classic way to eat

Put kombu in a pot, add water, and heat it.
When the kombu softens, add the tofu and warm it (do not boil vigorously).
Scoop up the warmed tofu and eat it with ponzu or sesame sauce and condiments.

2. Recommended condiments

Yudofu is a simple dish, but you can enjoy a variety of flavors just by changing the condiments!

Momiji oroshi — has a gentle spiciness and pairs perfectly with ponzu. Yuzu peel — aromatic and refreshingly flavored. Shichimi togarashi — recommended when you want a bit of a spicy kick. Goma dare (sesame sauce) — great for those who like a rich, savory flavor.

3. A slightly luxurious way to enjoy

At Kyoto yudofu specialty restaurants, it’s also recommended to enjoy yuba (tofu skin) or namafu (steamed wheat gluten) together!

Also, pairing yudofu with sake is one of the Kyoto-style ways to enjoy the dish.

Recommended Restaurants in Kyoto Where You Can Enjoy Yudofu

1. Famous shops around Nanzen-ji

When you think of yudofu in Kyoto, the area around Nanzen-ji is famous!

After touring the historic temple, it’s recommended to relax and enjoy yudofu.

Okutan (Nanzenji branch) (a long-established shop founded over 370 years ago)
Junsen (enjoy meals while viewing a beautiful garden)
Nanzenji Hotaru (quiet and calming atmosphere)

2. Famous shops in the Saga-Arashiyama area

You can also enjoy delicious yudofu in the popular tourist area of Saga-Arashiyama.

Saga Tofu Inaho (enjoy with views of Arashiyama)
Yudofu Sagano (relax in a quaint, atmospheric interior)

3. Machiya-style yudofu specialty restaurants

Restaurants where you can enjoy yudofu in traditional Kyoto machiya (townhouse) settings are also popular.

Tofu Ryori Toyouke Chaya (a popular shop near Kitano Tenmangu)
Kyo Tofu Fujino (taste handmade Kyo-tofu)

Practical Information for Travelers

1. Best season to eat yudofu?

Yudofu is a winter dish, but in Kyoto many restaurants serve it from autumn through spring.

Eating yudofu during the autumn leaves season (November) or amid the snowy scenery at Nanzen-ji (January–February) is especially delightful!

2. Can you eat yudofu while walking around?

In Kyoto, light snacks made with Kyo-tofu are also popular.

For example, you can enjoy fried yudofu like tofu croquettes or tofu dengaku (tofu with sweet miso).

3. Where to buy Kyo-tofu as a souvenir?

Tofu suitable for yudofu can be purchased at specialty shops like Kyo Tofu Fujino or Otoko Mae Tofu.

You can also find it at supermarkets and roadside stations, so you can enjoy Kyoto’s flavors at home!

Summary and Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Yudofu is a Kyoto winter specialty that evolved from shojin (Buddhist) cuisine.
Although simple, the dish offers many flavor variations through different condiments and sauces.
Many famous yudofu shops are found around Nanzen-ji and Saga-Arashiyama.
It’s recommended to eat yudofu from autumn through winter!