Many people who visit China have one question in their mind: “Is there anything vegetarian here?” China is not known for its vegetarian cuisine, as most of its population is non-vegetarian. Indian YouTuber Atharva Maheshwari also has the same question: can vegetarians survive in China? He stood in a bustling vegetable market in the city of Kunming, surrounded by unthinkable food like silkworms, scorpions, pig blood curd, chicken feet, and more. As an Indian vegetarian living in China, what started as a culture shock quickly turned into a daily culinary adventure.
From decoding Mandarin menus to discovering tofu treasures in unexpected corners, surviving—and even thriving—as a vegetarian in a meat-loving nation like China is far from impossible. But it does come with some surprises. Here’s what life looks like when you’re trying to stay meat-free in the land of dumplings and chicken.
Eating in China as a vegetarian is sometimes literally a challenge. Do you have guts? Go ahead! Chicken claws are in everything. So, can vegetarians really survive in China? Here’s the real, unfiltered story from someone who lived it.
China’s Vegetarian Life Is Real
In the video “Can Vegetarians Really Survive in China? (It’s Not What You Think!)” Indian YouTuber Atharva Maheshwari explores the availability of vegetarian food in China. Despite his Guangzhou location, he shows viewers a large vegetable market in Kunming. The purpose of the video is to show that vegetarian food is not as difficult to come across in China as many people think. He highlights the wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and regional produce as he wanders through the market.
Here’s What Atharva Maheshwari Said In His Video
Is China the worst place for vegetarians? As an Indian vegetarian living in China, my name is Atharva Maheshwari, and I’m here to clear up the rumors! I’m taking you on the ultimate culinary journey in my 2025 China travel vlog to find out if vegetarians can actually make it in China.
Forget the misconception that Chinese cuisine is exclusively meat-based. The truth is much more shocking and delightful. Come with me on an exclusive tour of Kunming’s enormous, busy Chinese vegetable market, a true vegetarian haven with more variety than many Indian marketplaces! We’ll look at everything from unusual produce you’ve never seen before to well-known veggies with a twist. Discovering the truth about eating vegetarian in China.
Asparagus, bitter gourd, bottle gourd, green onions, sweet corn, carrot, ginger, garlic, red onions, sweet potato, okra, and brinjal are among the well-known vegetables featured in the video.
You won’t believe the sheer variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, from countless types of leafy greens like bok choy and gai lan, to unique finds like lotus root, dozens of mushroom varieties (shiitake, enoki, wood ear), bamboo shoots, and giant pomelos. This is the ultimate guide for any vegetarian or vegan planning a trip to China.
In addition to offering a new and less explored viewpoint on Chinese cuisine and culture, the video gives vegetarians and vegans who are considering a trip to China some hope.
Can Vegetarians Survive In China?
In China, being a vegetarian often leads to curious stares or confused reactions. Atharva said that lots of people were not entirely aware of the vegetarianism concept, frequently asking the question, “But why no meat? Not even chicken?” However, he stresses the value of having patience and being open to discussions.
Atharva comes to the straightforward conclusion that vegetarians can live in China, but it will take work. It’s difficult, particularly in rural or small cities, but it is completely possible if you are prepared, adaptable, and have a good sense of humor. You might even develop a deep affection for tofu-based dishes that you never thought you’d enjoy.
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