The latest edition of the Michelin Guide to fine dining in Kyoto and Osaka now includes a special section for the State of Wakayama. Japan Michelin Tire Co. lists 500 restaurants in the 2022 edition of the Michelin Guide Kyoto Osaka + Wakayama. The highest three-star rating includes six restaurants in Kyoto and three in Osaka, but no new listings are included.

Two stars were given to 19 restaurants in Kyoto and 11 restaurants in Osaka, including Numata, a tempura restaurant in Osaka’s Kita district for the first time. Vegan Ramen Uzu, a noodle shop in the Nakagyo district of Kyoto that does not contain animal products, was included in the Bib Gourmand category. Villa Aida in Iwade has become one of only two restaurants to be awarded the highest rated two-star restaurant in the state.

“Inspectors had to reschedule due to changes in restaurant opening hours and other circumstances, but were able to visit them to provide review,” Gen Sudo, head of Michelin’s Japanese arm, said during an online conference.