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15 Must-Try Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo (+5 Trending Areas to Explore for Foodies)

15 Must-Try Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo (+5 Trending Areas to Explore for Foodies)

Date published: 25 March 2024

If you're a sushi lover visiting Tokyo, we've got a list of 15 must-visit sushi restaurants for you. From high-end Michelin-starred sushi bars to popular conveyor belt sushi chains, iconic long-standing shops, and buzz-worthy newcomers, there's something for everyone. Some places even accept online reservations in advance, so let's update your must-eat list pronto!

Photos: LIVE JAPAN articles (MAGURO Basara, Miura Misaki Port, Nemuro Hanamaru, Tokyo Tower

Table of Contents
  1. Authentic Japanese Cuisine at Its Finest: A Must-Try for Visitors - Sushi!
  2. Top 5 Sushi Hotspots in Tokyo & 15 Recommended Picks
  3. Ginza Sushi Recommendations: Indulge in the Exquisite Delights of High-End Sushi
  4. Shinjuku Sushi Recommendations: The Culinary Battleground of Acclaimed Sushi Joints
  5. Shibuya Sushi Recommendations: Top Picks for Delicious Sushi with Great Value for Money
  6. Ueno Sushi Recommendations: Where to Find Freshly Caught Sushi
  7. Tokyo Station Sushi Recommendations: Affordable Standing Sushi & Exquisite High-End Restaurants
  8. Enjoying Sushi in Tokyo Made Easy!

Authentic Japanese Cuisine at Its Finest: A Must-Try for Visitors - Sushi!

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0000370
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0000370

Tokyo is a food lover's paradise, and while most people have a general idea about Japanese sushi, you might still be wondering what makes it a must-try. Well, let's break down a few reasons why Tokyo's sushi scene is an absolute must-eat!

  • Sushi is an absolute icon of Japanese cuisine, with widespread recognition.
  • It's all about the freshest seafood, and Japanese seafood is among the best globally, drawing hordes of international tourists eager for a taste.
  • Even if you're not into raw fish, there are usually plenty of other options available, like tempura, grilled fish, rice bowls, and more. Plus, Tokyo is home to innovative sushi spots specializing in meat sushi.
  • Prices range from budget-friendly to extravagant, catering to all kinds of budgets, ensuring everyone can find a restaurant that suits them.
  • Tokyo is home to numerous sushi chains and Michelin-starred sushi restaurants. Whether you're after the craftsmanship of sushi artisans or simply curious about how they compare to their overseas locations, you're covered.

Japan also has an abundance of conveyor belt sushi chains, offering a wide array of choices and dining experiences. If you're curious about which chains are popular in Japan, you can read more here:

As a hub of activity, there are countless sushi restaurants scattered across every major tourist destination in Tokyo. Let's take a culinary tour of 15 sushi spots across Tokyo's top 5 popular tourist areas!

Top 5 Sushi Hotspots in Tokyo & 15 Recommended Picks

Ginza Sushi Recommendations: Indulge in the Exquisite Delights of High-End Sushi

Photo: PIXTA
Photo: PIXTA

Ginza is home to numerous acclaimed high-end sushi restaurants, where skilled sushi chefs meticulously craft dishes using top-quality ingredients. The service is impeccable, and compared to other areas, Ginza emphasizes luxury and sophistication. Many of these establishments have even earned Michelin stars. For example, Sukiyabashi Jiro, helmed by the renowned "Sushi God" Jiro Ono, is located right in the heart of Ginza. With its reputation for excellence attracting travelers from around the world, securing a reservation here can be quite challenging. If you're seeking premium sushi and an exquisite dining experience, Ginza should be your first choice!

Ginza Sushi Recommendation #1: Hina Sushi

Photo: kkday
Photo: kkday

Just a 4-minute walk from Ginza Station, you'll find Hina Sushi, a buffet-style sushi restaurant. Each piece of sushi is handcrafted by the chef upon order, ensuring freshness and quality. With a menu boasting around 60 varieties including tuna, sea urchin, salmon, and fresh shrimp, there's something for everyone. Online reservations are available at 5,000 yen per person, making it hassle-free even during peak dining hours. If you want to experience the delight of freshly made sushi in Japan, this is a must-visit spot!

Ginza Sushi Recommendation #2: Sushiya

Photo: kkday
Photo: kkday

At first glance, Sushiya might not ring a bell, but it's actually a hidden gem founded by seasoned Japanese cuisine masters. This omakase-style sushi restaurant serves up surprises and delights with every dish, as the chef crafts each with the day's freshest ingredients. This is a top recommendation if you're up for a taste of high-end menu-less omakase sushi! The chef is adept at welcoming international patrons; however, the restaurant only has a single L-shaped counter, so seating is limited. It's advisable to make an online reservation in advance!

Ginza Sushi Recommendation #3: Sushi Yuu

Photo: kkday
Photo: kkday

Sushi Yuu is another upscale omakase sushi restaurant that has earned a Michelin star for four consecutive years. In December 2023, it relocated from Roppongi to Ginza. The chef is known for innovation - from shrimp to tuna, shellfish, and sea urchin, they present a variety of fresh Japanese flavors with a twist. The chef is also known for their warm hospitality, and online reservations are available. If you have the budget to spare, indulging in a Michelin-starred experience here is indeed worth it!

Ginza Sushi Recommendation #4: Conveyor Belt Sushi - Nemuro Hanamaru

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003608
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003608

Located inside the popular Tokyu Plaza Ginza, Nemuro Hanamaru is a conveyor belt sushi restaurant where you'll spot lines of eager customers forming even before the doors open. This beloved establishment carefully selects seasonal catches, focusing on ingredients from the Nemuro region in Hokkaido. That means even those in Tokyo can savor fresh Hokkaido sushi. It's a favorite among food enthusiasts and regulars, with many praising its delicious offerings and great pricing. If you're keen to try it out, make sure to arrive early to grab a number!

Kaitenzushi Nemuro Hanamaru Ginza
  • ・Address: Tokyu Plaza Ginza 10F, 5-2-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061
  • ・Hours: 11 AM - 11 PM (last order 10 PM)
  • ・Closed: Dependent upon Tokyu Plaza closures

Shinjuku Sushi Recommendations: The Culinary Battleground of Acclaimed Sushi Joints

Photo: PIXTA
Photo: PIXTA

Shinjuku hosts various sushi restaurants, ranging from traditional counter-style sushi to conveyor belt sushi. In particular, there's an abundance of conveyor belt sushi spots like Kaiten Sushi Misaki, revamped from Misaki Port, Sushi Zanmai, Gansozushi, Numazuko, and many more. Most are conveniently located around the station and extend to Kabukicho, making them popular tourist choices due to their accessibility and affordability. For those seeking a more refined dining experience, renowned establishments like Sushi Iwase and Takumi Makoto.

Shinjuku Sushi Recommendation #1: Sushi Shiorian Yamashiro

Photo: kkday
Photo: kkday

Sushi Shiorian Yamashiro is a Michelin-starred sushi brand originating in Ginza. It specializes in serving omakase-style Edo-mae sushi, where each step, from ingredient preparation to shaping and seasoning, is performed right in front of the customers. It offers a dining experience akin to watching a performance, making it truly unique. In addition, the proprietor is highly knowledgeable about sake and will select the perfect sake pairing based on the day's offerings. Reservations are available, making it convenient for guests. If you're looking for a special, upscale sushi experience in Shinjuku, this is definitely worth a try!

Shinjuku Sushi Recommendation #2: Sushi Zanmai

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003767
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003767

Sushi Zanmai is known for its combination of affordability and quality. All sushi served here is freshly made to order, with a particular emphasis on the freshness and quality of the tuna, making it an absolute crowd favorite. Sitting at the counter lets you witness the chefs' masterful culinary skills up close. Compared to typical high-end sushi restaurants, dining here is more relaxed and budget-friendly. Plus, the ordering tablets support multiple languages, and with late opening hours, it's a popular must-visit choice for many tourists!

Sushi Zanmai Shinjuku
  • Address: Seno Building 3F, 3-18-4 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022
  • Hours: Weekdays 11 AM - 10 PM (last order 9:30 PM), Weekends and national holidays: 11 AM - 11 PM (last order 10:30 PM)

Shinjuku Sushi Recommendation #3: Hokkaido Sushi and Tempura Sushiyama Shinjuku

Photo: PR TIMES
Photo: PR TIMES

This establishment, formerly known as "KIBORI" from Hokkaido, underwent a revamp and reopened in November 2023 with a fresh concept. Combining sushi, tempura, teppanyaki, and other traditional Japanese cuisine, it presents a new dining experience. Their focus is on showcasing the finest seafood from Hokkaido and seasonal ingredients from Japan, offering exquisite handcrafted sushi and a variety of dishes like tempura and chawanmushi (steamed egg custard). Set menus are also available for those who prefer a hassle-free dining experience. The prices are reasonable, making it suitable for those who enjoy sampling various dishes in one meal or those who may not be sushi enthusiasts.

Hokkaido Sushi and Tempura Sushiyama Shinjuku
  • Address: 6F Seresa Yoei Shinjuku Building, 1-16-3 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0021
  • Hours: Lunch 11:30 AM - 3 PM (last order, food 2 PM, drinks 2:30 PM), Dinner 5 PM - 11 PM (last order, food 10 PM, drinks 10:30 PM)

Shibuya Sushi Recommendations: Top Picks for Delicious Sushi with Great Value for Money

Photo: PIXTA
Photo: PIXTA

In addition to upscale counter-style sushi restaurants, such as Sushi no Midori Shibuya, Shibuya is also home to numerous budget-friendly conveyor belt sushi places like Yu Mai and Sushi Zanmai. With dishes typically ranging from 100 to 300 yen per plate, the value here is exceptional, making it a top choice for tourists looking to indulge in sushi. Here, we'll recommend a few decent conveyor belt sushi spots in Shibuya where you can enjoy sushi without breaking the bank!

Shibuya Sushi Recommendation #1: Sushi Zanmai

Photo: GURUNAVI
Photo: GURUNAVI

Just like in Shinjuku, Sushi Zanmai also has locations in Shibuya! Offering the same combination of freshly made, affordable sushi with multilingual ordering tablets, it's a popular choice among tourists. In Shibuya, you'll find two locations: one in the Shibuya Dogenzaka Center Building and the other near the Tokyu Department Store. The former is only a few minutes' walk from the station, and it's open until 10:30 PM, with reservations available, making it convenient for late-night snacks. The latter is opposite the Tokyu Department Store, which is perfect for shopping and is open until 6 in the morning!

Sushi Zammai Shibuya Dogenzaka

Shibuya Sushi Recommendation #2: Kura Sushi

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0002946
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0002946

With international locations, Kura Sushi may be familiar to many travelers. It offers multilingual ordering tablets, a variety of classic must-try sushi dishes, an array of side dishes, delicious limited-time offerings, dishes delivered straight to your table via a conveyor belt, and self-service ordering and pickup, among other features. It combines these characteristics to provide a dining experience that caters to cultural exploration as well. What sets Kura Sushi apart is the opportunity to return five used plates for a chance to win prizes, frequently collaborating with popular Japanese companies on Japan-exclusive products. If you plan to visit, arrive early to get a seating number!

  • Kura Sushi Shibuya Station
    Kura Sushi Shibuya Station
    くら寿司 渋谷駅前店
    • Address Shibuya Dai-Ichi Kangyo Bank complex 7F,23-3, Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0042
    • Nearest Station Shibuya Station (JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / JR Yamanote Line / JR Saikyo Line / Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line / Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line / Tokyu Toyoko Line / Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line / Keio Inokashira Line)
    • Phone Number 03-6277-5601

Shibuya Sushi Recommendation #3: Kaiten-zushi Katsumidori

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003122
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003122

If you find traditional conveyor belt sushi a bit mundane and high-end counter-style sushi too intimidating, then Katsumidori is the perfect choice! While it is a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, it still offers taste and quality reminiscent of high-end sushi restaurants. The menu is incredibly diverse, featuring many options, including tuna, sea bream, salmon, shrimp, crab, and shellfish. They also serve seared sushi and tofu skin sushi, as well as side dishes like salads and chawanmushi (steamed egg custard). It's an excellent option for families and is always busy, so allocate some extra time to wait for a seat!

Kaiten-zushi Katsumidori Seibu Shibuya Store
  • Address: Seibu Shibuya A 8F, 21-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0042
  • Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM

Ueno Sushi Recommendations: Where to Find Freshly Caught Sushi

Photo: PIXTA
Photo: PIXTA

Ueno is also home to several Japanese restaurants serving up freshly caught seafood. Most of these eateries are situated between Ameyoko Market and Ueno Station. Many of them offer reasonably priced, generous portions, such as Miura Misaki Port and Numazuko Kaisho. There are also all-you-can-eat sushi restaurants available. For seafood lovers who prefer to indulge without making a special trip to Tsukiji or Toyosu, Ueno, with its accommodation and sightseeing options, is an excellent choice.

Ueno Sushi Recommendation #1: Ganko

Photo: kkday
Photo: kkday

Ganko is a local chain of Japanese cuisine restaurants primarily based in the Kansai region, with one of its Kanto area locations in Ueno. The menu mainly features set meals consisting of sushi, hot pots, and rice dishes, complemented by tempura and miso soup. The set meals typically come with fixed side dishes, saving you the hassle of deciding and ordering individually. They also offer online reservations.

Ueno Sushi Recommendation #2: Miura Misaki Port

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0002949
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0002949

Miura Misaki Port is a well-known conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Ueno. As soon as you take your seat, you'll notice a continuous stream of sushi rotating on the belt, each plate loaded with generous portions. What's surprising is the affordability; for instance, a fatty tuna nigiri sushi is priced at only 649 yen (pictured, bottom right), and a trio of assorted nigiri sushi costs 539 yen (top right). It's fresh, plentiful, and budget-friendly, earning it rave reviews. You can either choose sushi directly from the conveyor belt or place orders directly with the chefs. With a meal typically costs 3,000 to 4,000 yen, you'll leave fully satisfied!

Miura Misaki Port Ueno
  • Address: 6-12-14 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005
  • Hours: 10:30 AM - 10 PM (last order 9:30 PM)
  • Closed: Open daily

Ueno Sushi Recommendation #3: MAGURO Basara

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0004216
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0004216

MAGURO Basara is an izakaya (Japanese pub) specializing in fresh tuna delivered directly from Misaki Port in Kanagawa Prefecture. Offering a wide range of dishes including sushi, sashimi, hot pots, skewers, and fried foods, complemented by a great selection of drinks, it's perfect for pairing with alcohol. They also offer all-you-can-drink options and occasional all-you-can-eat promotions. Open late, it's a great option if you're returning to Ueno after a late-night outing or craving a midnight snack!

MAGURO Basara Ueno
  • Address: Central 21 Building 4F, 2-12-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
  • Hours: Sunday - Thursday 5 PM - 12 AM, Fridays, Saturdays, and the day before national holidays 5 PM - 5 AM
  • Closed: January 1

Tokyo Station Sushi Recommendations: Affordable Standing Sushi & Exquisite High-End Restaurants

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003611
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003611

Many large shopping areas around Tokyo Statrion house sushi restaurants, like Standing Sushi Bar Nemuro Hanamaru Marunouchi Oazo. Although it's standing-only (no seating available, customers dine while standing), it's very affordable and practical. During lunch hours, it's common to see locals dining there. If you prefer to sit and savor your meal, options like Numazu Uogashizushi Marunouchi Building Branch are available, or you can opt for high-end traditional sushi restaurants like Yoshino Sushi Honten. Here, we'll also recommend one popular standing sushi bar and one traditional sushi restaurant available for reservations.

Tokyo Station Sushi Recommendation #1: Hakodate Standing Sushi Bar Kantaro

Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003616
Photo: LIVE JAPAN article a0003616

Hakodate Standing Sushi Bar Kantaro originated in Hakodate, Hokkaido, and is a popular conveyor belt sushi restaurant. They meticulously select their ingredients, including both rice and seafood, sourced from Hokkaido, ensuring freshness and flavor. Located in the First Avenue Tokyo Station underground shopping area outside the JR Tokyo Station ticket gates, also known as "Nippon Gourmet Street," the restaurant's atmosphere is relaxed. Prices are quite affordable, and portions are generous, so you won't have to worry about filling up too quickly with just rice. If you prefer not to venture too far from Tokyo Station, this is a great option to consider!

Hakodate Tachiguizushi Kantaro First Avenue Tokyo Station
  • Address: A-7, B1F, Tokyo Station Ichibangai, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005
  • Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM (last order 9:30 PM)

Tokyo Station Sushi Recommendation #2: Imayoshi

Photo: kkday
Photo: kkday

Founded in 1958, Imayoshi stands steadfastly as a traditional sushi restaurant amidst innovations and changes in the sushi industry. Alongside classic must-haves like salmon and tuna, they specialize in rare ingredients such as conger eel and finless sole. Their lunchtime-exclusive seafood bowls are also quite enticing. They offer an omakase menu for online reservations, ideal for those who relish chef-recommended dishes. Located just a 6-minute walk from Tokyo Station's Marunouchi Underground North Exit or a 1-minute walk from Otemachi Station's Exit E1, this spot comes highly recommended for those seeking a high-quality sushi experience.

Enjoying Sushi in Tokyo Made Easy!

Tokyo is brimming with sushi restaurants, offering something for every budget, group size, and location preference. If you're dining with kids or elderly family members, consider a budget-friendly, relaxed atmosphere at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. For a romantic date or a small group outing, elevate your budget and experience the artistry of a sushi counter dining experience.

Lastly, remember to plan ahead, especially during national holidays, cherry blossom season, and summer vacation, when tourist traffic peaks. Making reservations online beforehand can save you from long waits and ensure a smooth dining experience.

*The information provided in this article is based on March 2024 data and may vary from actual circumstances.

Written by:
Tiffany YU
Tiffany YU

With a background in mass media, Tiffany pursued studied in Japan and achieved JLPT N1 certification. She now writes for different travel platforms, leveraging her communication prowess with her translation abilities to make Japanese content easily understandable. After residing in Japan for three years and gaining experience from Japanese cosmetic shops and departmental help desks, she's profoundly acquainted with the cultural nuances between Taiwan and Japan. Her journeys have spanned areas like Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and Okinawa. A frequent visitor to Japanese tourist destinations, she enjoys the local cuisine so much that she could eat Japanese ramen for every meal without tiring of it.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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