Tokyo Sushi Guide 2024: Discover the Best Sushi Restaurants
As a resident of Tokyo and foodie, I will explain to foreigners why sushi in Tokyo is so good in this article.
Especially good sushi in Tokyo is made using fresh ingredients from the Tsukiji Market (now Toyosu Market).
Not only am I a native of Tokyo, but my first workplace for six years was directly near Toyosu, the location of the relocated Tsukiji fish market.
I might not be exaggerating when I claim that, ever since I became an adult, I have strolled among sushi!
Sushi abounds in Tokyo. Tokyo is definitely a city of sushi, much as the term "Edomae sushi" is a fixed expression combining Tokyo's former name "Edo" with sushi.
Tokyo's sushi sector is therefore typified by a wide range of options, from upscale, internationally recognized sushi to high-quality, long-standing local favorite tiny restaurants, reasonably priced conveyor belt sushi that's great for kids, and chic sushi bars.
I go to a variety of sushi restaurants based on my mood and budget; I go on dates and just hang out at conveyor belt sushi restaurants with friends. Tokyo has a ton of sushi options.
From a local's point of view, I will describe the features of Tokyo's sushi culture in this post, covering well-known stores in Tsukiji and Toyosu as well as locations to get good sushi at affordable costs.
When visiting Tokyo, please use this guide to savor the best sushi!
Tokyo's Sushi Culture and Fish Markets
Famous for its sushi, Tokyo is a place you really should not miss.
Behind here lies the world's biggest fish market, which sources fresh seafood taken in Tokyo Bay.
Here, I'll introduce "Edomae sushi," which promotes Tokyo's sushi culture, as well as the important Tsukiji and Toyosu markets from a local's point of view.
What is Tokyo's "Edomae Sushi"?
When it comes to sushi in Tokyo, "Edomae sushi" is famous. This refers to sushi made with fresh seafood from Tokyo Bay, sourced from markets like Tsukiji (now Toyosu).
Its characteristic style is a large piece of fish placed on top of vinegared rice, known as "nigirizushi." As the name suggests, it's a historically representative style of sushi dating back to the Edo period.
While there are various other types of sushi, please check out the related article below for more information.
Related Article: The World of Sushi in Japan: The Perfect Guide for Foreigners
The World's Largest Fish Markets: Tsukiji and Toyosu
Japan's biggest fish markets, Tsukiji and Toyosu, are supporting Edomae sushi.
When Toyosu Market opened in January 2018, it replaced Tsukiji Market, which had been the biggest fish market in the world since its founding in 1935.
Daily fish trade at Toyosu Market amounts to about 1,500 tons. Tuna is among the many fish and seafood species that are gathered from all over the nation and auctioned off. Tokyo sushi eateries and shops get the fish that are won at the market auctions.
Toyosu Market also has facilities for public viewing and dining, making it a popular tourist spot. However, it's a bit disappointing that the modernized Toyosu Market has lost the traditional market atmosphere of old.
In fact, there are still old-fashioned sushi shops remaining around the Tsukiji area, so I recommend visiting there as well.
Tokyo also has other high-quality markets like Adachi and Ota, in addition to Tsukiji and Toyosu. These markets still retain their lively, traditional ambiance, so it's worth visiting early in the morning if you're staying nearby.
Styles of Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo
Sushi restaurants can be found everywhere in Tokyo, but they can broadly be categorized into four main styles:
- High-end, formal sushi restaurants
- Affordable and fun conveyor belt sushi
- Standing sushi bars for casual sushi and drinks
- Stylish sushi bars for creative sushi
For a high-end experience, Ginza and Nihombashi are recommended, while various entertainment districts offer casual conveyor belt sushi options.
If you're unsure, head to Toyosu or Tsukiji, where fresh fish is readily available – it's a sure bet.
4 Recommended Sushi Restaurants in Toyosu/Tsukiji for Authentic Sushi
Go to Tsukiji and Toyosu if you want to taste real sushi prepared with fresh ingredients.
While Tsukiji boasts a large number of long-standing sushi bar-style stores, Toyosu is renowned for its upscale sushi restaurants. I'll outline four suggested locations in Toyosu and Tsukiji where you may savor the freshest fish of the day here.
But be aware of the hours that many Toyosu stores open in the morning to coincide with the market's hours and close by noon.
Daiwa Sushi: A Renowned Toyosu Sushi Shop
Source: Tabelog by Daiwa Sushi
Within Toyosu Market proper, "Daiwa Sushi" is a very well-known sushi restaurant. High-end "sushiya" style with counter seating alone, their sushi prepared with premium tuna is truly amazing.
It's an expensive restaurant—each guest will spend between 6,000 and 7,000 yen—but one benefit is that there are no reservations needed.
It's so popular that, according to my multiple visits, you have to wait in line starting at 6 AM to acquire a seat. Still, you'll see why after you give it a shot. The delay and expensive pricing are justified for this well-known Toyosu store.
<Store Information>
Address: 6 Chome-3-2 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061
Closed: Wednesdays, Sundays
Phone: 050-3144-0220
Hours: 6 AM–1 PM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daiwazushi/
Yamazaki: A Popular Toyosu Shop Offering Chirashi Sushi
Source: Tabelog by Yamazaki
From its long-standing, more than 40-year-old location in Tsukiji, "Yamazaki" moved to Toyosu Market.
Their "chirashizushi" is equally well-known as their nigirizushi. A meal called chirashizushi is made with different seafood and other items strewn over vinegared rice.
You can eat without reservations for 3,000–4,000 yen per person, although there can be a wait.
I heartily suggest the chirashizushi set, which includes a delectable miso soup. It is much advised since you can fully enjoy the excellent fresh seafood and it is more filling than nigirizushi.
<Store Information>
Address: 3F, Administrative Facility Building, 6 Chome−6−1 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061
Closed: Wednesdays, Sundays
Phone: 03-6633-0215
Hours: 7 AM–1:30 PM
Website: http://www.sushi-yamazaki.com/
Sushichou: A Popular Standing Sushi Restaurant in Tsukiji
Source: Tabelog by Sushichou
Just a 1-minute walk from Tsukiji Station, "Sushichou" is a standing sushi restaurant that's hugely popular with both locals and tourists. They offer delicious, fresh sushi at affordable prices starting from just 90 yen per piece, making it a great value for the standing sushi bar style.
Even after the market's relocation to Toyosu, it remains popular due to its excellent cost performance. I always stop by here whenever I visit Tsukiji and enjoy their fresh sushi.
While there's often a line, the turnover is quick, so the wait isn't as long as you might think. No reservations are required, making it an accessible, top-notch spot.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-10-9 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6226-5422
Hours: 11:15 AM–8 PM
Website: https://x.gd/wnYoe
Okame: A Local Sushi Restaurant in Tsukiji
Source: Tabelog by Kotaro
"Okame" is a tiny, super local standing sushi bar right next to Tsukiji Station. With a counter that can barely fit four people, this cozy spot packs a punch with its exceptional taste. The appeal lies in enjoying fresh, Tsukiji-quality fish at reasonable prices.
However, please note that they're only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. One of my favorite ways to spend time here is savoring delicious sushi while engaging in friendly conversation with the owner in the quintessentially local atmosphere.
If you're looking to experience a local vibe in Tsukiji, this standing sushi bar is highly recommended.
<Store Information>
Address: 4 Chome-8-7 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045
Closed: Mondays to Thursdays
Phone: Unavailable
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM
Website: Unavailable
5 Tokyo Sushi Restaurants Featured in the 2024 Michelin Guide
Being awarded Michelin stars is the highest honor for Japanese sushi chefs.
Here, I'll introduce five sushi restaurants in Tokyo that received Michelin stars in the 2024 guide. While they may be difficult to secure reservations for, these are top-notch establishments worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.
Harutaka: A Three-Michelin-Star Restaurant
"Harutaka" in Ginza is the sole restaurant in the Tokyo guide for 2024 to be awarded three Michelin stars. Being a representative of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo and Ginza, it is a well-known place that the locals like.
Every sushi item is outstanding, but the conger eel was the best I've ever had—it was unmatched.
Though it's on the expensive side, at 60,000–70,000 yen, the sushi is very worth it. Only by phone can reservations be made, and it is almost impossible to get a table without making a call a month ahead. Still, it's worthwhile to keep trying to have dinner at this outstanding restaurant.
<Store Information>
Address: 6F, 8-3-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 03-3573-1144
Hours: 5 PM–11 PM
Website: http://www.ginza-sushi.com/harutaka.html
Kobikicho Tomoki: A Two-Michelin-Star Sushi Restaurant in Ginza
Source: Tabelog by Morgan Oyuki
"Kobikicho Tomoki" is a two-Michelin-star sushi restaurant also situated in Ginza. Fantastic sushi prepared with premium ingredients is served in a chic interior setting.
The pleasant manner of the sushi chef is another highlight that adds to the cozy atmosphere in addition to the great flavor.
Although it's expensive—between 40,000 and 60,000 yen—I'm always amazed by the vinegared rice's flavor as well as the quality of the components.
The omakase course sizes are generous, which is a nice touch and lets you really indulge—unusual for a posh restaurant.
They do accept reservations online, so it's worth trying even though it's a popular location and getting one can be challenging.
<Store Information>
Address: 4 Chome-12-2 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 03-5550-3401
Hours: 5:30 PM–10 PM
Online Reservation: https://omakase.in/r/cm336173
Kanesaka: A Two-Michelin-Star Restaurant Offering Lunch
Source: Tabelog by pateknautilus40
An other two-Michelin-star sushi restaurant in Ginza is called "Kanesaka".
The attraction of this place is that, except on Mondays, you may have their sushi at lunch as well, although upscale sushi places are only open in the evenings. Locals especially like Kanesaka's lunch menu among Tokyo's two-star eateries.
Lunch is more reasonably priced at 20,000–30,000 yen while dinner costs 50,000–60,000 yen.
At Kanesaka, reservations are necessary and it can occasionally be challenging to get a table even two weeks in advance, so I advise booking early. They also prohibit camera photography, making this a terrific place for people who want to enjoy their sushi without interruptions.
<Store Information>
Address: B1F Ginza Misuzu Building, 8-10-3 Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 03-5568-4411
Hours: 12 PM–2:30 PM, 6 PM–10:30 PM
Website: http://www.sushi-kanesaka.com/
Online Reservation: https://restaurant.ikyu.com/116677
Sushi Ichijo: An Accessible One-Michelin-Star Sushi Restaurant
Source: Tabelog by Sushi Ichijo
Located near Tokyo Station in the Higashi-Nihombashi area, "Sushi Ichijo" is a one-Michelin-star sushi restaurant.
In addition to its excellent taste, it's relatively affordable among Michelin-selected establishments, and reservations are more accessible, which adds to its appeal.
With a budget of around 20,000-30,000 yen, it's a great option for those seeking top-quality Edomae sushi at a reasonable price.
When I visited, I was able to fully indulge in their sushi despite it being a high-end restaurant. It left an impression of classic Edomae sushi, making it a recommended spot for those wanting to casually enjoy Michelin-recognized sushi.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-1-3 Higashinihonbashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0004
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 03-6661-1335
Hours: 12 PM–2 PM, 5:30 PM–9:30 PM
Online Reservation: https://x.gd/kj5AJ
Oku: Enjoying a One-Michelin-Star Sushi Restaurant in Asakusa
Source: Tabelog by Sato Kazumasa
Did you know there's a hidden gem one-Michelin-star sushi restaurant called "Oku" in the famous sightseeing area of Asakusa?
In addition to its exceptional taste, the chef and the restaurant's ambiance are also highly praised. It's only open for dinner, with a budget of 20,000-30,000 yen, which is relatively reasonable compared to the high-end spots I've introduced.
However, their irregular closures and phone-only reservation policy make it quite challenging for visitors to secure a table. If you have a friend living in Tokyo, I recommend asking them to join you here.
<Store Information>
Address: B1F Ginza Misuzu Building, 8-10-3 Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Irregular
Phone: 03-6802-4474
Hours: Irregular
Website: Unavailable
3 Recommended Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants for Affordable Delicious Sushi in Tokyo
While high-end sushi restaurants are great, for a casual sushi experience in central Tokyo, I also recommend conveyor belt sushi, where you can find many delicious yet affordable options. Here, I'll introduce three of my favorite spots.
Katsu Midori: Delicious Conveyor Belt Sushi in Shibuya
Source: Katsu Midori official website
In Shibuya, the center of Tokyo, sits the well-known conveyor belt sushi restaurant "Katsu Midori."
Both Tokyo residents and foreign visitors love their specialty, which is providing excellent sushi at affordable costs.
Seasonally changing delicacies include tuna and other rotating selections served conveyor belt sushi style. Among the wonderful things is that they have a range of platters for tuna, starting at 140 yen for two pieces and going up to 600 yen. They are present in Shibuya as well as Ikebukuro and Meguro, two other Tokyo locations.
Though its popularity typically results in a 30-minute to 1-hour wait during lunch and dinner hours, I think the wait is well worth it. I think this restaurant does a great job of balancing tasty flavors with cost performance.
<Store Information>
Address: Seibu Shibuya, A Building, Floor 8, 21-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-5728-4282
Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Website: https://katumidori.co.jp/
Toriton: A Conveyor Belt Sushi Chain from Hokkaido
Source: Tabelog by deion388
Situated further north than Tokyo, Hokkaido is renowned for having some of the finest fish in Japan. In Tokyo, "Toriton" lets you to have reasonably priced, excellent Hokkaido sushi.
Situated next to the Tokyo Skytree, it makes the ideal resting place when sightseeing. If each person has a budget of 2,000–4,000 yen, you can have excellent sushi at a very cheap price.
They give queue numbers, so you may wait with comfort even though it's always busy and well-liked among Tokyo residents. I had waited in line and eaten there before, and the fresh Hokkaido foods left me quite happy.
<Store Information>
Address: 6F, Tokyo Skytree Town Solamachi, 1 Chome−1−2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045
Closed: None
Phone: 03-5637-7716
Hours: 11 AM–9:30 PM
Website: http://toriton-kita1.jp/shop/soramachi/
Kura Sushi: A Conveyor Belt Sushi Chain with Games
Source: Tabelog by Reiko Fukuyama
"Kura Sushi" is an affordable and delicious conveyor belt sushi chain found across Japan.
What's particularly fun is that after you've finished your plates, you can play a game called "Bikkura Pon," where you may win character merchandise, making it hugely popular with families with children.
With plates starting from around 130 yen each, it's very reasonably priced, and there are about 60 locations across Tokyo. You'll likely find one in most major entertainment districts. Simply search for "Kura Sushi" on Google Maps near your accommodation to locate the nearest shop.
I often visit with my niece, and in addition to the affordable, delicious sushi, the fun games are irresistible for kids. It's a joy for adults to be able to join in the fun as well.
You can find their shop list at the URL below.
Website: https://shop.kurasushi.co.jp/tokyo
2 Stylish Sushi Bars to Enjoy in Tokyo
While a relatively recent trend compared to sushi restaurants and conveyor belt sushi, I'll lastly introduce two stylish sushi bars in Tokyo where you can enjoy sushi in a chic atmosphere.
SHARI: A Popular Sushi Bar for Creative Rolled Sushi
Source: Tabelog by SHARI
Ginza's chic and laid-back "SHARI" sushi bar. Made with premium ingredients, their imaginative wrapped sushi is not only tasty but also wonderfully adorable and beautiful.
For a sushi bar, the prices are fair at 2,000–4,000 yen for lunch and 6,000–7,000 yen for dinner. There are no needs for reservations.
I particularly suggest their weekend lunch bundles, which go from 2,000 to 4,000 yen and include opulent sushi.
When I visit with friends, one of the pleasures is getting to enjoy a leisurely meal in the chic interior setting.
<Store Information>
Address: 8F, Arbore Ginza Building, 2 Chome−4−18 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 050-3138-4665
Hours: 5 PM–10:30 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 11:30 AM–3 PM, 5 PM–10:30 PM
Website: https://kinkasushibarizakaya.com/jp/
KINKA Sushi Bar Izakaya: Enjoying Sushi in a Metropolitan Atmosphere
Source: KINKA official website
In Shibuya, "KINKA Sushi Bar Izakaya" presents a chic and contemporary sushi bar environment. For those that want drinks with their sushi, they have a large assortment of Japanese sake and cocktails in addition to fresh, excellent sushi with exquisitely prepared plates.
They have delightfully priced "Kaisen Don" (seafood rice bowls) for 1,200–1,500 yen at lunch.
At 2,200 yen for six pieces, their omakase nigirizushi is fairly affordable when compared to many high-end sushi restaurants.
Though there's no need to make reservations, lunch and supper may see a wait because it's a popular location. But enjoying drinks and sushi in Shibuya's chic setting is a great pleasure.
<Store Information>
Address: 2F. 3-10, Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6452-5258
Hours: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5–11 PM
Website: https://kinkasushibarizakaya.com/jp/
FAQ About Tokyo Sushi
Lastly, from a local's perspective, I'll answer some common questions foreign visitors may have about sushi in Tokyo.
What is the etiquette for eating sushi in Tokyo?
When eating sushi in Tokyo, please observe the following etiquette:
- At high-end sushi restaurants, it's customary to eat with your hands, but using the provided chopsticks is also acceptable.
- Dip the topping (neta) part of the sushi in soy sauce, not the rice.
- It's considered good manners to eat the sushi promptly after it's served.
- Photography may not be allowed at some high-end sushi restaurants, so it's best to ask the chef before taking pictures.
- At conveyor belt sushi restaurants, avoid returning plates you've taken to the conveyor belt.
What drinks pair well with sushi?
Japanese sake and green tea pair well with sushi. Especially at high-end sushi restaurants, they often provide sake that complements the sushi. Recently, sushi bars offering wines that pair nicely with sushi have also been increasing. I personally enjoy white wines that go well with sushi.
Are there any tours in Tokyo to fully experience sushi?
There are several tours in Tokyo that allow you to fully experience sushi. For example, the following tours are recommended:
"Sushi & Sake Tasting Cooking Class with a Visit to Local Supermarket in Tokyo" by Magical Trip
Source: Magical Trip
In this 4-hour tour offered by us at Magical Trip, you can experience making rolled sushi and more. What's unique is that it starts with visiting a local supermarket with your guide to procure the ingredients.
Rolled sushi is easy to make, so you can even serve it to your family and friends back home!
While it doesn't include visits to famous markets like Tsukiji or Toyosu, it's reasonably priced at around $90 USD.
With sake tasting and a kids' playroom included, I recommend this tour for families to enjoy as well.
Click here for more details: Sushi & Sake Tasting Cooking Class with a Visit to Local Supermarket in Tokyo
"Tsukiji Fish Market Walking Food Tour in Tokyo" by Magical Trip
Source: Magical Trip
This is another 3-hour tour by us at Magical Trip that explores the Tsukiji area.
In addition to visiting temples and shrines in Tsukiji, you can enjoy a food tour of the area's hidden gems, including delicacies like seafood rice bowls, if not sushi itself.
While Toyosu isn't included, this tour is recommended for those who want to experience the traditional market atmosphere of Tsukiji rather than the more touristy Toyosu.
Click here for more details: Tsukiji Fish Market Walking Food Tour in Tokyo
"Toyosu Inside Market Tour & Sushi Making Workshop" by True Japan Tour
Source: True Japan Tour
True Japan Tour's one appeals because it combines a sushi-making session with a visit of Toyosu Market.
You'll get to see sections of the market that are usually closed to the general public. Making traditional nigirizushi and gunkan sushi will be covered in the workshop.
It's expensive—about 50,000 yen per person—and learning nigirizushi and gunkan in a single session could be challenging. For people who wish to have a closer look at sushi culture, I do suggest this tour.
Click here for more details: Toyosu Inside Market Tour & Sushi Making Workshop
This article went into great detail about Tokyo's sushi culture and gave suggestions for many different sushi restaurants.
Tokyo has an amazing range of sushi restaurants, from fancy ones with moving belts to standing sushi bars and stylish sushi bars.
For help finding a sushi restaurant in Tokyo that suits your tastes, please use this list. Your trip to Japan will definitely include a memorable sushi adventure!
