Shibuya Sushi The 10 Best Kaitenzushi Restaurants in Tokyo

Shibuya, a bustling district in Tokyo, is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary scene, particularly when it comes to sushi. For those seeking an authentic and affordable sushi experience, kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants are a must-visit.

Top Kaitenzushi Restaurants in Shibuya

1. Ganso Zushi Shibuya Center Gai Ten

Located just a short walk from Shibuya Station, Ganso Zushi offers a classic conveyor belt sushi experience with a friendly staff and affordable prices. This restaurant is known for its high-quality sushi and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Kaitenzu Shiginza Onodera Musuko Shibuya Ten

This restaurant stands out for its authentic Edomae sushi prepared by skilled chefs right in front of you. The proximity to Shibuya Station (just 2 minutes from the A5b exit) makes it an ideal spot for a quick and delicious meal.

3. Uogashi Nihon-ichi Shibuya Dogenzaka

Uogashi Nihon-ichi is a popular chain with a newly reopened outlet in Shibuya Dogenzaka. This standing sushi bar offers an English menu and the opportunity to watch sushi chefs prepare your order at lightning speed. The interactive experience and fresh seafood make it a standout in the area.

4. Kura Sushi Harajuku

Although technically in Harajuku, Kura Sushi is close enough to Shibuya to be worth mentioning. Known for its guaranteed freshness, Kura Sushi offers a unique experience with its automated ordering system and high-quality sushi at affordable prices.

5. Toriton

Toriton brings the freshness of Hokkaido seafood to the heart of Tokyo. The chefs here meticulously choose and prepare the seafood, ensuring each piece is as fresh as possible. The friendly staff and daily specials make this restaurant a hidden gem.

6. Uobei

Uobei is a popular choice among locals and visitors, known for its affordable prices and high-quality sushi. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including seasonal specials, and is particularly popular among women.

7. Gurume Kaitenzushi

Located in the heart of Shibuya, Gurume Kaitenzushi offers a wide range of sushi options at reasonable prices. The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and the chefs' attention to detail in preparing each dish.

8. Sushi Choshimaru

Sushi Choshimaru is another excellent option in Shibuya, offering a diverse menu that includes both classic and innovative sushi dishes. The restaurant's focus on freshness and quality ensures a satisfying dining experience.

9. Nemuro Hanamaru

While primarily known for its Hokkaido branches, Nemuro Hanamaru also has a presence in Tokyo. This restaurant offers both conveyor belt and standing-style formats, with a menu that creatively showcases local seafood. The standing-style format provides a more immersive experience with chefs preparing dishes right before your eyes.

10. Heiroku Sushi

Heiroku Sushi brings the flavors of Sendai to Shibuya, offering seasonal sushi that highlights the best of each season's ingredients. The restaurant's commitment to using only the freshest ingredients ensures a delightful dining experience.

How to Navigate Kaitenzushi Restaurants

For those who do not read Japanese, navigating the menu can be challenging. However, many kaitenzushi restaurants now offer English menus or pictures to help. You can also ask the staff for recommendations or point to the dishes on the conveyor belt that you recognize.

Ordering Without Wasabi

If you prefer your sushi without wasabi, you can ask the staff by saying "Wasabi nashi, onegaishimasu" (わさびなし、お願いします), which means "No wasabi, please".

Identifying Seafood

To identify various types of seafood on menus that don't include English writing, it's helpful to learn some basic Japanese phrases. For example, "Maguro" means tuna, "Sake" means salmon, and "Tako" means octopus. You can also look for pictures or ask the staff for assistance.

Tips for Visiting Kaitenzushi Restaurants

Making Reservations

While many kaitenzushi restaurants do not require reservations, some popular spots may have long wait times. Using online reservation platforms can help you secure a seat, especially during peak hours.

Dining Etiquette

When dining at a kaitenzushi restaurant, it's customary to take only the dishes you plan to eat from the conveyor belt. Leaving uneaten dishes on the belt is considered impolite. Also, be mindful of the noise level and respect other diners.

Enjoying the Experience

Kaitenzushi restaurants offer a unique and interactive dining experience. Enjoy watching the chefs prepare your meal, try different types of sushi, and don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or special requests. The friendly staff are there to ensure you have a memorable dining experience.