Top 20 Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo Japan

Conveyor belt sushi, known as "kaiten-zushi" in Japanese, offers a unique and affordable dining experience that is a must-try when visiting Tokyo. With numerous options available, choosing the right conveyor belt sushi restaurant can be overwhelming, but here are some top recommendations and detailed insights to help you make the most of your sushi adventure.

Top Conveyor Belt Sushi Chains in Tokyo

1. Sushiro

Sushiro is one of the most popular conveyor belt sushi chains in Japan, known for its delicious sushi rice and wide selection of sushi toppings. The Sushiro Minami Ikebukuro branch is particularly convenient, located just a 3-minute walk from the station. Sushiro stands out for its consistent quality and reasonable prices, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Kura Sushi

Kura Sushi is another well-known chain that guarantees freshness. It offers a diverse menu and is recognized for its high-quality sushi. Kura Sushi is a great choice if you prioritize freshness and variety in your sushi experience.

3. Nemuro Hanamaru

Nemuro Hanamaru is a highly recommended conveyor belt sushi restaurant, especially for those seeking fresh fish from Hokkaido. With multiple locations in Tokyo, Hanamaru is known for its exceptional quality and freshness. The sushi here is often described as "amazing," with standout items like sweet shrimp and scallops.

4. Uobei

Uobei is a unique conveyor belt sushi chain that focuses on hygiene and cleanliness. Instead of the traditional revolving conveyor belt, Uobei uses a non-revolving system to ensure that sushi is served fresh and safely. This chain is particularly popular among families and those concerned about hygiene. Prices range from 110 yen to 160 yen per plate, and the menu includes a variety of items beyond sushi, such as french fries and desserts.

5. Sushi Choshimaru

Sushi Choshimaru is a regional Tokyo conveyor belt sushi chain that may not have as many locations as the national chains but makes up for it with high-quality sushi and top-notch service. Fans of Sushi Choshimaru go out of their way to enjoy the sushi here, which includes rotating specials that are always worth checking out.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Miura Misakiko Ueno Branch

Miura Misakiko is a lesser-known conveyor belt sushi chain with a branch in Ueno, Tokyo. This restaurant is famous for its tuna, particularly the Maguro Nakaochi, which is frequently featured in the media. Despite being only 100 yen, the portion is voluminous and delicious, making it a must-try.

Morimori Sushi Trie Keio Chofu Branch

Morimori Sushi is another hidden gem with a branch in Chofu, Tokyo. While the prices may be slightly higher than other conveyor belt sushi restaurants, the quality of the sushi toppings from the Hokuriku region makes it well worth the visit. Standout items include nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) and hotaru ika (firefly squid).

Heiroku Sushi

Heiroku Sushi is known for its seasonal flavors from Sendai. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It is a great option for those looking to try something different from the standard conveyor belt sushi fare.

Tips for Dining at Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants

Understanding the Menu

Conveyor belt sushi restaurants often feature a variety of seafood items that may not be labeled in English. Knowing some basic Japanese phrases can help you navigate the menu. For example, asking for sushi without wasabi can be done by saying "Wasabi nashi, onegaishimasu".

Identifying Seafood

Since the menu items are displayed on the conveyor belt, it's helpful to know how to identify different types of seafood. Common items include maguro (tuna), salmon, and sujiko (salmon roe). Understanding these can enhance your dining experience and ensure you try the items you want.

Etiquette and Process

When dining at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, it's important to follow basic etiquette. This includes taking plates from the conveyor belt, eating the sushi immediately, and pressing the red blinking button to return the serving machine to its position. Also, be mindful of the time the sushi has been on the belt to ensure freshness.

Pricing and Value

Affordability

Conveyor belt sushi restaurants are known for their affordability. Prices typically range from 100 yen to 500 yen per plate, although inflation has been pushing these prices upwards. Despite this, the value for money remains high, with many restaurants offering a wide range of options at reasonable prices.

Specials and Seasonal Items

Many conveyor belt sushi restaurants offer rotating specials and seasonal items. These can include fresh seafood from various regions, such as Hokkaido or Sendai, and are often worth trying for their unique flavors and freshness.

By exploring these top conveyor belt sushi restaurants in Tokyo, you can experience a unique and delicious dining adventure that is both affordable and memorable. Whether you're looking for freshness, variety, or a unique dining experience, there's a conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Tokyo that's sure to satisfy your cravings.