WhereToFindTheBestSushiInKyoto

Kyoto, known for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite culinary scene, offers a plethora of exceptional sushi experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. From traditional edomae-style sushi to innovative and modern interpretations, Kyoto's sushi restaurants are a must-visit for any sushi enthusiast.

Top Sushi Restaurants in Kyoto

Sushi Matsumoto

Located in the heart of the Gion District, Sushi Matsumoto is renowned for its edomae-style sushi, a traditional method that involves marinating the fish in soy sauce or vinegar to enhance the natural flavors of the seafood. This restaurant prides itself on using the finest ingredients sourced from local markets in Kyoto.

Address: 570-123, Gionmachi-Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Closed on Tuesday)
Average Price: Dinner around 20,000 JPY, Lunch around 9,000 JPY.

Izuju

Near the iconic Yasaka Shrine, Izuju is a historic restaurant that has been serving Kyoto-style sushi since the early 20th century. This style is characterized by the use of cured or cooked toppings and lesser use of raw seafood. Izuju is particularly famous for its sabazushi (mackerel sushi) and inarizushi (sushi rice wrapped in sweet tofu skin).

Address: 292-1 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Thursday, Wednesday).

Ganko Sushi

Ganko Sushi is a popular sushi restaurant chain with multiple locations across Kyoto, known for its high-quality sushi and reasonable prices. The Ganko Sanjo Honten, located in the heart of downtown Kyoto, is particularly recommended for its convenient location and extensive sushi selection.

Address: Japan, 〒604-8004 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nakajimacho, 101 がんこ京都三条本店地階
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM.

Shimizu

Tucked away in Pontocho Alley, Shimizu offers an intimate dining experience with exceptional Japanese cuisine. This restaurant is known for its expertly prepared sushi, crafted with the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets. The cozy ambiance and bustling energy of Pontocho Alley make for a memorable dining experience.

Address: Shimizu-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 600-8025
Opening Hours: Available for late-night dining, but specific hours vary.

Kikyo Sushi

Located in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, Kikyo Sushi is a local favorite known for its remarkable sushi offerings. This small restaurant provides a unique tasting experience with a diverse menu featuring both traditional favorites and innovative creations. The relaxed vibe and excellent service make it an inviting destination for sushi lovers.

Address: Japan, 〒604-0071 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Daimonjicho, 油小路通丸太町下る43-2 大文字町43
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Closed on Thursday, Wednesday).

Unique Sushi Experiences

Sushi Mitsumi

For an elevated and elegant sushi dining experience, Sushi Mitsumi is highly recommended. Located in the heart of Gion, this small restaurant offers a sushi kaiseki course for dinner, featuring nigiri sushi and a la carte dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The unique setting includes a counter carved from a 200-year-old cypress tree.

Address: In the heart of Gion, near Yasaka Shrine
Price: 16,500 yen per person (tax included).

Gion Kawamoto

Gion Kawamoto is a family-owned restaurant that offers an omakase sushi kaiseki 10-course meal for 10,000 yen per person. Each menu is curated based on seasonal ingredients and includes dishes such as appetizers, soup, fried and grilled dishes, dessert, and saba sushi flavored with yuzu citrus vinegar.

Address: 4-minute walk from Gion Bus Stop or 8-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station near Yasaka Shrine
Price: 10,000 yen per person (tax included).

Wasabi

Wasabi takes great pride in the freshness of its ingredients, purchasing seafood directly from markets located at ports along coastal Japan. The restaurant offers various kaiseki courses ranging from 5,280 yen to 9,250 yen per person, including options for table seating and counter seating.

Address: About a 5-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station, near Yasaka Shrine
Price Range: 5,280 yen to 9,250 yen per person.

Budget-Friendly Options

Daiki-Suisan Kaiten-Zushi

For a more affordable sushi experience, Daiki-Suisan Kaiten-Zushi is a great option. Located near Kyoto Station, this conveyor belt sushi restaurant offers high-quality sushi at a reasonable price.

Address: 721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Average Price: Dinner around 1,400 JPY.

Kaitenzushi Ginza Onodera Kyoto

Another budget-friendly option is Kaitenzushi Ginza Onodera Kyoto, which offers Edomae-style sushi prepared with first-class ingredients sourced from the Toyosu market in Tokyo. This conveyor belt sushi restaurant provides a luxurious atmosphere despite its affordable prices.

Address: Located in the heart of Kyoto
Opening Hours: Varying hours, but generally open throughout the day
Price Range: Around 5,000 JPY to 10,000 JPY.

Special Mentions

Sushi Wakon

For a luxurious sushi experience, Sushi Wakon, located in the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, is a standout. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers prestigious Edomae sushi in an enchanting setting, blending hotel elegance with traditional Japanese beauty.

Address: 445-3 Myohoinmaegawacho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0932, Japan
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 8:15 PM, 8:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Price Range: Around 40,000 JPY to 49,999 JPY.

Each of these restaurants offers a unique and memorable sushi experience, making Kyoto a paradise for sushi lovers. Whether you are looking for traditional edomae-style sushi, innovative creations, or budget-friendly options, Kyoto has something to satisfy every palate.