Tokyo's Sushi Bars
When you're in Japan, visiting the numerous conveyor belt sushi bars is an essential experience...
When you're in Japan, visiting the numerous conveyor belt sushi bars is an essential experience...
The principle is straightforward:
- Sushi and maki rolls are placed on small plates whose color or pattern determines the price.
- You take whatever you'd like from the plates passing by, and at the end the server counts the number and type of plates. Sushi and maki are prepared right in front of you, and you can even order specific items by asking the chefs.
- You also have a hot water tap and green tea bags in front of you to enjoy with your meal (complimentary with your sushi).
- In a small shared square container in front of you, there are pickled ginger pieces. Right next to it is soy sauce.
Frequently asked questions
In Tokyo's conveyor belt sushi bars (kaiten-zushi), each plate has a different color or pattern that corresponds to a specific price. At the end of your meal, the server counts the number and type of plates in front of you to calculate your bill. Prices typically range from 100 to 500 yen per plate.
Yes, in most conveyor belt sushi bars in Tokyo, you can order directly from the chefs working in front of you. Some establishments also offer touch-screen tablets for placing orders, particularly in larger chains like Sushiro or Kurasushi.
At conveyor belt sushi bars in Japan, you'll typically find a hot water tap and complimentary green tea bags, soy sauce, and pickled ginger (gari) at your place. These accompaniments are included in your meal at no extra charge.
Tokyo is full of kaiten-zushi options for every budget. Popular chains include Sushiro, Kurasushi, Hamazushi, and Kappa Sushi, which have locations throughout the city. For a more authentic experience, independent sushi bars in neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa offer premium-quality offerings.
In the vast majority of conveyor belt sushi bars in Tokyo, green tea is indeed complimentary. A hot water tap is installed at your seat, accompanied by green tea bags, allowing you to prepare your beverage throughout your meal at no additional cost.
