Where to Find the Best Sushi in Kyoto?
Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital, is not only a hub of rich history and culture but also a haven for sushi lovers. Unlike the fast-paced sushi scenes of larger cities, Kyoto's sushi offerings are deeply rooted in local traditions and seasonal ingredients. Here, you'll find a diverse range of sushi experiences, from prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy, family-run shops.
Each place tells a story of Kyoto's culinary heritage, showcasing the skillful art of sushi-making passed down through generations. This city, with its serene temples and picturesque streets, invites you to discover some of the finest sushi in Japan, each bite reflecting the meticulous care and cultural depth of Kyoto's vibrant food scene.
Experience the art of Kazarimaki sushi rolls in Kyoto with this private, hands-on cooking class.
Top Sushi Restaurants in Kyoto You Must Visit
1. Sushi Iwa (Kyoto City Center)
Sushi Iwa, located in the heart of Kyoto city, is an iconic sushi restaurant that has been serving traditional Japanese sushi for decades. It is known for its exquisite presentation and the quality of its fresh ingredients. The skilled chefs at Sushi Iwa are masters of their craft, creating pieces of sushi that are not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Unleash your inner sushi artist with our Art Sushi Roll cooking class in Kyoto!
Visitors to Sushi Iwa can expect a diverse menu featuring various types of sushi, from classic nigiri and maki rolls to more unique offerings like uni (sea urchin) and toro (tuna belly). The restaurant is also known for its omakase menu, a multi-course meal where the chef selects and prepares the dishes based on the best and freshest ingredients available that day.
Address: 〒600-8422 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Nishikiyamachidori Shijo Agaru Tachiurinishimachi 570-123, Japan
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Closed on Sunday)
2. Sushi Matsumoto (Gion District)
Sushi Matsumoto is a renowned sushi restaurant in the Gion District of Kyoto, known for its intimate setting and exceptional sushi. The restaurant is run by Chef Matsumoto and his wife, who together create an inviting atmosphere and a memorable dining experience.
The menu at Sushi Matsumoto features a variety of sushi made with the finest ingredients sourced from the local markets in Kyoto. The restaurant prides itself on its edomae-style sushi, a traditional method that involves marinating the fish in soy sauce or vinegar. This process brings out the natural flavors of the seafood, resulting in sushi that is full of depth and complexity.
Address: 570-123, Gionmachi-Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Closed on Tuesday)
3. Izuju (Near Yasaka Shrine)
Located near the iconic Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto, Izuju is a historic restaurant that has been serving delicious sushi since the Taisho era (early 20th century). The restaurant is particularly famous for its Kyoto-style sushi, characterized by the use of cured or cooked toppings and lesser use of raw seafood.
Experience an intimate glimpse into the heart of Japanese cuisine.
Izuju's menu includes delicacies like sabazushi (mackerel sushi) and inarizushi (sushi rice wrapped in sweet tofu skin), both of which are traditional dishes in Kyoto-style sushi. With its inviting atmosphere and the rich history that accompanies each dish, Izuju provides visitors a unique opportunity to experience an authentic taste of Kyoto.
Address: 292-1 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Thursday, Wednesday)
4. Ganko Sushi
Ganko Sushi is a popular sushi restaurant chain with multiple locations across Kyoto. Known for its high-quality sushi and reasonable prices, it offers an approachable entry point to the world of Japanese cuisine. Each location provides a diverse menu with a wide variety of sushi options, ensuring there is something for every palate.
The Ganko Sanjo Honten, located in the heart of downtown Kyoto, is particularly recommended for its convenient location and extensive sushi selection. The Ganko Kyoto Station branch also stands out for its traditional Edo-period setting amidst the modern city center, offering sukiyaki and kaiseki courses alongside sushi.
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
5. Shimizu (Pontocho Alley)
Shimizu is a notable restaurant tucked away in Pontocho Alley, one of the most atmospheric streets in Kyoto. This narrow alley, situated between Shijo-dori and Sanjo-dori, is packed with various eateries and is especially known for its vibrant nightlife. Shimizu stands out among these establishments, offering an intimate dining experience and exceptional Japanese cuisine.
Explore Kyoto's historic Pontocho and Gion Shirakawa areas in an evening food walk.
At Shimizu, guests can enjoy expertly prepared sushi, crafted with the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets. The cozy ambiance of the restaurant, coupled with the bustling energy of Pontocho Alley, makes for a memorable dining experience. Whether you're after a late-night snack or a full sushi feast, Shimizu provides a unique taste of Kyoto's culinary scene.
Address: Shimizu-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 600-8025
6. Kikyo Sushi (Nakagyo Ward)
Kikyo Sushi, conveniently located in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, is a local favorite renowned for its remarkable sushi offerings. This small restaurant prides itself on providing a unique tasting experience of the world-famous Japanese dish, sushi. Visitors can savor the diverse sushi menu, featuring both traditional favorites and innovative creations.
The commitment to quality at Kikyo Sushi is evident in every dish, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients used in the preparation of the sushi. The relaxed vibe of the restaurant, combined with its excellent service, makes it an inviting destination for sushi lovers. Whether you're a local or a tourist exploring Kyoto, Kikyo Sushi delivers an authentic and memorable culinary experience.
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)
7. Musashi Sushi (Downtown Kyoto)
Musashi Sushi, located in downtown Kyoto, is a popular sushi restaurant known for its affordable and tasty offerings. With more than a thousand reviews on TripAdvisor, the restaurant has earned a reputation for delivering an enjoyable dining experience. The simplicity of ordering and the uniformly priced plates at ¥137 add to the uniqueness of the restaurant.
Dive into the vibrant culinary world of Kyoto with our exciting daytime tour of the historic Nishiki Market.
At Musashi Sushi, guests can choose from over 50 items, each prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Despite the low cost, the quality of the sushi is not compromised, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, Musashi Sushi provides a genuine taste of Kyoto's sushi culture.
Address: Asty-road, Kyoto Station Hachijo-guchi, 8-3, Higashishiokoji
Opening Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 9:45 p.m. (Last orders at 9:30 p.m.)
8. Sushi Shigetomi (Central Kyoto)
Sushi Shigetomi, a hidden gem in Central Kyoto, is an acclaimed sushi restaurant that has garnered rave reviews from patrons. According to TripAdvisor, it's rated 4.5 out of 5 and ranks impressively at #146 out of 16,153 restaurants in Kyoto. With its exceptional quality of sushi and warm hospitality, it offers a memorable dining experience to every guest.
The culinary team at Sushi Shigetomi takes pride in their meticulous preparation of sushi, ensuring each piece is crafted to perfection. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as a "brilliant experience" by Eclectic Kim, highlighting the unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements that make dining at Sushi Shigetomi a delight. Whether you're a sushi lover or a first-time visitor, Sushi Shigetomi promises a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more.
Address: 412-1 Shakincho Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan 604-0875
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Closed on Thursday)
Savoring the Last Sushi Bite in Kyoto
As we end our culinary expedition, it's undeniable that Kyoto is a haven for sushi aficionados. The city provides a sushi journey like no other, welcoming both beginners and seasoned sushi lovers. From the time-honored techniques at Sushi Matsumoto to the groundbreaking fusion at Izuju Sushi, each sushi spot serves up a unique blend of tradition and novelty.
So, when you're in Kyoto, allow your adventurous palate to lead the way and delve into the mesmerizing world of sushi artistry. Remember, in Kyoto, sushi isn't just eaten - it's celebrated. Each morsel is not just a dish, but a testament to Kyoto's rich culinary heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kyoto have good sushi?
Yes, Kyoto is renowned for its excellent sushi. With a range of sushi restaurants offering different styles and price ranges, the city caters to every sushi lover's taste. From the Michelin-starred Sushi Matsumoto to affordable yet delicious options like Sushisei and Azuma Sushi, Kyoto's sushi scene is impressive.
Which part of Japan has the best sushi?
While sushi is enjoyed throughout Japan, Tokyo is often considered the sushi capital due to its plethora of high-quality sushi restaurants, including many Michelin-starred establishments. However, other regions like Osaka and Kyoto also offer fantastic sushi experiences, each with their unique regional influences.
What is the most popular food in Kyoto?
Kyoto is famous for Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. It's also known for Yudofu (tofu hot pot), Matcha (green tea) flavored sweets, and Saba-zushi (mackerel sushi). These dishes reflect Kyoto's culinary history and the local bounty.
What is the Favourite sushi in Japan?
Japan's favorite sushi varies by region and personal preference. However, some commonly loved types include Maguro (tuna), Salmon, Ebi (shrimp), and Tamago (sweet egg omelet). Nigiri-style sushi, where a slice of raw fish is pressed onto a mound of vinegared rice, is particularly popular.
What is Kyoto's signature food?
Kyoto's signature food is Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal that showcases seasonal and local ingredients in beautifully presented dishes. Other notable specialties include Matcha-flavored sweets, reflecting Kyoto's long history of tea cultivation, and Yuba (tofu skin), which has been a staple in the local diet for centuries.
