Kyoto might not be the first city that comes to mind for sushi. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get decent sushi here!
Nigiri sushi in Kyoto: makesushi1 / Shutterstock.com
We’ve listed a few of our sushi standbys in this city below. They’re all affordable, good, and more importantly, approachable for non-Japanese patrons. Yes, you might find better sushi at a few of Kyoto’s elite restaurants, but it would be hard to enter such places without a Japanese friend. The places listed here are all places you can actually visit and enjoy.
- Sushisei (Downtown Kyoto; mid-range)
Sushisei is one of the best moderately priced sushi restaurants in Kyoto. They’re relatively comfortable with foreigners and its right downtown. - Azuma Sushi (Southern Higashiyama; mid-range)
Eating sushi at a local neighbourhood joint doesn’t get better than this. For unpretentious, delicious sushi that won’t break the bank, head over to Azuma Sushi in Higashiyama. - Den Shichi (Central Kyoto; mid-range)
One of the best and most approachable sushi bars in Kyoto, Den Shichi serves mouth-watering sushi in a classic sushi-bar atmosphere.
Best Kyoto Restaurant Recommendations
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- Best Gyoza in Kyoto
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- Best Japanese Tea and Sweet Shops in Kyoto
- Best Kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine) in Kyoto
- Best Kissaten in Kyoto
- Best Okonomiyaki in Kyoto
- Best Ramen in Kyoto
- Best Resutoran-gai in Kyoto
- Best Shojin Ryori (Japanese Buddhist vegetarian cuisine)
- Best Shokudo (All Round Restaurants) in Kyoto
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- Best Tempura in Kyoto
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Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass – here's my explanation of why it's worth it
- A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
