From Tokyo to Hokkaido! A Gourmet Sushi Guide to Enjoy Across Japan
October 04, 2024
When you travel to Japan, trying authentic sushi is a must-have experience, right? However, each region of Japan has its own unique sushi culture, with different characteristics and ways to enjoy it. This time, we will introduce distinctive sushi restaurants in popular tourist destinations such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hokkaido, and Hyogo. Find a sushi restaurant that suits your travel plans and be sure to visit!
Tokyo / 東京
Osaka / 大阪
Kyoto / 京都
Hokkaido / 北海道
Fukuoka / 福岡
Hyogo / 兵庫
1. Tokyo / 東京
Indulge in Luxury at the Home of Edomae Sushi Tokyo is the birthplace of "Edomae Sushi," making it the ultimate destination for authentic sushi. Thanks to the influence of Tsukiji and Toyosu markets, you can enjoy the freshest seafood here.
Pressed Sushi and Anago, Local Delicacies from the Kansai Region In Osaka, unlike Tokyo's "nigirizushi," "oshizushi" (pressed sushi) has developed as a regional specialty. The city also offers a variety of Kansai-specific toppings like anago (conger eel) and mackerel.
Elegant Flavors Unique to the Ancient Capital Kyoto is a city of history and tradition, which is reflected in its unique sushi, such as "sabazushi" (mackerel sushi) and "battera" (pressed mackerel sushi wrapped in kelp).
Exquisite Seafood from the Bounty of the Ocean Hokkaido is blessed with an abundance of seafood, and the freshness of its ingredients is among the best in Japan. Delicacies such as uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), and scallops are particularly recommended.
Fukuoka Prefecture is renowned as a sushi destination with an abundance of fresh seafood. Situated along the waters of the Genkai Sea and the Ariake Sea, this region offers seasonal sushi toppings that change throughout the year. From Hakata’s specialty "Gomasaba" (marinated mackerel) to the squid from Yobuko, Fukuoka’s unique flavors are loved not only by locals but also by tourists.
Fresh Seafood from Awaji Island and Gourmet Sushi in Kobe In Hyogo Prefecture, the fresh seafood caught around Awaji Island, which faces the Seto Inland Sea, is particularly famous. Additionally, the refined sushi restaurants in Kobe are highly popular.
When visiting Japan, be sure to enjoy the unique sushi experiences that each region has to offer! From the Edomae sushi of Tokyo, the pressed sushi of Osaka, and the mackerel sushi of Kyoto, to the fresh seafood of Hokkaido, and the Seto Inland Sea delicacies in Hyogo, every destination provides a different taste of Japan’s rich and diverse culinary heritage through sushi.
On your next trip, use this guide to discover and indulge in the finest sushi Japan has to offer!
