Hello, sushi lovers! When visiting Kyoto, why not take the opportunity to enjoy some authentic sushi? And if you’re searching for places that offer more than just luxury but also great value, this article is just what you need. Here, we’ve picked five sushi spots in Kyoto where you can enjoy genuine flavors at reasonable prices. From traditional Edomae-style sushi to creative offerings, these restaurants offer diverse experiences that are perfect on your sightseeing break. Make sure to check them out!
Kyoto’s sushi culture is rich with seasonal ingredients and precise culinary techniques. Surprisingly, while Kyoto is a major tourist destination, it still has plenty of sushi spots where you can indulge without overspending. Each restaurant features carefully selected ingredients and creative dishes at accessible price points, making it easy to enjoy luxurious flavors at your leisure.
1. Sushi Sakaba Sushi to Fuji
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038511/)
Located about a 10-minute walk from Kyoto Station, “Sushi Sakaba Sushi to Fuji” is a popular choice for casual Edomae sushi dining. Here, fresh fish is sourced directly from producers to deliver great value! The restaurant is especially known for its aged tuna, and the menu also boasts over 25 varieties of sake, giving you a wide range of drink options. The warm, wood-accented interior features a striking Red Fuji mural by a famous artist, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Tourist-friendly, Sushitofuji is a convenient stop during your Kyoto sightseeing.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038511/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038511/)
(Source.4:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038511/)
2. Sushi Dokoro Susabi Yu
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26039042/)
“Sushi Dokoro Susabi Yu”, a renovated Kyoto townhouse near Shijo Station, blends Kyoto’s charm with the warmth of a traditional interior. In addition to fresh seafood sushi, you can also try creative offerings like wagyu beef sushi. The counter seating lets you enjoy watching the chefs at work, while private rooms with views of the garden create an ideal setting for special moments. Lunchtime includes a temari sushi course, featuring small, colorful sushi balls with seasonal ingredients — perfect for savoring Kyoto’s flavors in a charming atmosphere.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26039042/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26039042/)
(Source.4:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26039042/)
3. Sushi Tempura Gion Iwai
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26039518/)
“Sushi Tempura Gion Iwai”, a Kyoto branch of Michelin-starred “Ashiya Iwai”, offers both Edomae-style sushi and tempura. Just a 3-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station, it’s easily accessible and ideal for those who want to experience both sushi and tempura. The sushi rice, seasoned with red vinegar, enhances the umami, while seasonal tempura pairs perfectly with sake and wine. With a relaxed ambiance, it’s a great choice for special occasions. Located near Gion and Yasaka Shrine, this is a fantastic spot to enjoy a meal during your sightseeing.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26039518/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26039518/)
(Source.4:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26039518/)
4. Sushi & Sake Sakana Sugidama Kyoto Kawaramachi
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26035585/)
“Sushi & Sake Sakana Sugidama Kyoto Kawaramachi” is a sushi izakaya operated by the Sushiro chain. Offering fresh sushi and a wide selection of sake at reasonable prices, it’s the perfect spot for casual dining. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere, suitable for gatherings with friends or colleagues, and the menu includes creative sushi, sashimi platters, grilled dishes, and more. Located a 1-minute walk from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, this spot is an easy and convenient choice for a quick bite during your travels.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26035585/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26035585/)
(Source.4:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26035585/)
5. Kyoto Sushi Matsumoto
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038972/)
“Kyoto Sushi Matsumoto” is a Michelin-starred restaurant located just a 4-minute walk from Kyoto Station, where you can experience authentic Edomae-style sushi in a serene setting. The interior, filled with the scent of cypress, offers a sophisticated atmosphere, especially when seated at the whitewood counter. The omakase course includes unique side dishes like fried Nebuto fish and a tasting of different types of sea urchin, perfect for savoring a special moment. With its convenient location, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable meal between sightseeing or business appointments.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038972/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038972/)
(Source.4:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26038972/)
Conclusion
Kyoto has a surprising number of sushi restaurants that offer outstanding value. The five spots introduced here are easy to stop by during your sightseeing breaks, letting you enjoy authentic Edomae and creative sushi at great prices. Each restaurant has its own unique character and dedication to quality, delivering a dining experience that offers much more than you’d expect for the price. On your next trip to Kyoto, be sure to visit these excellent sushi spots and savor Kyoto’s delicious flavors!