How Much Does Sushi Cost in Japan? Cheap Or Expensive!

Bring the chopstick, take a piece of sushi and stuff it in your mouth. The explosion of different flavors will make you bound to say, “yummm.”

Yes, there is no way anyone can resist sushi. And if you have ever tried Japanese sushi, you will never be able to forget the taste.

Here in Japan, sushi is the most popular dish, and it’s a matter of pride that even foreigners admire it a lot.

Now, In case you are planning a trip to our country, you should definitely try this tempting dish.

However, do you even know: how much does sushi cost in Japan?

If not, then keep reading as I will provide a detailed answer to this question today.

Price of Sushi in Japan: From Cheaper to Expensive

In Japan, you have several places to choose from to enjoy sushi. Either you can go to a traditional sushi bar or a casual conveyor belt restaurant.

The average price of a sushi meal is around 2,000 yen to 10,000 yen per person, depending on the restaurant and when you eat.

For instance, lunch at a sushi restaurant will cost around 2,000 yen to 3,000 yen for a dish consisting of various sashimi and rolled sushi.

In case you dine in the evening, the price of sushi sets will be approximately 5,000 to 10,000 yen.

The most affordable option is conveyor-belt sushi (or kaiten zushi), which will cost about 1,000 yen to 2,500 yen per person.

Well, all of the mentioned prices are based on an average perspective, and they may differ from place to place.

To give you more specific information, now I will mention where you will find cheap, midrange, or expensive sushi in Japan.

Why is sushi cheaper in Japan?

Sushi is cheaper in Japan than in other countries because the availability of the ingredients in Japan.

The price of the various ingredients for sushi is affordable. As a result, sushi meals can be extremely affordable in Japan.

Because sushi is so popular in Japan, it's easy to find a restaurant, or convenience store that sells it, which can make price competition difficult.

Sushi costs vary depending on where you eat in Japan. Sushi might be inexpensive or it can be really expensive!

Where To Find Cheap Sushi in Japan?

Many of my foreign friends asked me: is sushi cheaper in Japan?

Well, it’s a common question as they have to pay a lot in their respective country.

Hence if you have the same concern, here is a good news for you.

Yes, you can enjoy the taste of flavorful sushi in your mouth without stressing your pocket in Japan.

You may drop by the below places to make both your tummy and wallet happy at once.

What is the cheapest sushi in Japan?

You can get sushi for only ten yen in Japan! That is roughly $0.08. The restaurant, which locals refer to as the "Sushi Bar With No Name" and is well-known for its 10 Yen Sushi, is situated along a street in Tokyo.

The ingredients for 10 Yen Sushi might change every day depending on what is most affordable that day on the market.

Japanese yellowtail is one of the most frequently utilised meats for the least expensive sushi. The shop also sells squid that costs less than 2,000 yen, as well as Inari sushi, omelettes, and refreshing drinks.

The sushi restaurant doesn't need any advertisement, according to customers. Word of mouth alone is enough to establish the sushi joint as a local favourite!

Sushi Takeout Shops

You will find takeout shops lined up outside at many stations in Japan. And this type of arrangement is introduced for those heading home from work and tired to cook.

A sushi takeout shop is often included in this type of busy place, like the chain shop Chiyoda Sushi. Oftentimes, they offer discounts around closing time.

Another option is the 500 yen kaisendon sushi bowl shops, such as Donmaru.

Approximate Price of Sushi in Takeout Shops: 240 to 490 yen ($2 to $4).

Few Shops Name: Chiyoda Sushi, Donmaru.

Official Site of Chiyoda Sushi: chiyoda-sushi.co.jp

Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants

Although conveyor belt sushi restaurants are not always cheap, you can definitely find some sushi items at lower prices.

You probably need to pay around 100 to 200 yen per plate in some conveyor belt restaurants like Ganso Zushi, Hamazushi, Kaitenzushi Katsumidori, Sushiro, Uobei Sushi, Senryo, Daikokusan, Sushi Daidokoya, and more.

These places have both kinds of serving systems: one where you take the plate of sushi you want to eat from the revolving counter and another where you order on an iPad placed on the table.

Cheapest Cost Per Plate: Approximately 100 to 200 yen ($0.85 to $1.70).

Official Site of Hamazushi: en.hama-sushi.co.jp

Official Site of Gansozushi: gansozushi.com

Sushi at Convenience Stores Or Supermarkets

The price of sushi varies in every convenience store and supermarket. But, the supermarket’s one tends to be a little cheaper.

A set with 6 to 8 pieces usually costs between 500 to 800 yen. You can also buy single rolls for about 100 to 120 yen each, depending on the ingredient and size.

Normally, the price becomes a bit cheaper near the closing time at supermarkets, but there is no guarantee that any will be left!

But, who knows!! Maybe you will get lucky. Hence, when you are done with roaming around, try to visit a shop late at night and try out your luck.

Approximate Sushi Sets Price in Supermarket
8-Piece Sets: 500 to 700 yen ($4.23 to $6).
Single Sushi Rolls: Around 120 yen ($1).
Large Sliced Sushi Rolls: Around 430 yen ($3.63).

Many sushi restaurants fall into the mid-grade range in terms of price. Still, it’s wise to visit one that has a good reputation cause you never know when you will come to Japan again.

Since I don’t want you to regret any decision, you may visit the below places to treat yourself with sushi at a budget price.

Sushi Katsura

Sushi Katsura serves one of the best sushi rolls that cost slightly higher than some of the conveyor belt chains.

The lunch items are kinda affordable. For example, their 9-set sushi costs 1,300 yen with an additional maki roll.

However, for dinner items, they even have a sushi course costing 10,000 yen.

Check Out The Information about This Restaurant
Lunch Item Cost: 1,300 to 5,800 yen ($11 to $49).
Dinner Item Cost: 2,500 to 10,000 yen ($21 to $84.50).
Business Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM.
Regular Holiday: Sunday.
Official Site: sushi-katsura.jp
Address: 2-15-4 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045.

Fish Markets in Japan

Fish markets are some of the best places where you will find fresh sushi at a reasonable price. No matter which city you will be in, you are definitely gonna find a fish market where you can relish some freshly made sushi.

Some of the renowned fish markets all over Japan are Toyosu Market in Tokyo, Hakodate Morning Market in Hokkaido, Kuromon Market in Osaka, and so on.

Besides serving sushi, these places also arrange auctions for fish which is sort of expensive.

Where To Find Expensive Sushi in Japan

“Sushi” & “Expensive,” these two words always sit together, and it’s not a new thing to know.

However, do you ever wonder: why is sushi so expensive?

Well, the reason behind this is that it takes a lot of intensive labor to make sushi. Also, fresh and yummy sushi requires high-quality ingredients.

And fish which is good enough to be considered sushi-grade is quite expensive. For instance, the best quality fish like tuna can cost hundreds per pound.

On the other hand, each sushi roll must be made by hand and arranged artfully on the plate. A platter should offer a visual treat and taste good as well; hence a lot of the work goes into the dish's appearance.

Therefore, if you want to experience the best sushi in Japan, you have to spend thousands of yen just like the former US President Barack Obama did.

Now, I will present you a list of restaurants that will help you to find the best sushi deals in Japan.

Sukiyabashi Jiro

Yes, this is the restaurant where Barack Obama dropped by to taste Japan’s traditional food sushi.

This world-class restaurant in the Ginza district can lighten your pocket but elevate your experience. It is by far the most expensive sushi restaurant in Japan that will cost you 55,000 yen.

Although it’s pricey, the set will leave you wondering why you have never eaten sushi like this before.

By the way, as it’s a popular restaurant, don’t forget to reserve in advance.

Check Out The Information about This Restaurant
Random Course: Starts from 55,000 yen ($465).
Business Hours: 11:30 AM to 2:00 AM, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Reservation Phone Number: 03-3535-3600.
Holidays: Sundays, Saturday nights, public holidays, mid-August, year-end, and New Year holidays.
Address: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 4 Chome−2−15.
Official Site: sushi-jiro.jp

Sushi Matsumoto

It is a recognized Michelin star restaurant in Kyoto, loved by both locals and tourists.

While lunch here will cost you over 10,000 yen, dinner will go up to around 20,000 yen.

The moment you taste their sushi, you are going to be stunned by how excellent a food can be. And maybe you will end up saying, “Nice to meet you, my dear sushi!”

Now check the restaurant’s information, so that you can meet your dear in person!

Details of This Restaurant
Lunch Item Cost: 11,000 to 17,600 yen ($93 to $149).
Dinner Item Cost: 17,600 to 20,900 ($149 to $177).
Business Hours: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Closed During: Tuesday (fully closed), and on Wednesday, they only serve dinner.
Address: 570-123 Giommachi-minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan.
Telephone: +81-75-531-2031.

Sushi Fukuju

Another high-end Japanese sushi restaurant in Ginza is Sushi Fukuju. They offer mouth-watering omakase meals that are really hard to resist.

When I was there last time, I swept off several plates in a blink. Yes, it was that delicious to make me crave for more and more.

Unfortunately, my pocket was crying not to abuse it anymore!!

Hence I call it a day but trust me; it was worth every penny.

So, I will say, if you come to Kyoto, then you shouldn't miss the chance to taste their delicious sushi platter.

Check Out The Information about This Restaurant
Price of Course: 1800 to 20,000 yen ($15.22 to $169).
Business Hours (Monday – Friday): 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Business Hours (Saturday & Sunday): 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Address: Tokyo, Chuo-ku, Ginza 5-8-17 8F.
Telephone: 03-6263-8495.
Official Site: sushi_fukuju.imachika.com/en/

One notable thing is that location matters a lot regarding Japanese food costs. For example, as Tokyo is one of the appealing cities for travelers, the price of the different meals is a bit higher here.

Now, if you are going to be in Tokyo, I think it’s better to know about the cost of sushi in this megacity in detail. And, that’s what I will talk about from here.

What is the most expensive sushi in Japan?

The most costly sushi is "Omakase" sushi from Japan. When you have omakase service, the chef chooses the type of sushi that will be served to you.

You probably believe that Omasake has been around for hundreds of years. But in reality, the popularity of the culinary approach did not begin until the 1990s.

The popular Japanese eating style of omakase features exquisite, artistic, and seasonally appropriate food presentation.

Omakase is pricey not just because the chef is a master at making decisions, but also because the dishes and ingredients are of unrivaled quality. It's not your typical sushi, though.

Go to high-end sushi bars if you want to try Omakase sushi. This type of premium sushi can cost anywhere between 5,000 and 100,000 yen. It ranges from $45 to $900.

What is The Price Of Sushi in Tokyo?

Sushi in Tokyo can either be remarkably cheap or incredibly expensive. Although the sushi price is really high in most places, the cheap ones are also delicious.

And overall, most people end up spending approximately 2,000 yen per sushi meal in Tokyo.

But, of course, the price will vary from restaurant to restaurant.

As everything in Japan is relatively expensive, your travel cost will increase if you keep trying on everything costly.

That’s why for all of my friends who are budget travelers, I am gonna mention some places in Tokyo where you can enjoy sushi at a low price.

Where To Find Cheap Sushi in Tokyo?

While thinking about sushi on a budget, the first restaurant that comes to my mind is Genki Sushi in Tokyo.

So, let’s know about their price and other details now.

Genki Sushi

Genki Sushi is located nearby Shibuya Station. They have multiple branches opened all across Japan. It is one of my favorite sushi trains in Tokyo because they serve cheap sushi without degrading the quality.

Not only the Japanese but also visitors admire the shop’s numerous menu choices and its entertaining and unique train delivery system.

As it’s extremely popular, you should expect a small wait, especially during weekends and dinner time.

Oh, no! Don’t even think you have to wait for decades to meet your love of life, just like what we see in some typical romantic movies!

We, Japanese people, strictly value each second of our life. So, I want to say that they serve really quickly, and you hardly have to wait too long.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/tvFbdV4efLE

Yet, if you don’t want to wait, then you may visit during off-peak hours. In that way, you will be able to walk right in and get a seat to eat your sushi.

Since they serve a wide variety of sushi, after going there your situation may turn into “what to order and what not.”

Now, check out their sushi prices and essential information from below.

Price & Other Details
Cost Per Serving Sushi: Approx. 130 yen to 710 yen ($1.10 to $6).
Business Hours: Monday – Sunday (11:00 AM to 12:00 AM).
Address: 24-8 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan.
Official Site: genkisushi.co.jp

Uobei Sushi

The cheapest plate of sushi in this restaurant is only 108 yen. They serve really fast, and you have to order using the tablet.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/fGuHojSgrhw

As the price is rather low, you can chill and eat as much as you want. Even the quality is up to the standard, and you are gonna leave with a satisfied tummy.

Price & Other Details
Cheapest Plate: 108 yen ($1).
Business Hours: 10:40 AM to 9:00 PM.
Address: 2 Chome-29-11 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan.

Sushiro Sushi

Established over 30 years ago, Sushiro is now one of Japan's top sales Kaiten Sushi chains.

So, you can guess how fantastic your experience there will be.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/ngpMutZcrMk

As they have around 58 stores in Tokyo, you will easily find one nearby from where you stay.

Price & Other Details
Cheapest Plate: 110 yen ($1).
Business Hours on Weekdays: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Business Hours on Weekends & Holidays: 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
Address: Check this link.
Official Site: akindo-sushiro.co.jp/en/

Besides Tokyo, you can enjoy affordable sushi courses in other cities in Japan like Nara, Kyoto, etc.

And the restaurants listed above are also chain shops, so they have several branches all over Japan. Hence, make sure to check out if a branch is available in the city you are staying.

Alright, there is nothing left to inform you regarding today’s topic.

Hence, it’s time to say goodbye.

Conclusion

By now, I hope you got a detailed answer to the question: how much does sushi cost in Japan?

As a big fat sushi lover, I always find it satisfying to share information regarding this yummy food.

And I want to say, if you visit our beloved country, don’t miss treating yourself with sushi at any cost.

Lastly, have a wonderful day.