“Is expensive sushi worth it, or should I just go to a conveyor belt place?”

Both are worth trying! They’re completely different experiences, and Japan does both incredibly well.

High-End Sushi (Omakase)

“What makes expensive sushi special?”

The omakase experience (¥10,000-30,000+):

• Chef selects the best fish of the day
• Premium ingredients: otoro (fatty tuna), uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe)
• Each piece is made right in front of you
• Rice is seasoned perfectly for each topping
• Usually 10-15 courses
• Intimate counter seating

It’s not just food - it’s an art form.

Budget Sushi (Kaiten-zushi)

“What about conveyor belt sushi?”

Kaiten-zushi chains (¥100-300 per plate):

• Sushiro - Most popular chain, great quality
• Kura Sushi - Fun gachapon game after every 5 plates
• Hamazushi - Good variety
• Genki Sushi - Delivered by express lane

The quality is shockingly good for the price. Japanese budget sushi beats most expensive sushi restaurants abroad.

My Honest Recommendation

“So which should I do?”

Do both!

• Start with conveyor belt sushi early in your trip
• Save the omakase for a special night
• You’ll appreciate the difference more this way

If you can only do one: Conveyor belt sushi gives you more variety and is uniquely fun.

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals:

• Eat at kaiten-zushi regularly (it’s normal family dining)
• Save omakase for special occasions
• Know that expensive doesn’t always mean better
• Have their favorite neighborhood sushi shop

Extra Travel Tips

1. Lunch omakase is cheaper - Same quality, lower price than dinner

2. Sushiro has an app - Reserve your spot to avoid long waits

3. Don’t drown sushi in soy sauce - Especially at omakase, the chef seasons it

4. Eat what the chef recommends - The best fish changes daily

5. Budget sushi is not “bad” sushi - It’s just a different experience

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