Why Conveyor Belt Sushi Is a Must-Try in Japan 🇯🇵
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, trying conveyor belt sushi—known locally as kaiten sushi (回転寿司)—is a must. This unique and affordable dining style allows you to pick your favorite sushi directly from a moving belt that circles the restaurant. It’s fast, fun, and perfect for travelers who want to experience Japanese food culture like a local without breaking the bank.
👉 Want to discover the top sushi places? Check out our Best Conveyor Belt Sushi Spots in Tokyo guide!
🍣 What Is Conveyor Belt Sushi (Kaiten Sushi)?
Conveyor belt sushi restaurants feature a rotating belt that carries various sushi plates past diners. You simply grab what you like as it passes by! Prices are typically based on plate color or design, with affordable options starting around ¥100 per plate.
Many modern locations also let you order from a touchscreen, with your custom sushi arriving via a second express lane—like sushi delivered by train!
📍 Step-by-Step: How to Eat at Kaiten Sushi Like a Local
1. Get Seated and Settle In
- A staff member will guide you to a seat or counter.
- Some spots are self-service and assign you a seat via a ticket machine.
- Look for the touchscreen menu, chopsticks, soy sauce, wasabi, and tea powder at your table.
2. Take Plates from the Belt… but Use Caution
- Grab any plate you like from the rotating belt.
- Don’t touch plates and put them back.
- Higher-end dishes or freshly made orders often arrive on a separate tier with your seat number displayed.
3. Know the Plate Colors
- Each plate color or pattern represents a price tier.
- Example:
- White = ¥110
- Red = ¥220
- Gold = ¥330
Some chains show pricing on the menu or touchscreen.
4. Make Custom Orders
- Most kaiten sushi shops allow touchscreen ordering in English.
- Your order will arrive directly at your seat via a “sushi train.”
- Try ordering items not on the belt like salmon roe (ikura), grilled eel (unagi), or even desserts!
5. Make Your Own Tea
- Use the green tea powder and hot water dispenser at your seat.
- A few shakes of powder and hot water = perfect Japanese matcha tea.
6. Tidy Up Like a Local
- Stack your empty plates.
- Use the provided ginger (gari) and wasabi freely—but don’t overload.
- Locals don’t drown sushi in soy sauce. A light dip is enough.
7. Check Out with Ease
- A staff member will count your plates or scan a barcode at your table.
- You’ll pay at the register or via self-checkout machine—cash or IC card (Suica, Pasmo) are usually accepted.
🗾 Top Chains to Try Conveyor Belt Sushi in Japan
| Chain | Why Locals Love It |
|---|---|
| Sushiro (スシロー) | Wide selection, affordable, great for families |
| Kura Sushi (くら寿司) | Gacha capsule prizes after 5 plates! |
| Hama Sushi (はま寿司) | English menu, budget-friendly |
| Genki Sushi (元気寿司) | Known for speed and tech |
💡 Local Tips for a Great Kaiten Sushi Experience
- 🍵 Don’t tip in Japan—service is included.
- 🧻 Wet towels (oshibori) are provided—use them before eating.
- 🍤 Try seasonal items for unique flavors.
- 📱 Download the chain’s app in advance to avoid long waits.
✈️ Final Thoughts: Enjoy Sushi Like a Local
Conveyor belt sushi offers one of the most fun and affordable ways to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, you’ll find kaiten sushi spots everywhere. Follow these tips to eat confidently and respectfully—just like a local!
👉 Looking for the best spots in Tokyo? Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo.
