5 All-Time Favorite Conveyor Belt Sushi Train Chain Restaurants in Japan

Not a big fan of high prices or sitting in front of the chef? Hit up one of these casual sushi shops instead!

Going to a formal sushi restaurant, sitting on a counter in front of the itamae (sushi master) while watching and waiting for each piece of sushi to be presented is surely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Indeed, the beautiful arrangements and careful attention to seasonal flavors and details are a delight for all of the senses and a very unique, only-in-Japan experience we should all have at least a few times. But on other occasions, when you simply want to have a quick bite and eat as much as you want without breaking the bank, there’s the other kind of sushi chains: the 回転寿司 (kaitenzushi; “conveyor belt sushi or ‘sushi train’ restaurants”). Here are some of Japan’s (and our) favorites!

1. Sushiro (スシロー)

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Opened in 1984, Sushiro is now Japan’s largest and highest-selling kaitenzushi chain with over 650 locations nationwide. It came from a traditional chef’s desire to let others enjoy sushi in a more casual setting. Sushiro is famous for its seasonal menu innovations and high-speed express lane deliveries. Their restaurants are always lively and despite being chain locations, somehow also manage to feel really cozy and inviting.

• Price per Plate Range: ¥120–¥360+
• Menu Languages: Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese and Korean

2. Kura Sushi (くら寿司)

© Photo by Pixta: つじ

Kura Sushi is one of the most family-friendly kaitenzushi chains in Japan, especially great if you’re dining with kids. Established in 1977, its restaurants are styled after traditional Japanese 倉 (kura; “storehouses”). Kids will love the gachapon (capsule toy) prize game—return five plates for a chance to win. Meanwhile, parents can feel good knowing that all dishes are free from artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners and preservatives. Kura Sushi is also known for its strong focus on food safety: each plate stays fresh under a patented dome until picked up. If it’s your first time, ask the staff how to open it—it can be tricky. They also have low and no-carb sushi/sashimi options, so if you’re dieting but don’t want to give up carbs completely, this is an excellent place for you.

• Price per Plate Range: ¥115–¥300+
• Menu Languages: Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese and Korean

3. Hamazushi (はま寿司)

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Though only founded in 2002, Hamazushi has quickly risen to popularity, boasting over 500 locations across the country and some of Japan’s most reasonable prices: starting from just ¥110 per plate. The best flavor pairing possible is something that Hamazushi strives for, which is why they have six different types of soy sauce available on each table. According to sushi connoisseurs, the right soy sauce can make various kinds of sushi taste even richer. You might want to experiment with the different types and see what combinations you can discover. Aside from a very long list of sushi on their menu, Hamazushi also takes pride in its exceptionally creative side dish menu, which includes everything from crispy French fries to ramen and chocolate cakes.

• Price per Plate Range: ¥110–¥319+
• Menu Languages: Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese and Korean

4. Kappa Sushi (かっぱ寿司)

© Photo by Kappa Sushi

Kappa Sushi, founded in 1973, is instantly recognizable thanks to its adorable kappa (turtle-like river imp) as its mascots, called Ka-kun and Pakko-chan. The chain focuses on collaborations with popular food brands, anime franchises and seasonal specials. Expect a mix of classic favorites and more adventurous items on the menu. Kappa Sushi is also one of the few kaitenzushi chains to regularly offer all-you-can-eat sushi plans by reservation—perfect for big appetites or casual group gatherings.

• Price per Plate Range: ¥110–¥330+ (All-you-can-eat: Adults: ¥3,890; Seniors (Over 65): ¥3,390; Elementary Students: ¥1,990)
• Menu Languages: Japanese (Some locations may offer limited English support or use pictorial menus.)

5. Genki Sushi Group

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Genki Sushi is the name of a group of kaitenzushi restaurants: Genki Sushi (元気寿司), Uobei (魚べい), and Senryo (千両). However, Senryo only has two locations (one in Ibaraki and one in Tochigi). Founded in 1968, the chain’s goal is to promote and share the joys of sushi with the world, which they’re accomplishing by also opening locations in the U.S., Hong Kong and China. Their prices are on par with the others in this list, and their premium selections are pretty creative.

• Price per Plate Range: ¥120–¥300+ (Genki Sushi), ¥120–¥250+ (Uobei), ¥150–¥400+ (Senryo)
• Menu Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese (simplified/traditional)

Other Popular But Smaller Chains To Try

• Sushi Choushimaru (すし銚子丸): A regional favorite in Tokyo and Chiba, Choushimaru is known for slightly higher prices (¥154–¥726 per plate). Unlike many conveyor belt chains, the sushi here is handmade on the spot by chefs behind the counter, giving it a more traditional feel without the formality of high-end omakase.
• Nigiri Chojiro (にぎり長次郎): Located mainly in the Kansai region, Chojiro offers a slightly more upscale kaitenzushi experience with a traditional ambiance and premium sushi options (¥140–¥580 per plate). Unlike fast-paced chains, the atmosphere here is quieter and more refined, making it a popular choice for date nights.
• Toriton (トリトン): Originating in Hokkaido, Toriton is widely beloved for its incredibly fresh seafood, much of which is sourced directly from local Hokkaido markets. The portions (¥143–¥583 per plate) are generous—expect thick cuts of salmon, scallop and crab—and the quality rivals that of many higher-end sushi restaurants.
• Kanazawa Maimon Sushi (金沢まいもん寿司):
  Founded in Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa Maimon Sushi brings the refined flavors of Japan’s Hokuriku region to the kaitenzushi scene. Known for premium toppings like nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), sweet shrimp, and uni (sea urchin), the chain emphasizes seasonality and traditional techniques. If you’re near a location, it’s well worth the extra yen (¥165–¥1540 per plate) for a taste of regional luxury.
• Sushizanmai (すしざんまい): Though technically not a conveyor belt chain, Sushizanmai is still a well-loved chain known for its tuna auctions and excellent value sushi (¥107–¥1095 per plate). With nearly 50 locations, it’s perfect for a slightly fancier but still casual sushi experience.

Tips For Visiting A Kaitenzushi Restaurant

© Photo by iStock: Hakase_

• When entering, you’ll need to choose a counter or booth seat. Booths are better for bigger groups and families, but counter seats are more available during busy periods, so we recommend those if you’re in a rush.
• The table usually contains chopsticks, napkins, soy sauce, wasabi, pickled ginger and green tea. You will need to make the green tea yourself with the cups and a hot water tap on your table. Self-serve cold water is also usually available somewhere in the store.
• You can order using the touch-panel screen at your table (usually changeable to English, Chinese or Korean) or just take what you like from the moving conveyor (if available). If it’s moving very fast, that’s probably someone else’s order, so don’t grab those ones!
• Special orders from the tablet often arrive on color-coded or express plates with a jingle or screen notification. Before grabbing the plate, make sure the color matches your table color.
• When you’re done, tap the 会計 (kaiki; “bill/check”) button on the screen. A staff member may come over to count your plates, or a machine will scan them so you can go straight to the payment counter.
• Prices are calculated based on the total number of plates eaten, with some plates of premium sushi, side dishes or desserts costing more.
• Don’t forget to try some of the non-sushi plates, like the classic sushi side dish—chawanmushi (savory egg custard)—along with the noodle options, fried food and seasonal desserts!

Have you tried any of these conveyor belt sushi train restaurants before? Japan’s kaitenzushi scene has never been more delicious, diverse or fun—enjoy them all!