11 English-Friendly Conveyor Belt Sushi Chains in Tokyo

What is Conveyor Belt Sushi?

Conveyor belt sushi, or kaiten-zushi, is a uniquely Japanese dining style where plates of sushi travel on a rotating belt, allowing customers to pick and choose what they like as it passes by. This self-service system was invented in 1958 and has since spread throughout Japan. It offers a convenient way to enjoy sushi, making it a popular choice for families, businesspeople, and tourists alike.

One of the biggest attractions of conveyor belt sushi is its affordability. Many restaurants offer plates starting from just 100 yen, making it easy to enjoy a variety of sushi without spending a lot. This casual, accessible style of dining has made kaiten-zushi a beloved part of everyday life in Japan.

How to Enjoy Conveyor Belt Sushi

Tokyo offers a wide range of sushi restaurants, from affordable conveyor belt sushi to high-end establishments. Conveyor belt sushi, in particular, is known for being reasonably priced compared to traditional sushi restaurants, while still providing delicious sushi made with fresh ingredients and expert craftsmanship. This style of dining is also very popular among international visitors, as it offers an easy and enjoyable way to experience Japanese food culture. If you're planning a trip to Tokyo, visiting a conveyor belt sushi restaurant is highly recommended.

Guidelines for the Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants Introduced Here

In this article, we focus on establishments operated by major chain restaurants and well-known sushi shops that offer reliable quality and service. Additionally, we place importance on whether these restaurants are equipped with English-friendly features, such as touch panels and menus, to ensure a smooth experience for foreign tourists. Finally, we have limited our selection to restaurants where you can enjoy authentic sushi at a reasonable price, typically ranging from $10 to $40, rather than high-end sushi establishments that may cost over $150.

11 Recommended Conveyor Belt Sushi Spots in Tokyo

Low Price Range - 2000 yen

1. Kura Zushi (くら寿司)

Kura Sushi is a major conveyor belt sushi chain with approximately 550 locations across Japan. They have a wide presence, from near train stations in urban areas to roadside locations in the suburbs, and are popular with families and young people. They have introduced the latest auto lane system, achieving smooth delivery with touch panel ordering. In addition to sushi, they also have a variety of Japanese dishes such as tempura and dango (sweet dumplings), and their limited-time premium toppings and unique collaboration menus are also a hot topic. They have touch panels that support English and also provide multilingual menus. It gets particularly crowded on weekends, and many stores use a numbered ticket system, so we recommend making a reservation in advance using their app.

■Restaurant Information

1. Approximately 550 locations nationwide
2. Located from in front of stations to along suburban roads
3. Busy on weekends
4. Ticketing system / reservation via app available

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2. Sushiro (スシロー)

Sushiro is one of the top conveyor belt sushi chains in Japan, with approximately 646 locations nationwide. The chain has many stores in major cities, especially near train stations and along roadways, making it highly convenient. Sushiro offers high-quality sushi at reasonable prices, with fresh tuna and seasonal ingredients being particularly popular. The stores are equipped with touch panels in English, Chinese, and Korean, catering to many international tourists. The restaurant uses the "Auto Waiter" system, where sushi is delivered directly to your seat on a dedicated lane, ensuring quick service. Weekends can get busy, so it's convenient to pre-register through the official app.

■Restaurant Information

1. Approximately 650 locations nationwide
2. From station fronts to roadside areas in suburban locations
3. Busy on weekends
4. Ticketing system / reservation via app available

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3. Hama Zushi (はま寿司)

Hama Sushi is a popular conveyor belt sushi chain with approximately 609 locations across Japan, known for its excellent cost effectiveness. The chain operates not only in urban areas but also features large roadside stores, many of which offer parking, making it convenient for customers driving. Orders are placed via touch panels, with language options available in English, Chinese, Korean, and Portuguese. Some stores also feature serving robots, offering a unique dining experience with the latest technology. Additionally, customers can choose the size of their sushi rice, making it a great option for health-conscious diners. Weekends tend to be busy, so many locations implement a ticketing system. It is recommended to wait in line using the app.

■Restaurant Information

1. Approximately 600 locations nationwide
2. From station fronts to roadside areas in suburban locations
3. Busy on weekends
4. Ticketing system / reservation via app available

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4. Uobei (魚べい)

Uobei is a conveyor belt sushi chain with around 174 locations nationwide, but with a unique twist: it does not have a traditional conveyor belt. Instead, it uses a touch panel ordering system combined with a high-speed delivery lane, ensuring that sushi is always fresh. Located in convenient areas such as near train stations and in bustling shopping districts, Uobei offers easy access. They have introduced an English-supported ordering system, creating an environment that is easy for international tourists to use. Despite its affordable prices, Uobei offers high-quality ingredients like tuna and Hokkaido ikura. Weekends can be busy, and many locations implement a ticketing system for waiting.

■Restaurant Information

1. Approximately 170 locations nationwide
2. Many locations near train stations
3. Busy on weekends
4. Many locations use a ticketing system

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5. Heiroku Sushi (平禄寿司)

Heiroku Sushi is a long-established conveyor belt sushi chain originating from the Tohoku region, with over 40 locations nationwide. The restaurant is known for using fresh seafood delivered directly from Ishinomaki and offering sushi that incorporates local Tohoku flavors. Most of its locations are in urban areas, particularly near train stations, with additional outlets in shopping malls and busy districts. Heiroku Sushi has English-supported touch panels and also offers multilingual menus. The interior mostly consists of box seating, making it ideal for families and groups. As weekends tend to be busy, it is recommended to check the ticketing system status in advance.

■Restaurant Information

1. Approximately 40 locations nationwide
2. Many locations near train stations
3. Busy on weekends
4. Many locations have a ticketing system

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6. Kaiten Zushi Misaki (回転寿司 みさき)

Kaiten Sushi Misaki, with approximately 75 locations nationwide, is often found in shopping malls and near train stations. The restaurant is known for its distinctive red vinegar rice and carefully selected fresh ingredients, allowing customers to casually enjoy authentic Edomae-sushi. With English-language touch panels and multilingual menus, it is easy for international visitors to use. The menu features items that highlight the quality of the ingredients, such as the "Hon Maguro Four-Piece Set" and "Three Types of Shellfish Platter." Many locations offer both table and counter seating, making it convenient for families and solo diners. As weekends tend to be busy, it is recommended to check the ticketing system in advance.

■Restaurant Information

1. Approximately 70 locations nationwide
2. Located near train stations and shopping malls
3. Busy on weekends
4. Many locations have a ticketing system

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Mid-range price range: 2000 yen - 4000 yen

7. Kaiten Toyama Zushi (廻転とやま鮨)

Kaiten Toyama Sushi is a conveyor belt sushi chain that operates primarily in Toyama Prefecture, with locations in major cities such as Tokyo. The Ginza branch, located on the Ginza Corridor Street, is particularly popular for offering fresh seafood directly sourced from Toyama Bay and for showcasing the charm of Toyama. The restaurant provides menus in English and Chinese, making it easy for foreign visitors to enjoy their meal. Signature dishes such as white shrimp sushi and red snow crab gunkan are unique to this location. The interior of the restaurant exudes a refined Japanese atmosphere, with both counter and table seating available. It tends to get crowded on weekends, and some locations may have a ticket system for waiting.

■Restaurant Information

1. Can be crowded on weekends
2. Some locations have a ticket system for waiting

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8. Kanazawa Maimon Sushi (金沢まいもん寿司)

Kanazawa Maimon Sushi is a conveyor belt sushi chain that originated in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, and has around 20 locations nationwide. The restaurant is found in shopping malls and near train stations, offering fresh seafood from the Hokuriku region and high-quality sushi. It is especially known for offering luxurious ingredients unique to the region, such as nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) and white shrimp. The restaurant features touch panel ordering in English, with multilingual menus available. The interior has a calm, traditional Japanese atmosphere, with both table and counter seating to accommodate a wide range of customers. Some locations may offer a ticket system during busy times.

■Restaurant Information

1. Around 20 locations nationwide
2. Located near train stations and shopping malls
3. Can be crowded on weekends
4. Some locations have a ticket system for waiting

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9. Sushi Choshimaru (すし 銚子丸)

Sushi Choushimaru operates around 82 locations primarily in the Greater Tokyo area, offering Edomae-sushi made with fresh seafood directly delivered from Choshi Port. The restaurant is known for its sushi rice, which is a blend of carefully selected rice and red vinegar. Popular menu items include the three-piece tuna sashimi set and seasonal fish. The specially dashimaki tamago (grilled rolled omelette) by skilled chefs is also highly praised. With touch panel ordering available in English and foreign language menus, Sushi Choushimaru is welcoming to international guests. The restaurant features spacious table and counter seating, allowing for a comfortable dining experience. Due to high demand on weekends, it is recommended to make reservations in advance using the app.

■Restaurant Information

1. Approximately 80 locations nationwide
2. Can be crowded on weekends
3. Reservations via app recommended

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10. Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera Musuko (廻転鮨 銀座おのでら)

The interior of the restaurant features a stylish and modern space with a Japanese ambiance, allowing guests to experience the live action of skilled chefs preparing dishes right before their eyes. The restaurant serves freshly made sushi using carefully selected ingredients such as premium tuna sourced from "Yamayuki," a wholesaler at Toyosu Market. In addition, the Shibuya location offers a selection of original dishes, perfect to enjoy alongside a wide variety of alcoholic beverages. With an English menu available, international visitors can feel at ease when dining here. The restaurant is open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or even as a second stop if you're looking for more drinks.

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11. Edowan Chokusou Kaiten Tokyo Sushi Kaido by ITAMAE SUSHI (江戸湾直送 回転 東京すし街道by ITAMAE SUSHI)

Located in Minato ward, Tokyo, Edowan Chokuso Sushi Train Tokyo Sushi Kaido-Road Aqua City Odaiba is a high-end conveyor belt sushi restaurant that blends the tradition of Edomae-sushi with modern technology. Situated in a prime location with a stunning view of Odaiba, it is a popular spot among tourists. The signature dish, the 5 Specially Selected nigiri from Edo Bay, offers a luxurious selection of seasonal fish handpicked by the chefs, allowing you to enjoy a variety of fresh flavors in one plate. Other recommendations include the tuna medium fatty tuna tekkamaki (tuna roll) and the delicate white fish wrapped in kelp to highlight its natural taste. The freshness of the fish, along with the temperature of the rice and the meticulous craftsmanship of the sushi, ensures a true Edomae sushi experience. The restaurant provides an English menu, and foreign staff are on hand to assist, making it an ideal and comfortable choice for international visitors. Enjoy top-quality Edomae-sushi while taking in the beautiful views of Tokyo Bay.

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