It is no secret that Japan is one of the world’s culinary powerhouses. While there are so many foods to try, Okinawan sushi is a must! The best sushi restaurants in Okinawa are scattered all throughout the island and sushi is sold at a large number of places. In Okinawa, the sushi industry is not just about flavors but an experience.

Hama Sushi: A Must-Try Conveyor Belt Experience

Hama Sushi is a conveyor belt sushi restaurant with several sushi restaurants in Okinawa and is a must-try experience. When you first walk in, make sure to check in at the computer kiosk. You will then be assigned a table number, and a screen near the front will display the current number being seated. Once it is your turn, an employee will escort you to a table or bar next to a conveyor belt with a touch screen where you can order your food, which arrives moments later! Don’t worry about missing your order because you will be notified both right before and as your food arrives at your table. Once you are finished eating, simply close out the tab on the touch screen and find the kiosk up front to pay.

Kura Sushi: Affordable and Fun Dining

Another popular conveyor belt location, Kura Sushi, is the second-largest sushi restaurant chain in Japan. As you will quickly learn while living here, just because it’s at a gas station or a chain does not mean it’s not top quality. Kura Sushi has a few Okinawa locations from Nago to Toyosaki, and prices range from 100 to 200 yen per plate of sushi. The check-in and ordering process is virtually the same as at Hama. While both restaurants offer options like white rice, soups, and some sushi rolls, they mostly serve sashimi. Both Hama and Kura are very family-friendly but also offer individual seating if you are looking for a quiet meal out. Don’t forget to take a picture of all the plates you acquire!

Yoshihachi Sushi Bar: Traditional and Cozy

If you are looking for a relaxed environment, Yoshihachi Sushi Bar is the place for you. Yoshihachi is located in the Chatan area, close to Kadena Air Base. It has been run by Okinawa native Yoshi Maekawa and his son for over 20 years. They handcraft each roll and even sushi boats! That being said, it is best to arrive right at opening to avoid large crowds and inevitably longer wait times.

Yoshihachi offers diverse options such as shark and blowfish, and if you’re looking for some Habushu, this is your spot. While the menu does offer sashimi, it is well known for its vast options of sushi rolls.

The cozy restaurant is an experience in itself! Yoshi is a renowned chef who made his name among A-list celebrities while living in Los Angeles. Since moving back home to Okinawa, the restaurant is a product of all the love his food has brought to individuals like Arnold Palmer, Danny Glover, and many more. Be prepared to sit on traditional floor seating and admire all the well-deserved accolades. This is a perfect date night spot or a casual dinner to fill your stomach with some of the freshest sushi restaurants in Okinawa.

Explore Sushi Restaurants in Okinawa

The food scene in Okinawa can be hard to navigate, but restaurants like Hama and Yoshihachi prove the quality of Japanese cuisine. Don’t forget to explore the sushi experiences available to you!

• Hama Sushi
• Kura Sushi
• Yoshihachi Sushi Bar

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