Introduction to the different types of sushi in Japan!

When it comes to food in Japan, many tourists will answer “sushi“.

But did you know that there are actually many different types of sushi?

In this article, we’ll be discussing the different types of sushi!

Each piece of sushi is small, so you can compare different kinds.
Be sure to try the kinds that interest you.

Nigiri

The most popular type of sushi is “nigiri“.

Fresh “Neta” (*) is placed on top of sushi rice that is held to just the right consistency.

*Neta refers to the ingredients.

The ingredients on top are mostly fish, mostly raw fish.

If you like, you can put wasabi on top!

If you are not used to raw fish, you may find some types of fish a bit smelly.

Maki

Makisushi is a type of sushi in which the ingredients are wrapped in vinegared rice and then rolled in nori (seaweed).

It is generally served rolled into a single piece and cut into small pieces.

They are bite-sized and very easy to eat, making them very popular among children.

The long and thin ones are called “hosomaki” and the large ones with many ingredients are called “hutomaki“.

Temaki

It is a little similar to “Maki“, but this one is made with vinegared rice and ingredients gently wrapped in nori.

It’s often prepared as a home-style dish in Japan!

You can prepare nori (seaweed), sushi rice, and other ingredients, and each person can roll up whatever they like.

Gunkan

It is sushi made by rolling sushi rice with nori (seaweed) and placing ingredients on top of it. It was named “Gunkan“, which means “warship” in Japanese, because it looks like a warship.

It is often topped with ingredients that spill easily, such as salmon roe, sea urchin, and small fish.

The flavor of the nori and the rich texture of the ingredients go so well together!

Inarisuhi

Cute triangular shape. In fact, this is also a kind of sushi.

It is made by wrapping vinegared rice in sweet fried bean curd, which is sweet and sour, so children love it.

This sushi is made without raw fish, so it lasts a long time. I often make it for lunches!

It is also a valuable halal food for tourists.

Kakinohasushi

“Kakinoha Sushi” is a typical sushi from Nara Prefecture in Japan.

The sushi is wrapped in persimmon leaves, and the aroma is very refreshing.

Unlike other types of sushi, it is seasoned with salt, so no soy sauce is added.

★I wrote an article about Nara Prefecture here, please check it out!

Sabasushi

Sabasushi is a specialty that is commonly eaten in the western regions of Japan.

A rectangular piece of vinegared rice topped with salted mackerel, and in some areas, grilled mackerel.

It’s salty and goes well with sake!

Chirashi sushi

Last but not least, some gorgeous sushi!

Chirashi-sushi, which is made by placing many ingredients on a bed of vinegared rice, has been valued as a dish for celebratory occasions and parties because of its colorful appearance.

It is often made at home because it is so easy to make, just put the ingredients on top!

extra (special) edition　What are the pink and white foods that are served with sushi?

Along with sushi, pink (or white) food like the one in this picture is often served.

This is “pickled ginger” (In Japanese, we call it “gari.”).

The vinegar gives it a refreshing taste in your mouth.

Refresh your palate with some gari when you eat different sushi!

Where can I eat sushi in Japan?

Sushi restaurants can be found all over Japan, so you can eat it wherever you go.

However, please note that the price varies from store to store.

For example, conveyor belt sushi.

In this system, sushi is brought to your seat by a conveyor belt.

Typical stores include “KURASUSHI” and “SUSHIRO”.

There are stores all over Japan!

The prices start at 110 yen per plate, so it is easy to understand how to calculate the money.

Many of the restaurants have table seating, so you can easily enter with children.

Drinks include juices, beer and other alcoholic beverages, and all the green tea you can drink!

There’s a wide variety of fillings, including Nigiri made with raw fish, as well as more unusual items like hamburgers and roast beef!

The system allows you to choose only what you want to eat, so you don’t have to worry if you have many likes and dislikes.

Most high-end sushi restaurants have counter seats.

You can eat freshly made sushi right away.

Sushi made by artisans is very delicate, and the texture of the same sushi is completely different from that of conveyor belt sushi.

It is recommended for people who have eaten sushi in Japan many times, people who like fresh raw fish, and people who want to drink sake slowly.

You should definitely try sushi in Japan!

As we have mentioned, there are many types of sushi.

In the sequel, I will introduce more details about Nigiri. Enjoy!