Nemuro Hanamaru Ginza:

Worth the Wait for Top-Tier Kaitenzushi?

〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 5 Chome−2−1 東急プラザ銀座 10階

April 15, 2025

Sushi is undeniably a must-try when visiting Japan, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming, making it hard to know where to find the best value and quality. While budget-friendly kaitenzushi (conveyor belt) chains like Kura Sushi or Hama Sushi are delicious and easy on the wallet, if you’re looking for something slightly more upscale without committing to a pricey omakase course, Nemuro Hanamaru in Ginza is our top recommendation.

Even after all these years exploring Tokyo's sushi scene for that ideal spot balancing quality and cost, Nemuro Hanamaru consistently comes out on top. Originally hailing from Nemuro in Hokkaido (a region renowned for its incredible seafood), this popular chain has several Tokyo locations, including near Tokyo Station and Korakuen. We've tried these locations, but the Ginza branch remains our favorite for one crucial reason: they hand-mold the shari (sushi rice). Other locations use rice-forming machines – cool technology, perhaps, but the texture and resulting taste just aren't the same as handcrafted sushi rice.

That said, the Ginza location is extremely popular, and you should expect to wait—sometimes for hours. That’s why we recommend it as a lunch spot, with the best chance of getting seated if you arrive right at opening. Hanamaru is inside Tokyu Plaza Ginza, which opens at 11:00 AM sharp. You won’t be allowed in early—security guards are stationed at most entrances (escalator, outdoor elevator, and the basement floor elevator connected to the metro). Locals know this too, and they begin lining up outside before opening time. If you want to be part of the first wave, you’ll need to line up early.

If you’re aiming for dinner instead, we recommend grabbing a ticket a couple of hours in advance and spending time shopping around Ginza while you wait. You can scan the QR code on the ticket to check your place in line in real time.

Must-Try Menu Items + Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

There are English menus available, but keep an eye out for the seasonal specials, often displayed or written only in Japanese (using your phone's Google Translate app can help here!). The real excitement often comes when a staff member rings a bell and parades a tray of limited-time specials around the restaurant – first come, first served! We've seen incredible offerings presented this way in the past: sweet corn gunkanmaki, grilled unagi (eel), special tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), fresh oysters, and other seasonal catches. If something catches your eye, be sure to raise your hand quickly before they run out!

Pro Tip #1 (The Escalator Dash): If you are physically able, you can sometimes beat those waiting for the elevators by making a dash up the escalators right at 11 am. However, note that you will not be seated unless your entire group is present, so this strategy only works if everyone in your party can make the walk up. Otherwise, stick together and take the elevator.

Pro Tip #2 (The Standing Bar Alternative): If the wait time is too long, head down to the B2 floor of Tokyu Plaza Ginza. Nemuro Hanamaru operates a small, standing-only sushi bar down there. It generally attracts less of a crowd and offers a much quicker way to enjoy their delicious, high-quality sushi.

And if you’ve got a little room left after your sushi feast, walk over to nearby Ginza Akebono for a mochi dessert—especially their seasonal ichigo daifuku if it’s in stock. It’s the perfect sweet ending to your Ginza food adventure.

There’s an extensive menu, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed, we’ve put together a list of recommendations below to help guide your order.

1. Hon-maguro akami

2. Salmon

3. O-ebi Tenmaki

4. Zangi (chicken karaage)

5. Ikura

6. Aburi engawa

7. Hon-katsuo

8. Tamagoyaki