Sushi Rakumi

The story

Sushi Rakumi Kyoto | Michelin-Starred Edomae Sushi in Gion Higashiyama

A Gion Sushi Counter with a View

Sushi Rakumi sits on the north side of Gion, along a row of buildings overlooking the Shirakawa canal and its cherry blossom trees. The second-floor waiting room offers a seasonal display—cherry blossoms lit up in spring, changing foliage throughout the year—that sets a tranquil tone before the meal.

Chef Kazuya Nomura’s Path

The sushi is the work of Kazuya Nomura, who trained at the prestigious Sushi Yoshitake in Tokyo while working at the renowned Gion Sasaki. He brings that experience back to Kyoto, forging a style that blends Kyoto’s kaiseki traditions with Edomae sushi techniques. Each piece is made with intention—"soul into each nigiri," as the restaurant puts it.

The Dining Experience

The restaurant operates two dinner seatings (17:00 and 19:30) and a lunch service at 12:00. The counter seating puts guests directly in front of Nomura, allowing close observation of his craft. The menu changes with the seasons, and the average dinner cost is 25,000–30,000 yen depending on the course. Lunch starts at 10,000 yen and can be tailored.

Sushi Rakumi earned a Michelin one star in 2026, recognition of its high-quality cooking and the precision of its Japanese cuisine. For those seeking a calm, refined sushi experience in the heart of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, this is a strong choice.