9 Japanese influencer restaurant: Tokyo's long-established sushi restaurant, Sushi Ko Honten Ginza, Marunouchi branch

Must Do Experiences

• Savour the chef's daily omakase selection featuring the absolute freshest seasonal seafood sourced directly from Toyosu Market.

• Watch the master sushi chefs in action as they expertly slice fish and craft perfect nigiri right before your eyes.

• Pair your exquisite sushi courses with premium Japanese sake or a carefully selected wine recommended by the sommelier.

Hidden Gems

• Ask the chef about the day's special seasonal catch, as they often reserve rare, limited-availability fish for guests who show genuine interest in the craft.

• Notice the meticulous preparation of the shari (sushi rice), which is seasoned with a proprietary blend of red and white vinegar unique to Sushi Ko Honten.

• Enjoy the quieter, more intimate atmosphere of the lunch service, which offers the same exceptional quality as dinner but in a more relaxed setting.

What Makes it Special

• The restaurant boasts a prestigious legacy as one of Tokyo's long-established sushi institutions, blending time-honoured Edomae techniques with modern culinary flair.

• Every meal is a bespoke experience, as the chef dynamically designs the menu based on the highest quality ingredients available on that specific day.

• Located in the upscale Marunouchi district, it offers a refined, elegant dining environment that perfectly complements the world-class cuisine.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The lunch service between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM is ideal for travellers seeking a more relaxed pace and excellent value without compromising on quality. For a vibrant, upscale evening atmosphere, book a dinner slot around 6:00 PM to enjoy the full omakase experience paired with premium sake. Winter months are particularly spectacular for sushi lovers, as the cold waters yield the fattest and most flavourful fish like tuna and yellowtail.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Focus on close-up macro shots of the nigiri to capture the beautiful marbling of the fish and the glossy sheen of the soy sauce glaze.

• Capture the chef's hands in motion at the counter, but always politely ask for permission before taking photos of the staff or other guests.

• Avoid using flash photography, as it disrupts the serene ambiance and can be distracting to the chefs crafting the delicate dishes.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

It is customary to eat nigiri sushi with your hands or chopsticks, and you should dip only the fish side lightly into the soy sauce to prevent the rice from falling apart. Tipping is not practised in Japan, as exceptional service is considered a standard part of the dining experience and is already reflected in the service fee. Express your gratitude to the chef with a simple gochisosama deshita (thank you for the meal) at the end of your visit.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Spring brings the highly anticipated arrival of cherry blossom-themed seasonal appetizers and delicate white fish like sea bream.

• Autumn features rich, fatty catches such as Pacific saury and seasonal mushrooms incorporated into the chef's special side dishes.

• The winter season is celebrated with premium bluefin tuna and snow crab, making it the ultimate peak season for sushi purists.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• If you have seafood or shellfish allergies, you must communicate this clearly at the time of booking, as cross-contamination in a dedicated sushi kitchen is a risk.

• Be mindful of the hot green tea served at the counter, as traditional ceramic cups can retain heat and burn your fingers.

• Ensure you have a clear plan for your return journey, especially if enjoying the evening omakase with alcoholic beverages, as Tokyo trains stop running around midnight.