Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Kyoto

Sushi Rakumi, located in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, offers an intimate dining experience with only eight counter seats. The restaurant is renowned for its omakase course, which features a harmonious blend of Kyoto cuisine and Edomae-style sushi. The head chef, Kazuya Nomura, trained at Gion Sasaki and Sushi Yoshitake in Ginza, bringing a wealth of experience to the establishment. The menu includes seasonal appetizers, a selection of nigiri sushi, main dishes like steamed abalone with liver sauce, and desserts such as seasonal fruits and Japanese sweets. The restaurant operates in two dinner shifts: 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM, with reservations required. The average cost per person is approximately 25,000 to 30,000 yen, with credit card payments only. Sushi Rakumi has received high ratings across various platforms, with an aggregated rating of 4.4 out of 5. The community sentiment reflects appreciation for the quality of food, the chef's expertise, and the overall dining experience.

Discover the exquisite charm of Sushi Rakumi in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward.

Nestled in the heart of Miyoshichō, Sushi Rakumi offers an intimate dining experience that captivates food enthusiasts and travelers alike. This renowned sushi restaurant is celebrated for delivering a world-class omakase journey, combining impeccable craftsmanship with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally and beyond.

An intimate setting with a personal touch

With only eight counter seats, Sushi Rakumi ensures a cozy and exclusive atmosphere where the chefs engage personally with guests. Despite language barriers, the staff's warmth and humor shine through, making every meal feel like a special occasion. The dining experience is thoughtfully paced, even accommodating guests who arrive late without compromising the quality or flow of the omakase courses.

Exceptional culinary craftsmanship and fresh ingredients

Sushi Rakumi's menu showcases a balance of cooked and raw offerings, highlighting delicacies such as uni and snow crab that delight the palate. Each dish reflects the chef’s mastery, emphasizing the natural flavors and seasonal freshness of top-quality ingredients. Pair your meal with an exclusive selection of sake to elevate the experience further.

 The omakase course is priced at approximately $295.90 per person.

How many seats are available at the restaurant?

 Yes, reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

Sushi Rakumi is highly praised for its exceptional omakase experience, fresh ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere.

Guests often highlight the head chef Nomura san’s friendly nature, the superb quality of seasonal flavors, and the rare sake selections available. Many consider it one of Kyoto's top Michelin-level dining experiences, leaving visitors eager to return.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, Sushi Rakumi offers an exceptional culinary journey into the world of authentic Japanese sushi. This renowned omakase restaurant, with its intimate setting of just eight seats, promises a personalized and immersive dining experience that delights both seasoned sushi aficionados and curious travelers alike.

Sushi Rakumi: An Intimate Kyoto Omakase Experience

Sushi Rakumi is celebrated for its meticulously crafted sushi, featuring the freshest ingredients sourced locally and seasonally. The chef's skillful hand and dedication to perfection shine through in every piece, from delicate nigiri to beautifully prepared cooked courses that surprise and delight the palate.

Behind the scenes, Chef Nomura's passion and mastery bring each dish to life, creating a dining experience that is both educational and deeply satisfying. The restaurant's history is rooted in Kyoto's rich culinary traditions, yet it embraces seasonal flavors and innovative techniques to keep the experience fresh and exciting.

Meet the Chef and Discover Kyoto's Sushi Heritage

What makes Sushi Rakumi unique? Its intimate setting, personalized service, and exceptional quality of ingredients set it apart as a top Kyoto sushi destination. Why visit? To experience authentic omakase crafted by a master chef in a cozy, exclusive environment. What's nearby? The restaurant is conveniently located near Kyoto's historic sites and vibrant cultural districts.

Indulge in an unforgettable sushi experience at Sushi Rakumi, where every piece is a testament to Kyoto's rich culinary heritage and the chef's artistry. Reserve your seat now to savor the seasonal flavors and pristine ingredients that define this world-class omakase restaurant.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYdnZIYkp3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG_d13PwJAWARtHhmvmUygtc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYdnZIYkp3EAE

Amazing omakase meal ~250 usd per person. The chefs tried to engage with us despite the language barrier. They were super kind and funny. They had more cooked courses than raw fish. There was a total of 8 seats. We were late (got the dinner time mixed up) and they still accommodated us and gave us the courses quickly so we could catch up.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzcWIyQ0Z3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG_d13PwJAWARtHhmvmUygtc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzcWIyQ0Z3EAE

(4.2/5) Highly recommend trying an omakase restaurant in the Sanjo area! The ingredients are incredibly fresh, and the dishes are expertly prepared. The uni and snow crab are absolutely delightful. All the chefs are really nice and friendly.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiNEt6UWFnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG_d13PwJAWARtHhmvmUygtc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiNEt6UWFnEAE

2 seatings for dinner in this 6 counter restaurant. The head chef Nomura san is extremely friendly and he made the whole dining experience light hearted and fun. Truly a spectacular meal which featured such quality ingridents and the seasonal flavours. The sake range is truly special and we were able to savour many different types which we had not seen before.
Thank you Nomura san, we will be back! ごちそ様でした！

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM5eVlUSkdREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG_d13PwJAWARtHhmvmUygtc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM5eVlUSkdREAE

Sushi Rakumi exceeded my expectations in every way. Without a doubt, the taste and flavor here are the best I've experienced in Japan. The quality of the ingredients, the skill of the chef, and the attentiveness of the service all combined to create a truly memorable dining experience. It's safe to say this is a world-class sushi restaurant.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYejdySDVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG_d13PwJAWARtHhmvmUygtc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYejdySDVBRRAB

Wonderful experience. Very intimate setting, sits 8, and the very best sushi I have ever had. Favorite Michelin experience yet.

Luxury Omakase Experience at Sushi Rakumi Kyoto

Sushi Rakumi opened in January 2019 in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, quickly earning a Michelin star in the 'Michelin Guide Kyoto 2020.' The restaurant was established by head chef Kazuya Nomura, who trained at Gion Sasaki and Sushi Yoshitake in Ginza. It offers an omakase course that blends Kyoto cuisine with Edomae-style sushi, featuring seasonal ingredients and culinary techniques.

Sushi Rakumi: A Michelin Star Journey in Kyoto's Culinary Scene 

Nestled in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, 

 opened its doors in January 2019, quickly establishing itself as a beacon of exquisite Japanese culinary artistry. This intimate sushi restaurant, celebrated for its refined omakase experience, has captivated food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with its dedication to quality and seasonality.

Since its inception in 2019, Sushi Rakumi has distinguished itself through a commitment to authentic sushi craftsmanship combined with an inviting atmosphere. In just one year, the restaurant earned a prestigious Michelin star in the "Michelin Guide Kyoto 2020," a testament to its culinary excellence and meticulous attention to detail.

Sushi Rakumi offers an exclusive omakase menu featuring a balance of fresh raw fish and expertly cooked delicacies. With a limited seating of just eight guests, this intimate setting allows chefs to engage personally, crafting a memorable journey through seasonal flavors and premium ingredients. The restaurant's reputation is further enhanced by its curated sake selection, complementing the meal with rare and unique varieties.

 with only eight seats, fostering a personalized connection with the chefs.

 recognized for exceptional omakase and culinary craftsmanship.

 curated daily for authentic, flavorful sushi.

 who make each meal a delightful and memorable experience.

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Good for Children

In the heart of Kyoto's picturesque Higashiyama Ward lies a culinary gem, Sushi Rakumi—an oasis for lovers of exquisite Japanese cuisine. This charming restaurant, tucked away in the quaint neighborhood of Miyoshichō, effortlessly combines tradition and innovation, presenting diners with an enchanting dining experience. Sushi Rakumi prides itself on its mastery of sushi-making, featuring a seasonal menu that narrates the story of Japan’s rich culinary heritage. Each piece of sushi, meticulously prepared by skilled chefs, serves as a canvas showcasing artistry and dedication, enticing visitors to explore the harmonious balance of flavors.

Sushi Rakumi

An exquisite omakase course featuring seasonal appetizers, a selection of nigiri sushi, main dishes, and desserts, showcasing the finest ingredients and culinary techniques.

Appetizer

Nigiri Sushi

Main Dishes

Dessert

Omakase Course Menu

Sushi rakumi menu overview at kyoto's intimate omakase dining experience.

Nestled in the heart of Higashiyama Ward, Sushi Rakumi offers a world-class sushi experience renowned for its exceptional omakase course. This intimate restaurant seats only eight guests, creating a personalized and engaging dining atmosphere where the chef's skill and seasonal ingredients truly shine.

While Sushi Rakumi specializes in an omakase dining journey that flows seamlessly, guests can anticipate the beginning of their meal with delicately prepared seasonal fish and fresh seafood that tease the palate and set the tone for the courses ahead.

The centerpiece of the menu is the Omakase Course, a meticulously crafted selection showcasing the best seasonal fish, fresh seafood, and vegetables. Each dish is expertly prepared to highlight the natural flavors and textures, reflecting the chef's deep expertise and commitment to quality.

Though sushi is the star here, the omakase experience often concludes with subtly sweet and seasonal Japanese desserts, thoughtfully paired to provide a delicate finish to the meal.

Sushi Rakumi complements its exquisite dishes with a curated selection of sake and Japanese beers, enhancing the flavors of each course and offering an authentic pairing experience.

Exclusive omakase experience limited to eight seats per seating ensuring an intimate and personalized meal.

Chef Nomura’s warm and engaging approach, creating a light-hearted and memorable dining atmosphere.

Seasonal flavors expertly showcased through a variety of cooked and raw courses beyond traditional sushi.

Savor authentic sushi at Sushi Rakumi in Kyoto's historic Higashiyama Ward. Experience exquisite flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Book now!

Sushi Rakumi: Authentic Sushi in Kyoto's Higashiyama

Kyoto City Municipality

A set menu featuring seasonal appetizers, a selection of nigiri sushi, main dishes, and desserts, highlighting the finest ingredients and culinary techniques.

Omakase Course

A lighter version of the omakase course, available during lunchtime, featuring a selection of seasonal dishes.

Lunch Course

 is a true gem for sushi aficionados and travelers seeking an exclusive Japanese dining adventure. With only eight seats at the counter, this intimate spot offers an atmosphere where culinary craftsmanship and personal connection converge beautifully.

At Sushi Rakumi, the culinary centerpiece is the 

, a chef’s selection of seasonal Japanese delicacies that transcends the typical sushi experience. Priced around 296 USD per person, this carefully curated menu emphasizes freshness and quality over quantity, featuring more cooked courses than raw fish, delighting even the most discerning palettes.

The restaurant’s intimate size fosters a warm and engaging ambiance where the chefs, led by the friendly head chef Nomura-san, interact with guests, making each visit a personalized encounter. Even language barriers melt away thanks to their kindness and humor, elevating the dining experience into something truly memorable. With two seatings per evening, Sushi Rakumi ensures attentive service without rushing, inviting guests to savor every bite.

Sushi Rakumi prides itself on sourcing the freshest seafood, with standout offerings like the delicate uni and succulent snow crab that have won praise for their sublime flavors. Alongside sushi, the menu showcases seasonal flavors expertly prepared to highlight natural textures. Complement your meal with a select sake range that's as special as the dishes, featuring varieties rarely found elsewhere.

in an intimate setting of only eight seats, fostering a personal connection with the chefs.

that goes beyond raw sushi, incorporating delicate cooked dishes to highlight variety and depth.

with fresh seafood like uni and snow crab, carefully sourced for maximum flavor and freshness.

that makes every guest feel welcome and engaged, ensuring a relaxed yet refined meal.

Whether you're a seasoned sushi lover or a curious traveler eager to explore Kyoto's culinary landscape, Sushi Rakumi promises a world-class, unforgettable dining adventure. Reservations are essential given the small seating, so plan ahead to secure your spot at this exquisite omakase destination.

Discover Sushi Rakumi in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward 

Nestled in the historic heart of Kyoto at 332-6 Miyoshichō, Sushi Rakumi offers an extraordinary omakase dining experience that captivates sushi lovers and culinary adventurers alike. This Michelin-starred gem is renowned for its commitment to using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, showcasing seasonal flavors with masterful precision. The intimate setting, featuring just eight seats around a sleek counter, creates a personalized and engaging atmosphere where the chefs' skill and passion shine.

 with more cooked courses than raw fish, offers a delightful twist on traditional sushi dining. The chefs’ warmth and humor transcend any language barriers, making every visit feel like a unique, friendly gathering rather than just a meal. Diners have frequently praised the special sake selection, allowing guests to savor rare and exquisite varieties that complement each course perfectly.

With attentive service and a focus on seasonal ingredients like uni and snow crab, Sushi Rakumi promises a gastronomic journey that honors Kyoto’s culinary heritage. The 8-seat counter design fosters an intimate experience where the head chef often personally interacts with guests, making the dinner light-hearted and memorable.

While Sushi Rakumi stands out for its culinary excellence and intimate ambiance, there are some practical aspects to keep in mind. The high price point, approximately 250 USD per person, reflects the premium quality and exclusivity but may not suit all budgets. Reservations can be challenging due to the limited seating, and walk-ins are not accommodated. Additionally, the restaurant does not accept cash payments, so having credit card options ready is essential.

 may require planning well in advance to secure your spot.

 which could impact privacy for some diners.

For those seeking an authentic and high-end sushi adventure in Kyoto, Sushi Rakumi delivers a world-class experience that justifies its premium price and exclusivity. The combination of expertly crafted dishes, intimate seating, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers who appreciate refined Japanese cuisine. Planning ahead and understanding the few limitations will help ensure your visit is as seamless and memorable as the exquisite flavors served.

Kyoto Prefecture

Discover Kyoto's top-rated sushi restaurant, Sushi Rakumi, offering exquisite omakase courses blending Kyoto cuisine & Edomae-style sushi. Book now!

Kyoto Sushi Rakumi - Michelin Star Omakase Dining Experience

Experience top-tier Kyoto sushi at Sushi Rakumi, with seasonal ingredients, intimate setting, and Michelin recognition. Reserve your table today!

Explore Kyoto's Culinary Gem - Sushi Rakumi's Exclusive Omakase

Enjoy an authentic Kyoto sushi experience at Sushi Rakumi, featuring fresh seasonal ingredients, expert chef, and exclusive omakase. Book your visit now!

Luxury Omakase Experience at Sushi Rakumi Kyoto

LURRA°

Shinmonzen Yonemura

Kodaiji Wakuden