Japan is world-famous for its rich culinary heritage, with unique creations that have been imitated worldwide for years. Ramen, one-of-a-kind sushi, and exquisitely raised wagyu beef are sought after by millions yearly, earning Japan the status of the second country with the most Michelin-Star Restaurants. One-star, two-star, and many three-star establishments are dotted throughout Japan—some specializing in Japanese cuisine, others blending traditional ingredients with pasta, snails, and stir-fried rice. That’s right: plenty of Michelin Star Restaurants in Japan serve more than just Japanese food.
How many Michelin Star Restaurants are there In Japan?
Across Japan, there are 539 Michelin Star Restaurants; A mix of 3 star 2 and 1-star establishments have been collecting in Japan since 2007, When Japan was awarded their first Michelin star to multiple establishments.
Fun Fact: Tokyo holds the record for the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. 263 stars in one city, with 11 out of the 263 being 3-star restaurants in 2020!
Why does Japan have so many Michelin stars?
The concept of Shun
6 Michelin Star Restaurants to try in Japan for Japanese cuisine.
6 Michelin Star Restaurants to try in Japan for global cuisines.
Why does Japan have so many Michelin stars?
Japanese citizens have been praised for their diet culture, prolonging the longevity of the average life span – by producing only clean and organic ingredients, Japan’s staples like steamed rice, noodles, seaweed and soy sauce are often locally sourced and minimally processed. Citizens stay clear of processed fats, animal proteins, and added sugars – and combat these additives with clean produce & fresh fish! Ulitimately enhanicng the flavours in Japanese cuisine compared to the western world. Additionally, the practice of eating fermented food has been an integral part of Japanese culinary practices. Firstly used as a method to store food for longer in the BC era – Individuals soon realised the process of fermentation increased nutritional value by aiding digestibility, creating a new taste for traditional foods.
Fact: Japan eats 10% of the fish caught globally, meanwhile the population only makes 2% of the global population.
The concept of Shun (旬)
Japanese culinary practices have also evolved around the changes of the season. Being a culture deeply connected to nature, the concept of “Shun”, meaning “in season”, is an act that celebrates natures ingredients at their purest. A country blessed with four prominent seasons, Japanese chefs have mastered the changing of the seasons to reflect in their dishes. Instead of adding preservatives to extend shelf life, traditional households and restaurants will adapt their menus to the time of year. In Japan, it’s not just about taste; it’s a cultural appreciation of time, transience, and harmony with nature.
- Michelin Star Restaurants to try in Japan for Japanese cuisine:
- Sushi – Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi
Stars: 2
If you’re a sushi lover, Sukiyabashi is a must-visit for your trip. Featured on the documentary, “Jiro Dreams of Sushi,” Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi is the restaurant of Chef Takashi, trained by his legendary father, Chef Jiro Ono sushi – a world-renowned sushi connoisseur. Enjoy a 14-piece Omakase sushi lunch, with each piece reflecting the season — a menu that’s always evolving. An intimate dining experience, no photos allowed, Sukiyabashi wants every guest to be present and appreciate the Japanese delicacy.
Booking at Sukiyabashi can be tricky for foreigners, being a traditional Japanese restaurant, they prioritize Japanese citizens over tourists, the best way to get a seat at their table is to ask your hotel concierge to book it for you.
Location: 3F, Roppongi Hills Residence B, 6-12-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Getting There:
10 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Azabu-Juban Station, 10 minutes walk from Roppongi Station
576 meters from Roppongi.
- Kanda
Stars: 3
Looking for an up close and personal dining experience, Kanda is your place! The experience is inspired by a Japanese Tea Ceremony, enveloping you in tranquillity, intimacy and food! A table centred round the kitchen with only 8 seats, Kanda showcases exceptional ingredients like Snow Crab, Awa Beef, and Naruto-caught fish — celebrating Japan’s finest local and organic produce.
Booking: Make reservations by phone — something many tourists struggle with in Japan. Most SIM or eSIM services don’t provide a real Japanese phone number, making it difficult to book Michelin-starred restaurants or local experiences. With Mobal, you can get an eSIM with a genuine Japanese phone number with your data, perfect for both short and long stays!
Location: a.Toranomon Hills Residential Tower 1F 1-1-1 Atago, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Getting There:
Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
Approximately 2 minutes walk from “Toranomon Hills Station” A1 exit
Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
Approximately 6 minutes walk from “Toranomon Station” Exit 2b
159 meters from Toranomon Hills.
- Tempura Kondo. – tempura
Stars: 2
Once a street-food classic in Tokyo, Japan, and now a fine dining dish, Tempura Kondo, the restaurant centers its concept around light, airy batter (tempura). Chef Fumio Kondo elevated the natural tempura batter fish, vegetable, or meat into a two-star Michelin dining experience. The menu corresponds with the season, but the batter always stays the same – using a unique flour which doesn’t absorb oil, Chef Fumio plays around with the food technique, tempura.
Booking Tempura should be done in advance, and can be done through My Concierge Japan.
Location: 9F, 5-5-13 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0061, Japan
Getting There: Tokyo Metro Ginza Station 3-minute walk (Exit B5)
117 meters from Ginza.
- Hyakuyaku by Tokuyamazushi
Stars: 1
Isolating Japan’s unique approach to food: Hyakuyaku by Tokuyamazushi focuses on the process of Fermentation. Practicing timeless techniques and using the blessing of nature’s timings – Enjoy dishes crafted from seasonal and wild ingredients, perfectly paired with sake, wine, and tea selected to complement each flavour.
Bookings: Call or make a reservation online.
Location: 9F, 4-4-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0061, Japan
Getting There: 2 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Station, Exit A13
113 meters from Ginza.
- Imafuku – wagyu beef
Stars: 1 for 6 consecutive years
Imafuku is dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Wagyu beef, prized for its rich marbling and tenderness and declared a national treasure of Japan in 1970. Offering private dining rooms, and Shabu Shabu experiences (Hot pot), Imafuku is a must if you’re a meat lover! Visitors recommend experiencing both experiences, sukiyaki and Shabu Shabu, for you to experience Imafuku at its best.
Bookings: With only 8 tables in the whole restaurant, make sure to book in advance. Call or book online.
Location: Platinum 1-12-19 Minato Ward Tokyo
Getting There:
Take the Shirokane Takanawa Exit 4, go up the escalator in front of you, and follow the road to the right.
Behind the parking lot at the end of the road
279 meters from Shirokane Takanawa.
- Shutei Tanaka
Stars: Mentioned on the Michelin star guide.
Their aim is to elevate the traditional Yakitori stick into a culinary experience. Two brothers aim to make chicken on a stick unforgettable for all who visit, using every part of the bird they season and enhance these selected pieces with intention.
Booking: Call or make a reservation online.
Location: 3‑25‑7 Sumida, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: 5 minutes walk from Kanegafuchi Station on the Tobu Skytree Line
361 meters from Kanegafuchi.
From ancient techniques to bold modern fusions, Japan’s Michelin-starred restaurants reflect more than just fine dining — they embody a culture of precision, respect for nature, and an endless pursuit of perfection. Whether it’s the delicate artistry of sushi, the satisfying crunch of tempura, or the refined elegance of wagyu, every dish tells a story rooted in seasonality and craftsmanship. With over 500 Michelin stars shining across the country, Japan continues to prove that food here isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience, a tradition, and a celebration of life itself. And if you want to access to booking these culinary experiences, make sure you grab your Voice and Data Esim from Mobal, making your trip a 5-star experience.
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