19 Different Types of Sushi – A Complete Guide to Japan’s Iconic Dishes
Sushi is more than raw fish on rice—it’s a beautifully diverse culinary art form. From traditional nigiri to modern fusion rolls like dragon roll sushi and rainbow roll sushi, the different types of sushi reflect centuries of Japanese tradition and regional innovation. Whether you prefer classic roll sushi, low carb sushi, or the latest American sushi trends, there’s a variety for every palate.
What is Sushi?
Sushi is a Japanese dish made with vinegared rice combined with ingredients like raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, or egg. It’s known for its balance of flavor, texture, and visual presentation. While often associated with raw fish, sushi actually refers to the seasoned rice at its core.
Explore this full guide to understand the names of sushi dishes, their ingredients, textures, and how they’re enjoyed across different sushi styles and dining experiences.
19 Different Types of Sushi – Complete Guide to Nigiri, Maki, Uramaki & More
1. Temaki Sushi
Temaki, also known as hand roll sushi, is a cone-shaped sushi made by rolling nori around rice, vegetables, and fish by hand. Unlike traditional maki, which is neatly sliced, temaki is designed to be eaten as-is, often immediately after being made.
Its casual nature makes it popular for home gatherings and izakaya-style Japanese eateries. With its portability and customizable fillings, hand rolls appeal to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters trying new sushi varieties.
2. Maki Sushi
Maki sushi (rolled sushi) is one of the most recognizable types worldwide. It features rice and various fillings like tuna, cucumber, or avocado, wrapped in a sheet of nori seaweed and sliced into bite-sized pieces. Variations include futomaki (thick rolls) and hosomaki (thin rolls).
This sushi style has led to many regional adaptations, such as the tuna sushi roll, dragon roll sushi, and rainbow roll sushi, making it a popular feature on any maki sushi menu. It’s a go-to choice for those new to sushi thanks to its familiar format and wide variety of flavors.
3. Nigiri Sushi
Nigiri is one of the most traditional and widely recognized forms of sushi. It consists of a small mound of vinegared rice, usually hand-pressed, topped with a slice of raw or cooked fish such as salmon, tuna, or shrimp. A small dab of wasabi is often placed between the rice and the topping.
Popular in both fine dining and casual settings, nigiri showcases the essence of Japanese sushi dishes—clean flavors, balance, and simplicity. You’ll commonly find ebi nigiri sushi (shrimp) or raw salmon sushi as menu staples in sushi bars around the world.
4. Uramaki Sushi
Uramaki, or inside-out sushi rolls, have rice on the outside and nori on the inside, enclosing the filling. This style was developed in the U.S. to appeal to Western diners and often includes multiple ingredients like avocado, crab, and cucumber.
Well-known American sushi types like the California roll, rainbow roll, and Philadelphia roll fall into this category. With vibrant presentation and creative fillings, uramaki rolls are now considered authentic sushi rolls enjoyed in restaurants around the world.
5. Chirashi Sushi
Chirashi sushi (scattered sushi) features a bowl of vinegared rice topped with a colorful assortment of raw fish, egg, seaweed, and vegetables. It’s often enjoyed at home or on special occasions in Japan due to its festive and customizable appearance.
This Japanese sushi variety is ideal for those who want the flavors of sushi without the formality of rolls. It’s considered a healthy, balanced option that showcases seasonal ingredients and is often part of holiday meals.
6. Inari Sushi
Inari sushi is a vegetarian-friendly variety made by stuffing vinegared rice into pockets of fried tofu known as “aburaage.” The tofu is slightly sweet, making this a flavorful and convenient snack.
You’ll frequently find it in Japan restaurant sushi takeout boxes or lunch bentos. Its simplicity, lack of raw fish, and portability have made it popular with children and those who prefer cooked sushi.
7. Temari Sushi
Temari sushi is a ball-shaped sushi often served during celebrations or as party food in Japan. These small rice balls are topped with colorful ingredients like shrimp, tuna, salmon, or vegetables.
Their bite-sized elegance and visual appeal make them ideal for picnics, tea parties, or as decorative dishes in Japanese foods sushi culture. Though less common in restaurants, they’re loved for their aesthetic and ease of preparation.
8. Gunkan Maki
Gunkan maki (battleship sushi) consists of a hand-formed oval of rice wrapped in nori with soft or loose toppings like sea urchin, salmon roe, or spicy tuna. The nori acts as a “boat” holding the topping in place.
This style is a staple in authentic sushi rolls menus and is often chosen for its rich flavors and textures. Gunkan maki allows chefs to serve ingredients that wouldn’t hold in traditional rolls, expanding the spectrum of sushi varieties.
9. Narezushi
Narezushi is the oldest form of sushi, dating back centuries. It involves fermenting fish with rice for months, resulting in a sour and strong flavor profile. It’s rarely eaten outside Japan today but remains an important part of sushi history.
Though not for every palate, narezushi is respected for its cultural value and connection to original sushi methods. It’s often referenced in studies of traditional sushi preparation.
10. Oshi Sushi (Oshizushi)
Oshi sushi is a pressed sushi made using a rectangular mold called an “oshibako.” Ingredients like mackerel or salmon are layered with rice and gently compressed before slicing into small rectangles.
This style is visually striking and often enjoyed during special events in regions like Osaka. Known as oshizushi sushi, it’s one of the most structured and geometric forms of sushi served in Japanese sushi restaurants.
11. Sasa Sushi
Sasa sushi is wrapped in bamboo leaves (sasa) for preservation and subtle flavor infusion. It often includes vinegared rice, fish, and pickled vegetables compactly wrapped and served in seasonal or regional meals.
This sushi is often prepared for festivals or as part of low carb sushi meals thanks to its simple, natural ingredients and portable design.
12. Sashimi
Sashimi consists of thin slices of raw fish such as tuna or salmon, served without rice. It’s a key component in Japanese dining and appeals to those seeking no rice sushi or a keto sushi option.
While not technically sushi, sashimi is often featured on the same menus and highlights the freshness and quality of sushi fish names used in traditional Japanese cuisine.
13. Sushi Burrito
A sushi burrito combines the flavors of sushi with the form factor of a burrito—large rolls filled with rice, fish, vegetables, and sauces, all wrapped in nori and eaten by hand.
Popular in American sushi bars and fast-casual eateries, it’s a fusion dish that appeals to younger audiences and those seeking a new twist on common sushi rolls.
14. Futomaki
Futomaki maki sushi is a thick, oversized roll typically filled with 4–6 ingredients such as tamagoyaki (egg), pickled gourd, and spinach. These colorful rolls are common during special events in Japan.
Its generous size and filling combinations make futomaki ideal for those who want all kinds of sushi in one bite—balanced, nutritious, and festive.
15. Niku Sushi
Niku sushi uses seared beef, chicken, or pork instead of fish. It’s often flame-torched or grilled to enhance flavor and texture, appealing to meat lovers and those who avoid raw fish.
As cooked sushi, niku sushi has become a trend on both traditional and international menus, offering a new perspective on classic sushi formats.
16. Vegetarian Sushi
Vegetarian sushi skips fish entirely and often uses avocado, cucumber, sweet egg (tamago), tofu, or pickled vegetables. It’s a staple in most modern sushi restaurants.
Perfect for plant-based eaters, it’s one of the most accessible sushi varieties and a great introduction to sushi culture.
17. Egg Sushi (Tamago Nigiri)
Tamago sushi consists of sweet, layered Japanese omelet placed on a bed of sushi rice. It’s light, slightly sweet, and loved by children and adults alike.
This item is often served at the end of omakase meals, representing a chef’s knife skills and balance of flavor.
18. Spicy Tuna Roll
This classic roll sushi includes spicy tuna mixed with chili sauce, scallions, and sometimes cucumber, wrapped in rice and seaweed. It’s a favorite in both Japan and the U.S.
As one of the most popular sushi dishes, it strikes the perfect balance between spice, texture, and protein.
19. Salmon Avocado Roll
Combining the richness of salmon with the creaminess of avocado, this roll is a modern favorite in many sushi menus around the world. It offers a buttery, satisfying mouthfeel.
This is a go-to item for both sushi beginners and long-time fans and commonly appears on common sushi rolls lists.
Conclusion
Whether you love traditional sushi like nigiri and maki or want to explore new favorites like niku sushi and sushi burritos, there’s a sushi style for everyone. From light and fresh to cooked and hearty, these different types of sushi showcase the beauty of Japanese culinary diversity.
Explore our full sushi menu and order your favorites now at Kintown Steak – Sushi Menu
