Hiraso Kakinoha-zushi Nara Main Store and Annex

Hiraso occupies two adjoining spaces in Naramachi: a main building and an annex near Sarusawa Pond and Kōfuku-ji Temple. Its cooking draws on a preparation associated with Yoshino and Gojo, where salted fish, vinegared rice and persimmon leaves helped preserve and carry sushi through an inland region. Here the dish arrives in platters and boxes, alongside seasonal cooking that makes the visit more than a quick tasting.

The official menu lists kakinoha-zushi with red miso soup or clear broth, plus a midday set with small dishes, sesame tofu, sashimi, nyūmen noodles, sushi and dessert. The annex offers an evening course with sushi, tempura and dessert. Diners often praise the friendly staff and presentation; some find the fish slices thin or consider the meal expensive for a simple lunch. Remove the leaf before eating: it is not food but part of the sushi’s aroma and preservation.

Kintetsu Nara Station is about a ten-minute walk away, and JR Nara about fifteen minutes. The restaurant sits south of Sarusawa Pond, on a route that can continue through Naramachi’s traditional shops. It closes Mondays and has no private parking. The main shop sells until 8:30 pm; the annex dining room operates 11:30 am–8 pm, last order, with possible seasonal changes. Lunch reservations for individual visitors are accepted only for groups of ten or more.