Soy Sauce Types for Sushi and Sashimi

Japanese soy sauce (shoyu) comes in several styles. For everyday sushi, koikuchi (regular dark soy) is the standard. For sashimi, many chefs prefer the richer tamari or saishikomi. At a counter, the chef often uses nikiri, a soy-based glaze.

Main types. Koikuchi: standard dark soy, balanced — the everyday choice. Usukuchi: light-coloured but saltier — mainly for cooking. Tamari: thick, rich, little or no wheat — good with sashimi; some are gluten-free. Saishikomi: double-brewed, deep and sweet. Shiro: white soy, mostly wheat, pale and sweet.

Koikuchi

The soy sauce most people mean by "shoyu", brewed from soybeans and wheat. It is the default for dipping sushi.

Tamari

Made mostly or entirely from soybeans, tamari is thicker and richer, and clings to fish. Some brands are brewed with 100% soy and no wheat and labelled gluten-free — check the label. See gluten-free sushi.

Saishikomi and shiro

Saishikomi is brewed a second time in soy sauce instead of brine — deep, sweet and savoury, used sparingly with sashimi. Shiro (white) soy is pale and delicate, mainly for cooking.

Nikiri

At a counter, chefs brush nigiri with nikiri — soy sauce cooked with mirin and sometimes sake or dashi. That's why you shouldn't dip a glazed piece. See Edomae omakase explained.

Low-sodium versions exist for most styles. They're a good choice if you eat sushi often.

Pairing: koikuchi for everyday sushi · tamari for tuna and oily fish sashimi · less soy for delicate white fish — or just salt and citrus.

Soy is salty and usually contains wheat. Dip lightly, fish side down, and check labels if you avoid gluten.

Common questions

Which soy sauce is best for sushi?

Koikuchi for everyday; tamari for sashimi.

Is tamari gluten-free?

Only if labelled.

Where else can I look?

See wasabi and soy sauce.

Compiled by our editorial team from established Japanese culinary references, food safety guidance and Hong Kong restaurant and retailer information, retrieved September 2026. General information only. No brand or retailer paid for inclusion.