Overlooking a river, this two-story Japanese restaurant is highly appreciated for its barbecued fish. Try the mackerel and the cod too ­ a fish-lover's dream. Friendly staff and a relaxed ambiance make this a delightful choice.

Fresh sashimi and long sushi rolls are the favorite fare at this modern Japanese restaurant. Highly recommended is the 119 Roll, with bright red tuna topped with a divine spicy-sweet sauce. Hatsune offers an inexpensive fixed price lunch #13;#10;on weekdays and a lunch buffet at weekends.

An authentic Japanese experience in China, Matsuko offers all your favorites ­ sushi, sashimi, miso soup, wasabe sauce and delicious grilled fish. It's especially recommended for the buffet lunch (daily 11:30am - 2pm) for just 68 CNY, with unlimited Asahi beer or soft drinks and a free plate of sashimi. Small groups can ask for a private room with tatami mats, low-set tables and bamboo screens. The service is impeccable.

DONGCHENG DISTRICT. Impeccable in every way, RBL is a Japanese fusion restaurant that will bowl you over. The decor is coolly minimalist, and the live band downstairs creates some great blues in the evenings; but it's the succulent sashimi in Chinese sauces that will forever be remembered. You'll have a hard job to choose what NOT to eat at RBL ­ grilled moonfish with Sichuan peppercorns, sliced truffles, sakura smoked duck sushi, yukke marinated Wagyu beef, dalian scallop sashimi brushed with lemon zest, or Shandong eel marinated in ginger, rice vinegar, and soy. Desserts are equally divine ­ creme brûlee with orange marmalade, and green tea cheesecake are among the favorites. A classic restaurant that harmonizes two of the world's most delicate cuisines.

CHAOYANG DISTRICT. This unpretentious Japanese diner offers great fresh sushi and sashimi, and is inexpensive compared to other Japanese restaurants in Beijing. Tuna and salmon are melt-in-your-mouth good and the soft shell crab and tiger prawns are also recommended. Wash it all down with Japanese beer.