Founded in 2002, the Tokyo Sushi Academy claims to be Japan's foremost trade school for Edomae sushi, a traditional Tokyo style of sushi that focuses on nigiri-zushi, or raw fish placed on balled and vinegared rice.

In contrast to the ten-year learning process typically required of sushi apprentices, the school offers condensed yet comprehensive training that includes a year-long sushi chef course and an eight-week diploma course, the latter popular among foreign students who can participate on a tourist visa, as well as Japanese students with overseas experience eager to return abroad with their newfound skills.