Introduction
I recently visited the Japanese Association of Thailand’s Sathorn main building, located about a 6-minute walk from BTS Chong Nonsi station, and dined at their Japanese and set-meal restaurant, “The Japan.” I’d like to share my review.
About the affordable Japanese restaurant “The Japan” in Sathorn
The Japanese Association of Thailand’s Sathorn main building is located about a 6-minute walk from BTS Chong Nonsi station. “The Japan,” a Japanese and set-meal restaurant, is located inside this building. You can reach the main building by walking through the building with McDonald’s right after exiting Chong Nonsi station, taking a straight path.
The Japanese Association of Thailand, established in 1913, is an organization with a long history and tradition, providing mutual assistance to Japanese residents in Thailand. Many might be familiar with it through member-exclusive coupons, various events, club activities, its library, or even the Eiken (STEP) English proficiency tests. In addition to the Sathorn main building, there’s also a Sukhumvit branch in Phrom Phong.
Inside the Japanese Association of Thailand’s Sathorn main building is the Japanese and set-meal restaurant “The Japan,” where you can enjoy Japanese dishes and set meals at affordable prices, similar to a company cafeteria. While non-members can also dine here, presenting your membership card offers a 10 THB discount on your bill.
Contrary to what one might expect, the customer base wasn’t solely Japanese; there were quite a few Thai customers as well. It seems that Thai people who enjoy Japanese cuisine are aware of this hidden gem.
There were also many manga available, suggesting it’s a place where you can relax and read as well.
The menu includes various items such as bento boxes, grilled fish, sashimi, sushi, onigiri, rice bowls, yakitori, fried dishes, tempura, curry, sukiyaki, ramen, soba, udon, yakisoba, omurice, salads, snacks, desserts, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. Set meals are priced in the low 200 THB range, which is considerably cheaper compared to the typical 300 THB price point in areas like Phrom Phong and Thonglor.
Menu at “The Japan” (Photos, Prices, Review)
I ordered the “Barachirashi” (scattered sushi) for 230 THB. All menu items come with unlimited refills of green tea, with a choice of hot or iced. Despite the affordable price, it was generously topped with various ingredients and the overall portion size was quite substantial (about 1.2 servings). I estimate this would cost around 300-350 THB in Phrom Phong or Thonglor. The taste was good, and the quality of the ingredients was also satisfactory.
My child had the “Nigiri 8 pieces” for 210 THB, which also looked delicious. Sushiro’s cheapest option is 20 THB per piece, so the price is similar (at The Japan, it’s 26 THB per piece, plus miso soup and green tea).
Recommendation Score for “The Japan”
To be helpful, I’ll assign a score in the style of Tabelog (Japan’s top restaurant-review site). I personally feel that the Japanese and set-meal restaurant “The Japan” at the Japanese Association of Thailand Sathorn main building corresponds to a Tabelog score of around 3.5, which is generally considered well-regarded. I’ll leave this note here.
Conclusion
The Japanese and set-meal restaurant “The Japan,” located in the Japanese Association of Thailand Sathorn main building, offers affordable Japanese dishes and set meals. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re going to the Japanese Association, but it’s also a place I’d recommend stopping by if you’re in the vicinity.
| Name | Japanese Association of Thailand Sathorn Main Building Japanese and Set-Meal Restaurant “The Japan” |
| Cuisine Type | Japanese, Set Meals, Casual Dining |
| Budget | 150–300 THB (per set meal item *free green tea included*) |
| Opening Hours | 11:00 – 21:00 |
| Access | Approx. 6-minute walk from BTS Chong Nonsi Station *Inside the Japanese Association of Thailand Sathorn Main Building* |
| Phone Number | 02-234-2155 |
| Address | Inside the Japanese Association of Thailand Sathorn Main Building, 92, Sathon Thani Building, 2 N Sathon Rd, Si Lom, Bang Rak, Bangkok |
| Web |
