#Japan #Kyoto #Kawaii Culture #FUTURE TRAIN #DAIAMOND DINING

FUTURE TRAIN: A New Dining Experience in Kyoto

The culinary landscape of Kyoto is set to be transformed with the upcoming launch of "FUTURE TRAIN KYOTO DINER & CAFE," a unique dining concept built on a repurposed railway in the Umekojihighline area. Spearheaded by Diamond Dining Co., Ltd., this innovative restaurant will officially open its doors for a preview on August 20, 2025, presenting a new model of dining that intertwines food, art, and storytelling.

Reviving the Past for a Vibrant Future

FUTURE TRAIN is the result of a collaboration between multiple local organizations aiming to revitalize the area surrounding the former railway. The project kicked off in March 2025 based on a partnership agreement among various companies and local government. This agreement emphasizes the utilization of railway spaces to breathe new life into the community. Under the creative vision of renowned artist Sebastian Masuda, known for popularizing Kawaii culture, the abandoned Thunderbird train carriages have been transformed into a whimsical dining environment, enabling visitors to enjoy a one-of-a-kind culinary journey.

Upon entering, guests will feel as if they’ve stepped onto a platform ready for an exhilarating voyage. The idea behind FUTURE TRAIN is to prompt patrons to explore their own perceptions of the future, making the dining experience not just about food but also about inspiration and creativity. The underlying theme, "Take Me To The FUTURE," encourages visitors to draw connections to their colorful, diverse futures. It seeks to ignite imagination and provide a space for reflection in today’s rapidly changing world.

Unique Dining Areas Mimicking Train Cars

FUTURE TRAIN features three distinct dining areas, each representing different trains from the past:

1. First Car (1号車): This area is dedicated to art and creativity, featuring installations that blend light, sound, and visuals. The design retains elements from the original Thunderbird, including its cockpit. Scheduled to open in late September 2025, it promises to engage visitors through interactive experiences.

2. Second Car (2号車): Inspired by dining cars, this main dining area serves a range of original dishes in a retro-futuristic setting. Delight in a vibrant atmosphere filled with the buzz of conversation and the joy of food.

3. Third Car (3号車): Designed for a more casual experience, this space includes a bar and box seating, along with unique outdoor tables where patrons can enjoy relaxed dining. The drink and dining area will be ready for preview on August 20.

An Exciting Menu Awaits

The menu, titled “KYOTO Diner,” beautifully blends the lively atmosphere of a diner with Kyoto's cultural elements. Guests can look forward to visually stunning and satisfying dishes like:

• - Luxurious Burger "Ume Mirai": For 3,000 yen, this burger features a stylish sakura-shaped bun, filled with premium Wagyu and seasonal veggies, topped with a special sweet and savory sauce.
• - "Future Ekiben Box": At 2,800 yen, this bento-style offering includes an assortment of dishes like sandwiches, rice bowls, and more, all packaged in a retro-inspired design.
• - "Birdy Buddy's Pancake": Priced at 2,200 yen, these fluffy pancakes are decorated with Mont Blanc cream to resemble the train conductor, creating not just a delightful taste but also a cheerful presentation.
• - "Kawaii Five-Story Tower Parfait": Retailing for 2,600 yen, this extravagant parfait stands over 30 cm tall and showcases a mix of textures and flavors reminiscent of Kyoto’s sweetness.

Complementing these dishes, a range of drinks including signature cocktails and three-colored shakes inspired by Japanese flavors will be available, catering to both those who drink alcohol and non-drinkers alike.

A Collaboration of Creative Forces

Sebastian Masuda, the mastermind behind the Kawaii Monster Cafe, returns to work with Diamond Dining after nearly a decade to create this exciting project. Known for capturing the essence of Kawaii culture in various forms, he is sure to bring a whimsical and interactive dining experience that celebrates individuality.

Mark Your Calendars for the Grand Opening!

The grand opening of FUTURE TRAIN, complete with the art area in the first car, is scheduled for late September 2025. As the shimmering lights of this future train beckon, it invites everyone to embark on a culinary adventure that promises to be as delightful as it is imaginative.

For those eager to see what the future holds in dining, keep an eye on FUTURE TRAIN's official website and social media.

Store Information

• - Restaurant Name: FUTURE TRAIN KYOTO DINER & CAFE
• - Location: 3-7 Kankiji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Directly connected to Umekojikyoto Nishieki Station
• - Access: One station from JR Kyoto Station (approximately a 20-minute walk)
• - Pre-opening Date: August 20, 2025 (areas 2 and 3)
• - Capacity: 88 seats (planned)
• - Operating Hours: Weekdays 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM; Weekends and Holidays 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
• - Reservation Method: To be announced on the official website
• - Official Website: FUTURE TRAIN
• - Instagram: @futuretrain.kyoto

Join us at FUTURE TRAIN, where every plate serves as a source of inspiration, and each visit can lead you through the many possibilities of what the future could hold.