Future Train Diner

Dream of traveling to the future? Well, you now can — kind of — at this pretty and pink train-themed diner in Kyoto.

What’s Future Train Diner?

From the colorful and creative mind of Sebastian Masuda, the brain behind the iconic Kawaii Monster Cafe in Harajuku (which will be revived soon), this diner is the first of its kind in Japan — being on an abandoned railway track.

Contrasting its location with ultramodernity, the diner blends food, art, and entertainment. A decommissioned Thunderbird Express Train (681 series) serves as the backdrop, now transformed into the Future Bird.

Don’t worry if you aren’t a train otaku, the diner is also perfect for those who love kawaii culture.

Food

Similar to any other diner, you can expect a good variety of satisfying and familiar meals. Notably, among the colorful chaos, there is an emphasis on local ingredients and culture.

Recommended items on the menu include the Future Ekiben Box, the Kawaii Five-Story Pagoda Parfait, and Melty Souffle Pancakes. If you want something less sugary, you can also enjoy a less-colorful lunch set with options like pasta, hamburg steak, and a mixed grill.

The dinner menu differs slightly, with Oh Banzai Tapas, as well as more choices on savory dishes like Fish & Chips and a Pinky Omelet Rice Plate.

Given its creative concept, you can expect to pay a bit more to dine here. Most dishes start around ¥2,000, and drinks around ¥600.

Seating

The entrance to the restaurant is the original front carriage of the limited express Thunderbird. Inside, the seating is just as exciting as the food — with five different seating areas to choose from, you can customize your “travel” experience. No matter where you sit, you’ll be greeted by neon-pink seats and lights though.

Note: there is also an official gift shop inside the restaurant.

What to know before you visit Future Train Diner

Sticking to its futuristic theme, this diner is completely cashless.

Do you need reservations for Future Train Diner?

Future Train Diner offers a variety of dining experiences, some of which do require reservations in advance.

The FUTURE IMAGINATION Course offers an elegant seven-course meal aboard the immersive Car No.1 FUTURE BIRD. As you dine, you’ll travel through time and space. This experience costs ¥11,000 per person.

If you’re happy to miss out on the train experience, we don’t know why though, there is also the Future Dinner Course option for a cheaper ¥6,000. You can also gather a group together and book the Future Party Course, which starts at ¥4,500 per person.

It is also possible to just reserve a seat (known as a “Ride Pass”). When booking, you’ll be asked which section of the restaurant you would like to sit in. Although you don’t pay at the time of booking, there is a ¥700 admission fee for adults and ¥300 for children.

Finally, from April to October, you can also reserve a spot on the open-air terrace and enjoy some glittery drinks and food among the stars.

by Jane Pipkin