Kura Sushi to Open Global Flagship Store in Ginza with Edo-Inspired 'Kura Koedo' Space

Kura Sushi Inc., a major conveyor-belt sushi chain, will open its sixth global flagship store in Japan on April 25, 2024, inside Marronnier Gate Ginza 2 in Tokyo's well-known Ginza district. The store, called 'Kura Sushi Global Flagship Store Ginza,' was designed by top Japanese creative director Kashiwa Sato and will feature a unique 'Kura Koedo' space inspired by the ukiyo-e woodblock prints of Utagawa Hiroshige, depicting scenes from the Edo period (1603-1868).

The Kura Koedo space will have three food stalls where staff will prepare and serve freshly made sushi, tempura, and skewered rice dumplings in front of customers, making Kura Sushi the first major conveyor-belt sushi chain to offer this immersive live performance experience. "The 'Kura Koedo' space will recreate the ambience of Edo-period food stalls, offering guests a selection of freshly prepared sushi, tempura, and skewered rice dumplings," Kura Sushi said in a statement.

The Ginza store will feature Kura Sushi's longest-ever conveyor belt, allowing customers to fully enjoy the fun of revolving sushi. The interior will showcase a modern Japanese design with ukiyo-e images, paper lanterns, plain wood tables and columns, and traditional tatami-mat seating.

The opening of this flagship store in the high-end Ginza dining district is strategically timed to coincide with the record-breaking number of foreign tourists visiting Japan in 2024. Ginza attracts food enthusiasts from around the world, and Kura Sushi aims to deliver unforgettable culinary experiences and showcase the evolving fun of conveyor-belt sushi to both domestic and international customers.

Why this matters: The opening of Kura Sushi's global flagship store in Ginza represents a significant milestone for the company as it seeks to expand its presence and appeal to a wider international audience. By combining traditional Japanese elements with innovative dining experiences, Kura Sushi is positioning itself at the forefront of the evolving conveyor-belt sushi industry.

Kura Sushi's Ginza flagship store is set to become a must-visit destination for sushi lovers and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of Edo-period charm and modern culinary delights. With its longest conveyor belt and immersive 'Kura Koedo' space, the store aims to deliver an unforgettable dining experience that showcases the best of Japanese cuisine and culture.

Key Takeaways

• Kura Sushi to open 6th global flagship store in Ginza, Tokyo on April 25, 2024.
• Store designed by top Japanese creative director, featuring 'Kura Koedo' space with live food prep.
• Longest conveyor belt, modern Japanese design with traditional elements, targeting tourists.
• Flagship store opening coincides with record-breaking foreign tourist arrivals in Japan in 2024.
• Kura Sushi aims to expand international presence and showcase evolving conveyor-belt sushi experience.