Kura Sushi's Next-Gen Model: A Sustainable Revolution in Conveyor-Belt Dining

In the bustling city of Osaka, Japan, a new culinary landmark is set to open its doors on April 13, 2025. The Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store, located in the Future Life Zone of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, promises to be more than just a restaurant—it's a testament to the future of sustainable dining. With a strong focus on environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology, this next-generation restaurant model is poised to redefine the conveyor-belt sushi experience.

The Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store is not just the largest Kura Sushi restaurant ever built; it's a beacon of innovation. Boasting 338 seats and a revolving belt that stretches about 135 meters, the store is designed to offer an unparalleled dining experience. The exterior, adorned with namako walls and a striking image of tuna nigiri, is both visually appealing and functional, with an "Antibacterial Sushi Cover Mr. Freshness" that protects the sushi from airborne contaminants.



But the true magic of this restaurant lies in its commitment to sustainability. The exterior walls are made from "plaster without artificial substances," crafted from 336,000 discarded seashells and seaweed-based glue. This eco-friendly material not only reduces waste but also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

The store's interior is equally impressive, featuring a luxurious, modern Japanese design with wood-grained tables and tatami-style seating surfaces. The bold graphic depiction of a giant plate on the ceiling adds a touch of whimsy, while the use of recycled materials throughout the restaurant underscores its commitment to sustainability. For instance, the pictograms at the cash register counters and restrooms are made from discarded plastic bottle caps and polyethylene tanks, reducing CO2 emissions by about one-third compared to incineration. Additionally, recycled fishing equipment, such as ropes, buoys, and baskets, is used for seat numbers and logo signs, supporting SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

The Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store also introduces environmentally friendly "Bikkura Pon®" capsules and take-out containers. These capsules, made from starch and pulp using PIM (Pulp Injection Molding) technology, are recyclable and decompose in the soil in about six months. The take-out containers, made from coconut palm frond residues, reduce CO2 emissions during incineration and methane gas emissions from decomposition, further aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action).

But sustainability is just one aspect of this next-generation restaurant model. The store is also equipped with advanced AI and ICT technologies that enhance customer convenience and comfort. These technologies improve hygiene and quality control, ensuring that the sushi served is of the highest quality. The store's state-of-the-art design combines the latest technology with the traditional conveyor-belt sushi experience, offering a seamless and efficient dining experience.

The menu at the Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store is equally impressive, featuring a sustainable menu that utilizes low-use fish, such as nizadai, as part of its efforts to promote sustainable fishing. The restaurant also offers a 70-course menu that recreates dishes representative of 70 countries and regions, catering to a wide range of customer preferences.

In terms of long-term benefits for investors, the integration of AI and ICT technologies in the Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store can lead to significant operational efficiencies. The use of AI and ICT technologies allows for better management of inventory, reducing waste and ensuring that fresh ingredients are always available. This not only saves costs but also ensures that customers always have access to high-quality sushi. Additionally, the use of AI and ICT technologies can help in predicting customer demand, allowing the store to adjust its operations accordingly and avoid overstocking or understocking of ingredients.

Furthermore, the integration of AI and ICT technologies can lead to improved customer satisfaction, which is crucial for the long-term success of any business. By providing a seamless and enjoyable dining experience, the store can attract and retain customers, leading to increased revenue and profitability. The use of AI and ICT technologies also allows for personalized customer experiences, where customers can receive recommendations based on their preferences and past orders. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also encourages repeat visits and word-of-mouth referrals.

The Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store is more than just a restaurant—it's a symbol of the future of sustainable dining. With its commitment to environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology, this next-generation restaurant model is poised to redefine the conveyor-belt sushi experience. As investors increasingly look for companies that prioritize sustainability and align with the SDGs, Kura Sushi's innovative approach to dining is sure to attract attention and investment.



In conclusion, the Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store is a testament to the future of sustainable dining. With its commitment to environmental responsibility, cutting-edge technology, and a diverse menu, this next-generation restaurant model is poised to redefine the conveyor-belt sushi experience. As investors increasingly look for companies that prioritize sustainability and align with the SDGs, Kura Sushi's innovative approach to dining is sure to attract attention and investment. The Kura Sushi Osaka Kansai Expo Store is not just a restaurant—it's a symbol of the future of sustainable dining.