In a remarkable endeavor spearheaded by the creative genius Kashiwa Sato, Kura Sushi Asia Co., Ltd. has unveiled its first global flagship restaurant outside of Japan, nestled in the vibrant city of Kaohsiung, Taiwan. This extraordinary venture, Kura Sushi Taiwan, pays homage to the brand's Japanese heritage while ushering in a new era of dining and entertainment.
Drawing inspiration from Hiroshige Utagawa's "Famous Views of the Eastern Capital, Amusements While Waiting for the Moon on the Twenty-sixth Night at Takanawa," Kura Sushi Taiwan encapsulates the essence of the Edo Period's "food and entertainment" scene. It seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, creating a captivating space that transcends time.
This flagship store marks a significant architectural achievement. It boasts a sprawling expanse, making it the largest Kura Sushi restaurant globally. The design incorporates elements of Japanese architecture, with a roof adorned in kawara tiles and wooden exterior walls. Upon entry, guests are welcomed by a breathtaking 3-meter-high lantern and a water basin in the shape of Kura Sushi's family crest.
One cannot overlook the captivating "lantern wall" adorning the front facade—a radiant tapestry of 200 luminous pieces that evoke the spirit of a lively festival. Along the side of the building, a menu graphic reminiscent of sumo wrestling rankings tables pays homage to Edo merchant culture and complements the Japanese culinary experience.
Inside, the restaurant weaves a tapestry of experiences. The waiting area exudes charm, adorned with massive ukiyo-e woodblock prints by Hiroshige Utagawa and lanterns. An entertainment area transports guests to the heart of Japanese festival culture, complete with interactive games and stalls. The seating area exudes luxury and comfort, featuring plain wood accents, semi-private spaces created by timberwork and noren curtains, and tatami mat chairs for a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Kura Sushi Taiwan is committed to environmental sustainability and has proudly earned the Green Restaurant Certification from the Agriculture Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government. The restaurant upholds stringent standards across six categories: energy conservation, environmental protection, green and safe food, green initiatives, health and safety management, and sustainable practices.
Furthermore, the restaurant employs eco-friendly building materials, many of which bear the Green Building Material label from the TAIWAN Architecture & Building Center and the Green Mark Program from the Environmental Protection Administration of Taiwan.
At its core, Kura Sushi, founded by President Kunihiko Tanaka, seeks to inspire wonder and happiness in its customers. This mission transcends borders, and Kura Sushi Taiwan serves as a testament to this global vision—a harmonious fusion of delectable cuisine and immersive entertainment, inviting people from all walks of life to experience the joy of a shared meal.
Client: KURA SUSHI ASIA CO. LTD.
Creative Director : Kashiwa Sato
Art Director: Yoshiki Okuse
Architect : Yoshihiro Saito
Lighting Designer: On & Off
Architect: KAN ASSOCIATES
Constructor： LONGHE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Constructor： TAIWAN ZENIYA INTERIOR DESIGN
Photographer: Yasuhiro Takagi
Movie Production: TFC SIGHT PROJECT MANAGEMENT
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