Did you know conveyor belt sushi—kaitenzushi—was popularized after the Osaka Expo in 1970? Fast forward 50 years, and Japan’s favorite dining innovation is making history again. This time, Kura Sushi, one of Japan’s leading kaitenzushi chains, is gearing up for the Official Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 by showcasing a menu that features 70 dishes representing countries and regions participating in the event. It’s a global dining experience, served one plate at a time.

Let’s dive into how Kura Sushi is taking food innovation (and a sprinkle of nostalgia) to the next level with its “Hands-Hands Project.”

Hands-Hands Project: A Tasteful Tribute to Unity

The “Hands-Hands Project” isn’t just a clever name; it’s Kura Sushi’s mission to unite the world through food. At the heart of this project is the Expo-inspired menu—70 dishes that bring the authentic flavors of the world to Japan. From Ireland’s hearty boxty to Thailand’s smoky gai yang, these dishes are developed with input from ambassadors and cultural representatives to ensure they’re as close to the real deal as possible.

Here’s where it gets clever: the dishes aren’t just randomly served. They’re presented in Kura Sushi’s iconic antibacterial covers, specially redesigned for the Expo. Dubbed “Mr. Fresh,” these covers now feature red and blue handshakes—symbolizing collaboration. Imagine sushi and global cuisine flowing side by side on a 135-meter-long conveyor belt, making every meal feel like a world tour.

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Building Excitement Nationwide

If you can’t make it to Osaka for the Expo, no worries—Kura Sushi has your back. Starting February 7, 2025, select dishes from the global menu will roll out across 550 Kura Sushi locations nationwide. Here’s the catch (and the fun): each location will feature just one dish from the menu. So, if you’re determined to try all 70, it might just be the perfect excuse for a cross-country sushi pilgrimage.

And it doesn’t stop there. Kura Sushi is also planning interactive campaigns, from collectible points to social media contests, designed to deepen public engagement with the Expo and, of course, Kura Sushi’s menu.

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Sustainability Served Fresh

Kura Sushi’s efforts go beyond plates and belts. For their Expo venue, they’re using eco-conscious materials like repurposed clam shells for the building’s walls. This sustainable design aligns perfectly with the Expo’s theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives” and makes Kura Sushi more than just a dining experience—it’s part of the broader movement toward sustainability.

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Why It Matters

Sure, it’s fun to eat sushi, but Kura Sushi’s efforts reflect something deeper. This project celebrates diversity and connection, which feels more important than ever. Whether it’s through the creative use of conveyor belts or showcasing dishes from 70 countries, Kura Sushi isn’t just about food—it’s about stories, traditions, and the joy of sharing them with others.

So, next time you see a conveyor belt of sushi, think about how far those plates have traveled—not just around the restaurant, but across the globe.

Visit the official website for more information and locations

• Dining in Japan: Kura Sushi Flagship Store Osaka Kansai Expo
• More Architecture Topics: Diversity in Japanese Architecture
• Upcoming Events in Japan: The Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025