Seibu Railway has begun development of a new restaurant train, scheduled to enter service in March 2028.
The onboard restaurant will be produced and operated in collaboration with Balnibarbi Co., Ltd., a company known for its diverse dining concepts across Japan. Together, the two partners will create a new kind of rail dining experience that combines architecture, gastronomy, and hospitality.
Overview of the New Restaurant Train
The new train will be newly built based on Seibu’s limited express “Laview” model and designed by world-renowned architect Kazuyo Sejima.
Her design concept emphasizes light, space, and serenity, offering passengers a refined atmosphere where they can enjoy an exceptional dining experience on the move.
The train will also feature one of Japan’s largest onboard kitchen cars, capable of serving freshly prepared hot meals to approximately 70 passengers.
Guests can enjoy unforgettable moments with loved ones through a harmonious blend of cuisine, design, and service.
An Evolution Beyond “52 Seats of Happiness”
Since 2016, Seibu Railway’s “52 Seats of Happiness” train has provided more than 80,000 passengers with memorable culinary journeys.
Building on that success, the new train will take this concept even further, offering a more refined and emotionally resonant “traveling dining experience” under the theme of “cherishing precious moments with loved ones.”
Partnership with Balnibarbi
Balnibarbi, which operates about 100 restaurants nationwide under the philosophy of “Revitalizing Japan through food,” is recognized for its regional revitalization initiatives such as the “Frogs FARM ATMOSPHERE” project on Awaji Island.
Through this collaboration, the new restaurant train will showcase the nature, cuisine, and culture along Seibu’s railway lines—transforming local stories into unique culinary journeys.
Service Launch
Scheduled Start of Operation: March 2028
Details on routes, timetables, and onboard menus will be announced as they are finalized.
