Preedee TeoStarting in January, a sightseeing train connecting Tokyo and Saitama Prefecture will offer passengers a unique culinary experience: a taste of Singaporean cuisine in Japan. The collaboration between Seibu Railway and the Singapore Tourism Board aims to promote rural Japan to visitors while attracting more Japanese travellers to Singapore.
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Singaporean cuisine awaits Seibu Railway passengers
Boosting Japanese tourism to Singapore
Image credit: Xavier L. | Unsplash
Fewer Japanese tourists have been visiting Singapore since the pandemic. As such, the Singapore Tourism Board is eager to attract more Japanese visitors through this innovative dining experience. The weak Japanese yen has also contributed to the slower outbound travel from Japan.
Despite the challenges, statistics show an 80% increase in Japanese visitors between January and July of this year compared to the same period last year. The Singapore Tourism Board regional director for North Asia, emphasised that both organisations have similar goals and target the same kind of customers.
A unique sightseeing experience with Seibu Railway
Image credit: Chanwei | Unsplash
Seibu Railway serves 1.6 million passengers every day. Moreover, it has a history of offering fine dining experiences on its trains. Seibu Railway previously launched the “52 Seats of Happiness” dining train in 2016 which served French, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. However, its reception from international tourists was poor.
The collaboration with Singapore Tourism Board sets new goals for introducing international tourists to lesser-known destinations in Japan, such as Chichibu. This area, located over an hour from Tokyo, offers a more relaxed atmosphere and a variety of festivals.
Michelin-starred chef creates Singaporean fusion menu
Michelin-starred chef Tatsuya Noda, who recently visited Singapore, will be crafting the menu for the Singaporean fusion cuisine served on the train. The menu will encapsulate Noda’s personal inspiration and experiences from his visit, providing an authentic culinary experience for the passengers.
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All in all, passengers can look forward to hopping onto this sightseeing train and enjoying Singaporean cuisine while taking in the beautiful scenery of Japan! The Singaporean-themed menu will provide a unique and memorable culinary experience for travellers.
Featured image credit: Su San Lee | Unsplash
Facebook featured image credit: (L-R) Chanwei | Unsplash; Su San Lee | Unsplash
