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©1976, 2019 SANRIO CO., LTD.　APPROVAL NO. G594090
JR-WEST and SANRIO have joined forces for a special collaboration! The "Hello Kitty Shinkansen" started operating in June 2018. The train runs on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, which connects Hakata with Shin-Osaka. The "Hello Kitty Shinkansen Cafe" opened in the same month. The establishment is located inside the Shinkansen Hakata Station and is somewhat different from other "Hello Kitty Cafes" that you might find in other parts of the country. The Hakata branch has a unique interior, makes use of specially designed tableware, and serves original food!

©1976, 2019 SANRIO CO., LTD.　APPROVAL NO. G594090
The cafe is located inside the Hakata Station Shinkansen ticket gates. That means that you will need to be holding a valid train ticket to access the premises. Alternatively, you could purchase an *admission ticket if you are planning to visit the establishment, but do not want to travel anywhere. After all, some people might be visiting the station just so that they can check-out the cafe! (* Admission ticket: Gives people who do not intend to take a train the right to pass through the barriers. The ticket, which is often used by people who are picking up or seeing off a train passenger, is valid for two hours once it has been issued.)

©1976, 2019 SANRIO CO., LTD.　APPROVAL NO. G594090
The cafe has 80 seats. There is also a smoking section located at the back of the premises. It's ideal for anyone looking for somewhere to relax while they wait for their train to arrive.

©1976, 2019 SANRIO CO., LTD.　APPROVAL NO. G594090
©1976, 2019 SANRIO CO., LTD.　APPROVAL NO. G594090
One of the walls features a range of original Hello Kitty-themed illustrations. The designs are inspired by the prefectures that the train passes through. The service runs from Osaka to Fukuoka, so visitors will notice all kinds of famous products and landmarks depicted in the artwork. Lots of tourists have been taking photos in front of these awesome images!