The One about an udon shop becomes the savior?! [Osaka Mizuma Railway’s 100-year history]

The Mizuma Railway, connecting Kaizuka Station in Osaka to Mizuma Kannon Station, is a community-oriented local railway with a total length of approximately 5.5 kilometers and 10 stations, all within 15 minutes.

It opened in 1925 to transport pilgrims to Mizuma Temple, and at its peak, it was used by approximately 4 million people annually. However, it fell into a financial crisis due to failed diversification efforts. In 2006, the restaurant chain “Gourmet Kineya” became the parent company and reconstruction began.

Under the leadership of President Fujimoto, a railway management professional, the company secured profits through cost reductions such as timetable revisions and innovative projects such as “dagashi trains,” DJ trains, headmark advertisements, and driving experiences.

These initiatives also became popular on social media, and the company was able to eliminate its debt. Having celebrated its 100th anniversary, it will continue to walk together with the community towards the next 100 years.