Yuta Takahashi: Merging History and Chocolate in Innovative Packaging

Unveiling a Unique Collaboration Between a Historic Locomotive and a Renowned Chocolatier

The inspiration for this design came from two individuals who create without compromise. The package accurately reproduces the original appearance of the train, capturing its steampunk feel. The chocolate within the package is designed to express the route on which the train runs, adding a playful element to the design. The contrast and fusion of two different designs reflect the collaboration between the locomotive and the chocolatier.

What sets this design apart is its luxurious feel, reminiscent of perfume packaging. The precise train drawings, reproduced with foil stamping, would make any train enthusiast swoon. The deep green of the package symbolizes the trade color of the train and the color of matcha chocolate. The chocolates themselves are decorated with the motif of an actual route map, adding a playful touch to the design.

The design was realized with accuracy, artistry, and entertainment in mind. The trains are drawn based on photographs of the actual trains taken by the designers themselves. The printing uses matte black foil stamping to express the train's calm texture. The lines and logos engraved on the chocolate are designed to have a depth measurable in microns, so that beautiful shadows appear.

The design was created to give the consumer a cultural experience that will improve their life by eating this chocolate. The perfume-inspired packaging takes them to a new frontier, to enjoy the mellow aroma of chocolate made from real cocoa. By consuming it while enjoying the maze, they can visit the route and background of the areas and cultures where the train runs. Each stop and route map is explained on the attached card, enhancing the consumer's creativity and leading to a time of refinement.

The project started in Japan in July 2019 and ended in February 2020. It was announced in September 2020. The elements necessary to raise chocolate to gourmet status without compromising essence were researched. The mechanical and cultural features of the locomotive were extracted to create a design to be enjoyed by children and adults alike. The most difficult task was to accurately reproduce the design applied to chocolate. Many trials were made to engrave an accurate pattern on the chocolate, which crumbles easily, giving it an artistic finish.

Yuta Takahashi's design is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. It is a unique blend of history, art, and chocolate, packaged in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and engaging. The Golden A' Packaging Design Award is a well-deserved recognition of this outstanding design.