The external styling of the train was the work of Hiroyuki Wakabayashi, an architect who was also responsible for designing Uji Station on the Keihan Uji Line. The design theme was "Outdated Future", and is the reason for the train's futuristic and retro styling.
The external design of the train is a product of Hiroyuki Wakabayashi's architectural vision, which he applied to both Uji Station on the Keihan Uji Line and this train. The "Outdated Future" theme explains the train's unique combination of futuristic and retro aesthetics.