“Ekiben” is also called “Ekiben” in Japanese. “Ekiben” refers to boxed lunches sold at the stations where express trains and Shinkansen stop. Unlike the boxed lunches sold at convenience stores, “Ekiben” typically feature local specialties or products from nearby regions.
As mentioned earlier, “Ekiben” are usually sold at stations where express trains and Shinkansen stop, and they are often consumed while traveling on the train. Eating them gives Japanese people a sense of “being on a journey.”
In Japan, it is generally considered good manners not to eat or drink on trains. Eating and drinking on regular trains are considered impolite.
However, on long-distance trains such as express trains and Shinkansen, eating and drinking are allowed. However, if the food has a strong smell (for example, McDonald’s or KFC), it’s generally acceptable for one or two people, but consideration is needed if there are many people onboard. This is a slightly tricky aspect of Japanese etiquette.
Returning to the topic of “Ekiben,” rest assured that you can eat them onboard any train! Additionally, you can also enjoy alcohol such as beer onboard along with your “Ekiben”!
The author purchased a “sea bream rice boxed lunch” at Atami Station and enjoyed it onboard the Shinkansen on their way to Kobe. Although they wanted to drink beer, they opted for tea as they wanted to save the beer for the night in Kobe.
Travelers often find themselves using Shinkansen and express trains for transportation during their trips. At such times, I highly recommend trying “Ekiben” at least once! They are available at almost all stations where Shinkansen and express trains stop throughout Japan!
You can easily enjoy local meals that are delicious! Prices typically range from 1000 to 2000 yen. While more expensive than convenience store boxed lunches, they are an essential part of the experience of train travel in Japan!