Imagine sitting by the window of a speeding Shinkansen, watching Japan’s breathtaking landscapes pass by as you open a beautifully crafted ekiben (駅弁)—a delicious bento meal designed specifically for train travelers. Whether you’re heading to Hokkaido, Kyoto, or Tokyo, ekiben offers a unique way to experience Japan’s regional flavors without leaving your seat.
From succulent sukiyaki beef bentos to fresh seafood delights and even healthy, vegetable-packed meals, Japan’s train stations are filled with an incredible variety of ekiben. Each one is carefully prepared to highlight local specialties, making it a must-try experience for food lovers and travelers alike.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best ekiben bento in Japan, where to buy them, and how to make the most of this beloved Japanese tradition. Whether you’re planning your next trip to Japan or simply curious about authentic Japanese cuisine, this article will take you on a delicious journey through Japan’s train station food culture.
🛤️ Ready to find the perfect ekiben for your trip? Let’s dive in! 🍱✨
Introduction to Ekiben Japanese Culture
What is Ekiben? A Must-Try Japanese Travel Experience
If you travel by train in Japan, one thing you shouldn’t miss is ekiben (駅弁). Ekiben is a Japanese bento box meal sold at train stations and inside trains, specially designed for travelers. The word “ekiben” is a combination of “eki” (駅, station) and “ben” (弁, short for bento), meaning a bento meal prepared for train journeys.
Ekiben has a long history, dating back to the late 19th century (Meiji era). The first recorded ekiben was sold at Utsunomiya Station in 1885, featuring two rice balls with pickled radish. Since then, ekiben has evolved into a culinary tradition, offering a variety of regional specialties that allow travelers to taste the local flavors of different prefectures without leaving their train seats.
Each ekiben is carefully crafted, using high-quality ingredients that represent the local culture and specialties. Whether it’s fresh seafood from Hokkaido, premium beef from Kobe, or traditional Kyoto-style cuisine, every ekiben tells a story of the region where it was made.
Why Ekiben Bento is Popular Among Travelers
Ekiben is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that reflects Japan’s deep appreciation for food and travel. Here’s why ekiben bento is so beloved among travelers:
- Regional Specialties in a Box
- Each ekiben showcases local ingredients and cooking styles unique to its region. For example, Hokkaido’s “Salmon Festival Bento” (鮭まつり弁当) highlights the region’s fresh seafood, while Kobe’s bento may feature its famous Wagyu beef.
- Perfect for Train Travel
- Unlike fast food, ekiben is designed to be eaten conveniently while traveling. The packaging is well thought out, making it easy to open and eat without any mess. Some ekiben even come in self-heating containers, allowing travelers to enjoy a warm meal on the go.
- Aesthetic & High-Quality Presentation
- Japanese bento culture places a strong emphasis on visual appeal, and ekiben is no exception. Each meal is beautifully arranged, often featuring colorful vegetables, neatly placed sushi, or perfectly cooked meat and rice.
- A Memorable Souvenir
- Some ekiben boxes are so beautifully designed that travelers keep them as souvenirs. For instance, certain bento boxes are made from wood or ceramic, featuring traditional Japanese motifs or famous landmarks.
- Limited-Edition & Seasonal Varieties
- Many ekiben are only available at specific times of the year, such as cherry blossom-themed bentos in spring or autumn-inspired flavors featuring chestnuts and mushrooms. This makes each trip unique, as travelers can discover new ekiben flavors every time they visit Japan.
Whether you’re taking the Shinkansen (bullet train), a scenic local train, or even just visiting a train station, grabbing an ekiben is a must-do experience in Japan. In the next section, we’ll introduce some of the best ekiben bento you should try on your journey! 🚆🍱
Best Ekiben Bento to Try in Japan
Ekiben (駅弁) is an essential part of train travel in Japan, offering a delicious and convenient way to experience regional flavors from across the country. Here are eight must-try ekiben bento, each with its own unique taste and cultural significance.
かに飯とすき焼き弁当 (淡路屋) | Crab & Sukiyaki Bento from Awajiya
This luxurious ekiben from Awajiya (淡路屋) offers the best of both worlds: succulent crab rice and savory sukiyaki beef. The crab meat is lightly seasoned to enhance its natural sweetness, while the sukiyaki beef is simmered in a rich, umami-packed sauce. This combination makes it a perfect choice for travelers who want to indulge in two Japanese delicacies in one meal.
📍 Where to buy: Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto train stations.
浅草今半 | Asakusa Imahan Bento: Premium Sukiyaki Delicacy
One of the most famous Japanese beef brands, Asakusa Imahan (浅草今半), brings its high-quality sukiyaki (thinly sliced beef simmered in a sweet-savory sauce) to the world of ekiben. This bento is packed with tender wagyu beef, slowly cooked with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, giving it a rich umami flavor. Paired with steamed rice and traditional Japanese side dishes, this ekiben is perfect for those looking for an authentic luxurious dining experience on the go.
📍 Where to buy: Major train stations in Tokyo, including Tokyo Station and Ueno Station.
きよ仲松花堂弁当 | Kiyonaka Shokado Bento: Traditional Elegance
The Shokado Bento (松花堂弁当) is a beautifully arranged kaiseki-style meal in a box, featuring a variety of small, seasonal dishes. The Kiyonaka Shokado Bento offers an elegant combination of grilled fish, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), simmered vegetables, rice, and pickles, all carefully arranged to reflect traditional Japanese aesthetics.
📍 Where to buy: Kyoto and Osaka stations.
鮭まつり弁当 (佐藤水産) | Salmon Festival Bento: Hokkaido’s Seafood Special
Hokkaido is famous for its fresh seafood, and the Salmon Festival Bento (鮭まつり弁当) from Sato Suisan (佐藤水産) is a true celebration of this. It features multiple types of salmon prepared in different ways—grilled, marinated, and even salmon roe (ikura)—served over rice. This ekiben is a must-try for seafood lovers looking to savor the flavors of northern Japan.
📍 Where to buy: Train stations in Hokkaido, such as Sapporo Station and New Chitose Airport.
ひまつぶし巻き | Himatsubushi Maki: A Unique On-the-Go Delight
Unlike traditional ekiben, this one is a rolled sushi-style bento, making it perfect for eating on the go. The name “Himatsubushi” (ひまつぶし) means “killing time,” suggesting that this bento is a fun and convenient snack during train rides. It includes fresh ingredients wrapped in sushi rice and seaweed, making it both delicious and mess-free.
📍 Where to buy: Available at select train stations in Nagoya and central Japan.
わっぱ霧島黒豚の生姜焼き | Wappa Kirishima Black Pork Ginger Bento
This bento highlights Kagoshima’s famous black pork (Kirishima Kurobuta), known for its rich, tender texture and deep umami flavor. The pork is marinated in ginger sauce (shogayaki), giving it a fragrant and slightly sweet taste. Served in a traditional wooden wappa box, this ekiben combines authentic Japanese aesthetics with gourmet flavors.
📍 Where to buy: Major train stations in Kyushu, especially in Kagoshima.
30品目バランス弁当 | 30-Ingredient Balanced Bento: Healthy & Nutritious
For health-conscious travelers, the 30-Ingredient Balanced Bento (30品目バランス弁当) is an ideal choice. Packed with 30 different ingredients, including grains, vegetables, fish, and tofu, this bento is designed to provide a nutritionally balanced meal while maintaining delicious flavors. This is a great ekiben for those looking to enjoy Japanese cuisine while keeping their diet in check.
📍 Where to buy: Tokyo Station and major train hubs across Japan.
東海道新幹線弁当 | Tokaido Shinkansen Bento: Travel with Flavor
This ekiben is specifically designed for travelers on the Tokaido Shinkansen, one of Japan’s busiest bullet train routes connecting Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. The bento features a mix of regional delicacies from each stop along the route, such as grilled eel from Shizuoka, miso-flavored pork from Nagoya, and Kyoto-style pickles. This makes it a great option for those who want to taste Japan’s diverse cuisine in one meal.
📍 Where to buy: Tokyo Station, Nagoya Station, Kyoto Station, and Shin-Osaka Station.
Final Thoughts: Which Ekiben Will You Try?
From premium beef sukiyaki to regional seafood specialties, ekiben offers travelers a unique taste of Japan’s diverse culinary culture. Whether you’re riding the Shinkansen, exploring different prefectures, or simply looking for a delicious meal, trying an ekiben is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Which of these ekiben bento would you like to try on your next trip to Japan? 🚆🍱 Let us know in the comments!
Where to Buy the Best Ekiben in Japan
If you’re planning to experience Japan’s ekiben culture, you might be wondering where to find the best ekiben bento. Fortunately, Japan’s major train stations are filled with dedicated ekiben shops offering a wide variety of regional specialties. In addition, some ekiben are available in limited editions, featuring seasonal ingredients or special packaging. Below, we’ll guide you to the best places to buy ekiben and introduce some exciting new and limited-time options.
📍 Ekiben Shops at Major Train Stations
One of the easiest ways to find delicious ekiben is by visiting ekiben shops located inside major train stations. Here are some of the best places to buy ekiben across Japan:
1️⃣ Tokyo Station – “Ekiben Paradise”
Tokyo Station is a hub for Shinkansen (bullet trains) and offers one of the largest selections of ekiben in Japan. The best place to explore is “Ekibenya Matsuri” (駅弁屋 祭), an ekiben specialty store with over 200 types of ekiben from all across Japan. Whether you’re craving wagyu beef, seafood, or vegetarian options, you’ll find something perfect for your journey.
🛒 Must-Try Ekiben in Tokyo Station:
- 浅草今半 (Asakusa Imahan Bento) – Premium sukiyaki beef bento
- 東海道新幹線弁当 (Tokaido Shinkansen Bento) – Featuring flavors from different regions along the Shinkansen route
📍 Location: Inside the Yaesu North Exit area of Tokyo Station
2️⃣ Kyoto Station – Taste the Essence of Traditional Japan
Kyoto Station offers ekiben that showcase the city’s rich culinary history, including kaiseki-style bentos and meals featuring Kyoto’s famous pickled vegetables.
🛒 Must-Try Ekiben in Kyoto Station:
- きよ仲松花堂弁当 (Kiyonaka Shokado Bento) – A beautifully arranged traditional bento
- 30品目バランス弁当 (30-Ingredient Balanced Bento) – A nutritious and well-balanced meal
📍 Location: Various ekiben shops inside Kyoto Station, including “Kyo-Bento”
3️⃣ Shin-Osaka Station – Home of Osaka’s Famous Flavors
Osaka is known for its bold flavors and street food culture, and the ekiben at Shin-Osaka Station reflect this. Here, you can find bentos featuring takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and Osaka-style beef dishes.
🛒 Must-Try Ekiben in Shin-Osaka Station:
- わっぱ霧島黒豚の生姜焼き (Wappa Kirishima Black Pork Ginger Bento) – Featuring Kagoshima’s famous black pork
- かに飯とすき焼き弁当 (Crab & Sukiyaki Bento from Awajiya) – A luxurious combination of two Japanese delicacies
📍 Location: Inside the Shinkansen concourse and surrounding shopping areas
4️⃣ Sapporo Station – A Seafood Lover’s Dream
Hokkaido is famous for its fresh seafood, and Sapporo Station is the best place to find ekiben filled with salmon, crab, and sea urchin.
🛒 Must-Try Ekiben in Sapporo Station:
- 鮭まつり弁当 (Salmon Festival Bento) – Featuring different types of salmon, including grilled and marinated styles
📍 Location: Inside the station’s ekiben shops and at New Chitose Airport
🆕 New & Limited Edition Ekiben Options
Japan’s ekiben culture is constantly evolving, with new and seasonal varieties being introduced throughout the year. Here are some special ekiben you might be lucky enough to find during your travels:
🌸 Spring: Sakura-Themed Ekiben
During cherry blossom season (March–April), many ekiben feature sakura-themed ingredients, such as sakura-flavored rice, pink-colored fish cakes, and cherry blossom-shaped vegetables. These bentos are limited-time releases, making them a great souvenir during hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
🔹 Example: “Sakura Ekiben” from Tokyo Station – Featuring sakura rice and spring vegetables
🎆 Summer: Seafood Specials & Cold Noodles
During Japan’s hot summer months (June–August), some ekiben include cold soba noodles or refreshing seafood dishes to help beat the heat.
🔹 Example: “Hokkaido Summer Bento” – Featuring grilled scallops, sea urchin, and fresh vegetables
🍁 Autumn: Chestnut & Mushroom Ekiben
Autumn is the season of chestnuts, mushrooms, and grilled fish, and many ekiben highlight these flavors. Some also feature seasonal mountain vegetables.
🔹 Example: “Autumn Harvest Bento” from Kyoto Station – Made with roasted chestnuts, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes
❄️ Winter: Crab & Hot-Style Ekiben
Winter is the best time for crab dishes, and many regions in Japan release crab-focused ekiben. Some bento even come in self-heating containers, allowing you to enjoy a warm meal inside the train.
🔹 Example: “Kanimeshi Bento” from Hokuriku – Featuring snow crab and miso-seasoned rice
📍 Where to Find Limited Edition Ekiben:
- Tokyo Station (Ekibenya Matsuri)
- Kyoto Station (Kyo-Bento)
- Major department stores near train stations
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Try Your First Ekiben?
Whether you’re traveling on the Shinkansen, local trains, or even domestic flights, Japan offers a wide variety of delicious and unique ekiben. From Tokyo’s gourmet beef bentos to Sapporo’s fresh seafood delights, each bento box provides a taste of regional specialties and seasonal flavors.
If you’re planning your next trip to Japan, be sure to stop by a major train station ekiben shop and pick up a delicious bento to enjoy during your journey! 🚆🍱
👉 Which ekiben are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments!
📦 Buy Ekiben Online: Available on Amazon
If you can’t travel to Japan but still want to experience authentic ekiben flavors, you’re in luck! Some ekiben can be purchased online via Amazon Japan, allowing you to enjoy these delicious meals from the comfort of your home.
Here are some ekiben options available on Amazon Japan:
1️⃣ 全国旅気分 6食セット (Nationwide Travel Bento Set)
A special set that features six different types of ekiben from various regions in Japan. Perfect for those who want to sample multiple flavors and experience Japan’s railway food culture at home!
🛒 Check it on Amazon
2️⃣ 函館駅弁 いかめし (Hakodate Station Squid Rice Bento)
A famous Hokkaido ekiben featuring rice-stuffed squid, cooked in a rich soy-based sauce. This bento is one of Japan’s most well-known regional train meals.
🛒 Check it on Amazon
3️⃣ いかめし イカ飯 (Squid Rice 3-Pack)
Another variation of Hakodate’s iconic squid bento, offering a convenient three-pack for multiple meals. Ideal for seafood lovers!
🛒 Check it on Amazon
📢 Final Thoughts: Experience Ekiben Anytime, Anywhere!
While nothing beats the experience of eating ekiben on a scenic train ride, these Amazon Japan options offer a great alternative for those outside Japan or anyone who wants to relive their ekiben memories.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we still recommend buying ekiben fresh from train stations, but if you’re looking for a taste of Japan at home, these Amazon selections are a convenient way to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors!
👉 Which ekiben would you like to try? Let us know in the comments! 🚆🍱
Tips for Enjoying Ekiben Bento
Ekiben is more than just a meal—it’s a unique travel experience that lets you savor the flavors of different regions while riding Japan’s famous trains. To make the most of your ekiben experience, here are some useful tips on how to choose the best ekiben and what drinks to pair with your meal.
🍱 How to Choose the Best Ekiben for Your Trip
With hundreds of different ekiben available across Japan, picking the perfect one can be overwhelming. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing your ekiben:
1️⃣ Consider Your Destination & Regional Specialties
One of the best ways to choose an ekiben is by looking for local specialties from the region you’re traveling through. Each area in Japan has its own unique flavors:
- Hokkaido: Seafood-based bentos like Salmon Festival Bento or Squid Rice Bento
- Tokyo: High-end wagyu beef options like Asakusa Imahan Sukiyaki Bento
- Kyoto: Traditional Japanese cuisine such as Shokado Bento with seasonal vegetables
- Osaka: Hearty flavors like Okonomiyaki or Takoyaki Bento
🛤️ Tip: If you’re taking a Shinkansen (bullet train), look for bentos designed for long journeys, such as the Tokaido Shinkansen Bento, which features flavors from multiple regions.
2️⃣ Choose a Bento That Matches Your Appetite
Ekiben come in various portion sizes. If you’re hungry, go for a rice-heavy or meat-based bento, like the Kirishima Black Pork Ginger Bento. If you prefer lighter meals, a vegetable-focused or sushi-style ekiben might be a better choice.
🛤️ Tip: If you’re on a long journey, consider buying two smaller ekiben to enjoy a variety of flavors.
3️⃣ Look for Limited-Edition & Seasonal Ekiben
Many train stations offer seasonal ekiben that are only available for a short time. Examples include:
- Spring (March–April): Sakura-themed bentos with cherry blossom rice
- Summer (June–August): Cold noodle ekiben to beat the heat
- Autumn (September–November): Chestnut, mushroom, and grilled fish bentos
- Winter (December–February): Self-heating ekiben featuring hot sukiyaki or crab rice
🛤️ Tip: Check the ekiben corner at major train stations for newly released or special edition bentos!
4️⃣ Choose Ekiben That Are Easy to Eat on a Train
If you’re traveling on a crowded train, you might want an ekiben that’s easy to eat with one hand, such as:
- Himatsubushi Maki (Rolled Sushi Ekiben)
- Mini Onigiri (Rice Ball) Sets
For a more relaxing journey on a Shinkansen or limited express train, you can enjoy a full meal-style ekiben like the Crab & Sukiyaki Bento.
🥤 Pairing Drinks with Your Ekiben
Pairing the right drink with your ekiben can enhance the flavors of your meal. Here are some great drink options to try:
🍵 1️⃣ Green Tea (Ocha / お茶) – Classic & Refreshing
Green tea is a traditional and healthy choice that complements any type of ekiben. It helps cleanse the palate and brings out the umami flavors of Japanese cuisine.
🛤️ Best with: Seafood, sushi, and light-flavored bentos
🍶 2️⃣ Sake (Japanese Rice Wine) – For a Gourmet Experience
If you want to elevate your ekiben experience, try pairing it with a small bottle of sake, available at many train stations.
🛤️ Best with: Wagyu beef bento, sukiyaki, and grilled fish bentos
🥤 3️⃣ Soft Drinks – Easy & Refreshing Choices
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, Japan has a wide variety of unique soft drinks:
- Oolong Tea (ウーロン茶) – A good alternative to green tea, great with heavier meals
- Ramune (ラムネ) – A fun, sweet soda that pairs well with casual bento meals
- Calpis (カルピス) – A slightly milky, yogurt-like drink that balances salty and umami flavors
🛤️ Best with: Fried or grilled bentos like Kirishima Black Pork Ginger Bento
🍺 4️⃣ Beer – A Classic for Meat Lovers
For those who enjoy beer, Japan has excellent local craft beers that go well with meat-based ekiben. Try a Kirin, Asahi, or Sapporo beer to accompany your meal.
🛤️ Best with: Yakitori, beef, and spicy bentos
🚆Why You Should Try Japanese Ekiben Bento on Your Next Trip
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler in Japan, ekiben is one of the best ways to experience Japanese food culture. Here’s why you should try ekiben on your next journey:
✔️ Authentic & Local Flavors – Each bento represents the unique tastes of different regions in Japan
✔️ Convenient & Delicious – Perfect for enjoying on a train ride or as a quick meal
✔️ Beautifully Packaged – A feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds
✔️ Great for Souvenirs – Some ekiben boxes are so beautifully designed that they make great collectibles
✔️ Affordable Gourmet Food – Experience high-quality Japanese meals at reasonable prices
Next time you’re traveling in Japan, don’t miss the chance to pick up an ekiben at a train station and enjoy a delicious journey through Japan’s rich food culture! 🚆🍱
👉 Which ekiben are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments!