Japan is renowned for its world-class rail and outstanding cuisine, and one of the best ways for travelers to experience both is by sampling ekiben (bento boxes designed for train travel).

Ekiben, ubiquitous in train stations throughout Japan, are much more than basic pre-arranged meals in a box. Reflecting local and seasonal specialties, the best ekiben are beautifully presented and feature a colorful array of ingredients, offering travelers a uniquely Japanese culinary experience.

Excited to explore Japanese cuisine while traveling between Japan’s best destinations" To help you travel like a local, we?ve put together this guide to Japan?s beloved train food so you can dine in style while riding the rails.

What Are Ekiben" 
The word ?ekiben? is a portmanteau, combining the Japanese ?eki? (meaning ?train station?) and a shortened form of ?bento? (meaning ?lunch box?). These boxed bentos are sold at long-distance train stations across the country, often using regional ingredients that capture the taste of Japan?s individual prefectures. 

A far cry from pre-packaged, nutritionally poor snacks, ekiben are well known for high-quality ingredients. To create a balanced meal, these bentos usually contain rice or noodles, vegetables, and meat, fish, or seafood for protein. 

The dishes can range from the simple (omelets, rice balls, tempura, or fried tofu) to the more extravagant (sea urchin, grilled beef tongue, stewed eel, and r...