If you're planning to travel around Japan, especially by bullet train (Shinkansen), don't miss the opportunity to experience Ekiben – a delightful and iconic boxed lunch available at train stations across the country!
The name "Ekiben" comes from the Japanese words eki (駅) meaning station and ben (弁) meaning bento (boxed lunch). These portable meals are a staple for travelers on Japan’s extensive rail network, especially for mid-to-long trips and can be found at major train stations and Shinkansen (bullet train) terminals. Ekibesn often features regional specialties and local ingredients that highlight the diverse flavors of Japan. Think fresh rice, crisp pickles, savory fish, and tender meats, all packed into a convenient, easy-to-carry box.
One of the most beloved Ekiben in Hyogo is Hipparidakomeshi (as shown in the picture below). As you'll notice, each Ekiben has its own unique container, and it doesn’t always come in a box. Hipparidakomeshi is served in a ceramic container that resembles the traditional fishing pot used to catch octopus. Inside, you'll find cooked rice topped with savory octopus and vegetables like bamboo shoots and shiitake mushrooms, highlighting the local specialties of Akashi, a city renowned for its fresh seafood, especially octopus. This Ekiben was created to celebrate the inauguration of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge in 1998 and has since become a beloved dish for both locals and travelers. There are also special limited edition ceramic containers featuring popular characters like Hello Kitty and other anime figures. Discovering these unique Ekiben is another exciting way to experience Japanese Ekiben culture.
At most major stations, there is an Ekiben shop or a convenience store where you can find Ekibens priced between $10 and $20. For example, if you're traveling through Hyogo, be sure to stop by JR Himeji Station, JR Shin-Kobe Station or JR Kinosaki onsen station as they are known for their delicious and unique Ekiben offerings. From Kobe beef to crab meats, you're bound to find something that will satisfy your appetite while on the go.
Makunouchi Bento
Traditional type of Ekiben is called ”Makunouchi Bento”（幕ノ内弁当). It typically includes a variety of small dishes, each representing different flavors and textures. The term "makunouchi" originally referred to food served during intermissions at the theater, especially during kabuki performances, and it has evolved to describe a well-balanced, compartmentalized meal that's both visually appealing and diverse in taste.
Hyogo Gokoku Shuko Bento (LEFT)
A unique bento box featuring a variety of local ingredients from five regions in Hyogo: Tajima, Tamba, Settsu, Harima, and Awaji.
Makunouchi-obento (CENTER)
Kobe Shokkan (RIGHT)
Kobe Beef Ekiben
Tajima Beef Gyu-meshi Bento (LEFT)
The tender and moist Tajima beef, the original type of Kobe beef, simmered in a sweet and savory sukiyaki-style sauce served over rice.
Kobe Beef Sukiyaki Bento (CENTER)
Fuyu no Teppanyaki Bento (RIGHT)
Crab (Kani 蟹) Sushi Ekiben
Often referred to as the King of Taste, crab or kani（蟹） caught in northern parts of Hyogo is famous for their rich flavor and meaty texture. The type of crab caught in the area is mainly snow crab (called Matsubagani in Japanese), one of the most popular and highly-regarded seafood in Japan. Kinosaki onsen area, a well-known hot spring resort in Hyogo Prefecture is one such place where you can enjoy fresh and rich seafood including exquisite crab meat. The Crab-sushi Ekiben sold at Kinosaki Station is a must-try if you're visiting the area to experience the region's delicious crab in a convenient, ready-to-eat meal.
Kinosaki Onsen Kani-sushi (LEFT)
On top of the vinegared rice, chopped dried gourd, lotus root, and burdock are placed, followed by thinly sliced scrambled egg, shredded ginger, and crab meat. It has a distinctive sweet and sour flavor with special vinegar made especially for the crab sushi preserving the traditional taste of the area.
Kinosaki Onsen Okonomi Kani-sushi Yumeguri Sanshu Mori (RIGHT)
Train-themed Ekiben
Ekiben can come in a variety of containers, not just as lunch boxes but also as fun and engaging items that enhance the travel experience. You could also reuse them afterwards as your own lunch box. For train enthusiasts, whether kids or adults, these train-themed containers make perfect travel companions, adding a touch of excitement to your journey.
JR Freight Container Bento (LEFT & CENTER)
This Ekiben was first created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of railway container transportation in Japan.In the green container, you can enjoy Tai-meshi (rice cooked with red snapper) which is locally famous in the Akashi area. The brown container Ekiben has sukiyaki and the blue container features Kyoto--themed specialities such as chicken teriyaki and deep fried tofu and pickles.
Yume no cho-tokkyu zero-kei Shinkansen Bento (RIGHT)
Sushi Roll Ekiben
Rolled sushi, or makizushi (巻き寿司), is a type of sushi where ingredients like fish, vegetables, and sometimes egg or other fillings are rolled up in a sheet of nori (seaweed) and vinegared rice. The roll is sliced into bite-sized pieces and are perfect for portable lunch you can travel with as Ekiben. The below are orthodox types of sushi rolls you can find at situations but you might find different types of rolled sushi depending on the region you are traveling to that showcase local ingredients and flavors as sushi rolls.
Anago-sushi (LEFT)
Anago (穴子) is a type of saltwater eel commonly used in Japanese cuisine including sushi.This sushi roll is seasoned with a special sauce.
Matsumae-sushi (CENTER)
Daimyo-maki (RIGHT)
Other Ekiben you don’t want to miss!
There are many more different types of Ekiben that we could not cover in this newsletter, each offering a unique experience based on your preferences and the station where you purchase them. One interesting option is the self-heated Ekiben, which features a special heating mechanism that warms up your bento without the need for a microwave. Each Ekiben has its own distinct theme, ingredients, container, and packaging design, making the experience of enjoying them even more fun.If you are a fan of Japanese anime or characters, there are also Ekibens in a cute (kawaii) container shaped like Hello Kitty and beloved anime characters.
Is there a particular type of Ekiben that you'd like to try?
Kansai Shumai Bento (LEFT)
A special Ekiben featuring shumai (steamed dumplings) made by Kiyoken, the renowned Shumai bento company in Yokohama.
Tajima-dori no Karaage Bento (CENTER)
Himeji Station Pork Katsu-meshi (RIGHT)
Mt. Rokko Juso Bento (LEFT)
A compact bento box designed to resemble traditional bamboo skin, which used to wrap small lunches in Japan. It is easy to carry and perfect to enjoy while watching beautiful green and a gentle breeze.
🔥Kobe Hot Steak Bento (CENTER)
Okame Bento (RIGHT)
