Of all the different manifestations of bento that exist in Japan, ekiben occupy a special place. They’re not just dull meals to fill up hungry travelers like airline meals or the boring sandwiches and such that you get on European trains. The best ekiben provide a small window into the regional cuisine and culture of the place where the bento is produced.

The people who make and sell these bento do so with great thought and pride in what they do. They’re regarded as a means of drawing tourists and bringing fame and fortune to the region. And for travelers, they’re just plain fun!