Japanese Local meals "EKIBEN"

Ekiben (Railway boxed meal) are a specific type of bento boxed meals, sold on trains and train stations in Japan. Today, many types of ekiben can still be purchased; at stands in the station, on the platform, or on the train itself. They come with disposable chopsticks (when necessary) or a spoon. Ekiben containers can be made from plastic, wood, or ceramic. Many train stations have since become famous for their especially tasty ekiben, made from local food specialties. The "Golden Age" of ekiben, however, ended three decades ago. At that time, air trip was quite expensive and train speed was slower. Many tourists needed ekiben during their train trip.