Ekiben: Savoring Japan’s Train-Travel Delicacies

A typical $10 (1000 Yen) Bento, bought from a bento store in Tokyo Terminal.
A typical $10 (1000 Yen) Bento, bought from a bento store in Tokyo Terminal.

Ekiben, the quintessential Japanese train travel companion, are specially crafted bento box meals that showcase the unique flavors of each region. As passengers journey through Japan, they can indulge in these locally inspired delicacies that differ from station to station. In the 1980s, the popularity of ekiben soared, with an estimated 12 million boxes enjoyed daily across the country.

Cultivating Values through Cleanliness: Japan’s Unique School Tradition

In the majority of Japanese schools, janitors or custodians are not hired for cleaning tasks. The Japanese education system upholds the belief that students should be responsible for maintaining their schools’ cleanliness. This practice instills values of respect, responsibility, and equality among students. By participating in communal cleaning activities called “osoji,” students learn to take care of their shared environment, develop teamwork skills, and appreciate the efforts of those who maintain cleanliness in other contexts.