60th Original Famous Ekiben and National Delicious Foods Fair
A 19-Day Celebration of Japan’s Culinary Heritage
The Keio Department Store in Shinjuku is set to host its annual signature event, the "Original Famous Ekiben and Nationwide Delicious Foods Fair," for an unprecedented 19 days, from January 4th (Saturday) to January 22nd (Wednesday), 2025. This year marks the 60th anniversary of this iconic fair, making it a particularly special occasion for both the organizers and attendees.
A Legacy of Culinary Excellence
The "Ekiben Fair," as it is commonly known, has been a continuous tradition since 1966. It stands as one of the largest department store exhibitions in Japan, both in terms of scale and sales. While the original purpose of ekiben—boxed meals sold at train stations—has evolved with advancements in transportation, the fair has adapted, showcasing the rich diversity of regional Japanese cuisine.
In recent years, ekiben have garnered attention not just as convenient travel meals but as gourmet representations of local food cultures. Enthusiasts now enjoy them as culinary highlights at their destinations and even collect the unique containers as souvenirs. This shift in perception has broadened the appeal of ekiben, transforming them into a multifaceted culinary experience.
"Nostalgic Flavors, New Tastes"
The 60th iteration of the fair embraces the theme "Nostalgic Flavors, New Tastes," offering a curated selection of both time-honored classics and innovative new creations. This dual focus allows visitors to appreciate the enduring charm of beloved ekiben while also discovering new flavors born from the ingenuity of ekiben preparers.
The fair will be divided into three periods:
- Period ①: January 4th (Saturday) – January 8th (Wednesday)
- Period ②: January 9th (Thursday) – January 15th (Wednesday)
- Period ③: January 16th (Thursday) – January 22nd (Wednesday)
This extended duration, the longest in the fair’s history, provides ample opportunity for visitors to explore the offerings at their leisure. A remarkable 47 ekiben preparers will be present for live sales throughout the event, ensuring a vibrant and interactive atmosphere.
Event Details
- Venue: Keio Department Store Shinjuku
- Nearest Station: Shinjuku Station (1-minute walk)
- Address: 〒160-8321 Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Nishi-Shinjuku 1-1-4 (MAP)
- Event Period: January 4th (Saturday) – January 22nd (Wednesday), 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closing at 5:00 PM on January 15th (Wednesday), and at 6:00 PM on the final day, January 22nd (Wednesday))
- Fee: Free
- Inquiries: Navi Dial 0570-022-810
Please note that the published content is subject to change. For the latest information, refer to the official website of the venue or the organizer.
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What is an Ekiben?
An ekiben is a type of bento box meal available at train stations throughout Japan, providing travelers with a convenient way to enjoy regional cuisine. The word "ekiben" combines "eki," meaning station, and "bento," a packed meal. These meals offer a practical solution for travelers and a chance to experience local flavors and ingredients.
Each ekiben is designed to highlight local specialties, often using seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage. From fresh seafood in coastal areas to mountain vegetables in rural regions, ekiben showcase Japan’s diverse food landscape. They are presented in decorative boxes, making them visually appealing as well.
The tradition of ekiben began in the late 19th century and has become a cherished part of Japanese travel culture. Today, events like the Keio Department Store’s ekiben fair bring together a variety of these regional meals, allowing people to sample different ekiben without traveling far.
