Ekiben are amazing. They are delicious, efficient, and compact. One big difference between these bento boxes and the typical grab n' go foods we see here in the

Ekiben are amazing. They are delicious, efficient, and compact. One big difference between these bento boxes and the typical grab n' go foods we see here in the US is that they provide such a diverse set of foods—meat, rice, veggies, fish, etc. Certainly, some contain an unhealthy amount of fried foods, but on average, you're getting a pretty balanced meal at a reasonable price. Compare this to a prototypical hot dog that you grab at an American train station.