Can I eat food and drink at Shinkansen?

Yes — eating and drinking on the Shinkansen is completely normal in Japan.

In fact, many travelers consider it part of the experience. Whether it’s coffee, snacks, beer, or a local bento box, relaxing with food while watching Japan pass by outside the window is one of the simple pleasures of Shinkansen travel.

Try an Ekiben During Your Trip

One of the most popular Shinkansen traditions is trying an ekiben — a boxed meal sold at train stations.

Different regions across Japan offer unique ekiben using local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

You may find:

• Seafood bento in Hokkaido
• Beef bento near Kobe
• Gyutan (beef tongue) bento in Sendai

Many travelers enjoy exploring ekiben shops before boarding their train.

Where to Buy Food and Drinks

Most Shinkansen stations have plenty of food options.

You’ll often find:

• KIOSK convenience stands
• Bento shops
• Bakeries
• Coffee shops
• Convenience stores

Large stations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Shin-Osaka Stations have especially wide selections both inside and outside the Shinkansen gates.

Many shops are located inside the gates, so you can buy food and drinks on your way to the platform.

A Few Simple Manners

Eating on the Shinkansen is allowed, but trains are generally quiet spaces.

Please try to:

• Avoid very strong-smelling foods
• Keep conversations quiet
• Clean up after eating

Trash bins are usually available onboard near the deck areas.

Whether you’re enjoying snacks, coffee, or a regional ekiben while passing Mount Fuji, eating on the Shinkansen is part of what makes train travel in Japan so memorable.

Enjoy your journey!