Buying an Ekiben on the Shinkansen: How to Ask "Which is popular?"
One of the most unique and delicious joys of traveling by Shinkansen (bullet train) in Japan is the "ekiben" (駅弁). These station bento boxes are far from your average packed lunch. They are beautifully crafted meals, often featuring the local specialties and famous ingredients of the region you're departing from.
Choosing an ekiben from the dozens of colorful options available at the station kiosks can be overwhelming. While pointing is always an option, why not engage with the staff and find out which one is the local favorite? A simple question can lead you to an unforgettable meal.
This guide will teach you the simple phrases you need to ask for a recommendation and purchase the perfect ekiben for your train journey.
1. Getting the Staff's Attention
The ekiben stalls can be busy. To politely get the attention of a staff member, a simple phrase is all you need.
You:
すみません！
(Sumimasen!)
"Excuse me!"
2. Asking for a Recommendation
Instead of asking for a general "recommendation" (おすすめ), it's very common to ask which bento is the most "popular." This is often the best way to find the local specialty.
The Key Question:
一番人気なのはどれですか？
(Ichiban ninki na no wa dore desu ka?)
"Which one is the most popular?"
Let's break it down:
- 一番 (Ichiban): "The most" or "number one."
- 人気なのは (Ninki na no wa): "The popular one is..."
- どれですか？ (dore desu ka?): "Which one is it?"
You can, of course, also use the classic 「おすすめは何ですか？」 (Osusume wa nan desu ka?).
3. Making Your Choice
Once the staff member points out the most popular ekiben, you can make your decision.
You (after they recommend one):
じゃあ、これを一つお願いします。
(Jaa, kore o hitotsu onegaishimasu.)
"Okay then, I'll have this one, please."
- じゃあ (Jaa): "Then..." or "In that case..."
- これを一つ (Kore o hitotsu): "This one." (一つ - hitotsu is the counter for one general item).
- お願いします (Onegaishimasu): "Please."
4. At the Checkout
Just like in a convenience store, the staff will ask a couple of quick questions.
Staff: お箸はお付けしますか？
(O-hashi wa o-tsuke shimasu ka?)
"Shall I include chopsticks?"
Staff: 袋にお入れしますか？
(Fukuro ni o-ire shimasu ka?)
"Shall I put this in a bag for you?"
You can simply reply はい、お願いします (Hai, onegaishimasu) to both.
Conclusion
Choosing an ekiben is a delicious part of the Shinkansen experience. By asking "Ichiban ninki na no wa dore desu ka?", you're not just buying lunch; you're getting a taste of the local culture recommended by someone who knows it best.
Enjoy your meal, and have a great trip!