The popularity of ekiben reached a peak in the 1980s, but declined as air travel became more affordable and trains became faster.

However, numerous types of ekiben can still be purchased at stands in the station, on the platform, or on the train itself, some of which may be presented in unique containers that can serve as souvenirs or collectables.

The word ekiben comes from "eki", meaning railway station, and "ben", which is short for bento (box meal).

[1] In many places, ekiben have become souvenirs of local specialty for tourists with unique containers and attractive packaging.

[3] This "Golden Age" of ekiben, however, ended in the 1980s when air travel became popular and the introduction of faster trains became more widespread.

[6] Faster trains such as the Shinkansen also eliminated many stops along a railway journey, which contributed to its decline, and some stations no longer offer ekiben.

For example, masuzushi is a variety of ekiben from Toyama Prefecture that features trout oshizushi (pressed sushi) wrapped in bamboo leaves.