Keio Department Store Shinjuku (1-1-4 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo) will hold the “Original Famous Ekiben and Nationwide Good Food Festival” again in 2026. The event will run for a total of 16 days, with the first week from January 6 to 14, and the second week from January 15 to 21.
This year’s event, the 61st of its kind, will feature popular events such as “Commemorative Domburi,” “Showdown Project,” and “Ganbare, Local Lines,” as well as new events that offer new ways to enjoy and taste ekiben! Local Line,” and other popular programs, as well as new programs that offer new ways to enjoy ekiben and new tastes. A total of 41 ekiben producers will be present for demonstrations, offering more than 380 kinds of ekiben, including transported ekiben.
In 2026, the showdown plan that was revived in 2025 for the first time in five tournaments will be continued. The “Big Stuffed Bento Showdown” will be held for the first time in 2026, featuring each ekiben shop’s special ingredients and cooking methods! The first ekiben featuring ingredients and cooking methods that are the specialties of each store will make their first appearance.
In addition to the ekiben, there will be many new events such as “Ekiben-ya no Korokke” (croquettes from an ekiben shop) in collaboration with an ekiben producer and “Gelato Collection” featuring popular gelateria flavors recommended by the Japan Gelato Association. Visitors can enjoy good food from about 70 stores, ranging from sweets to prepared foods.
The event will be held on the 7th floor of the main event hall and open from 10:00 to 20:00 (closing at 17:00 on December 14 and 21). Keio Internet Shopping will accept advance reservations for ekiben from December 27, 10:00 to January 19, 2026.
© Source travel watch