Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
Taipei Main Station is filled with an authentic Japanese atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience the deep charm of Japanese railway bento boxes right here in Taiwan. (Image source / Taiwan Railways)
These popular bento boxes from Tokyo Station will be available for sale at Taipei Main Station from August 12 to August 31, a period of nearly three weeks. To celebrate the first-ever shop opening in Taiwan, JR East Japan has gone all out by flying in a lucky capsule toy machine worth nearly one million yen. On the opening day, August 12, every customer who purchases a bento can enjoy a free capsule toy. The capsules feature popular characters from Tokyo’s Yamanote Line, including Hachiko the loyal dog, Ueno pandas, and Tokyo Station. There are also exclusive collectibles for train enthusiasts, such as mini models of JR East Japan’s most popular train series — including the recently retired “Dream Star Sleeper Train” and the “E6 Akita Shinkansen,” designed by Ferrari’s car designer — all available as miniature collectibles.
Representatives from Taiwan Railways and JR East Japan attend the event. (Image source / Taiwan Railways)
In addition, JR East Japan will launch the “Tohoku Gratitude Festival” on August 23. The first 30 customers to purchase a bento that day will each receive an exclusive limited-edition SUICA Penguin pillow, JR East Japan’s mascot. There will also be a Japanese crane game where participants can win big prizes, such as the “JR East Japan PASS Tohoku Edition” worth 19,000 yen, a life-sized SUICA Penguin pillow, and Shinkansen models. The million-yen capsule toy machine will make another appearance that day too. Even those who don’t win the grand prize can take home a Tohoku sightseeing-themed capsule. Moreover, the event will feature a re-release of the magical self-heating beef tongue bento, giving Taiwanese visitors a taste of the culinary delights of Japan’s Tohoku region.
Starting August 12, JR East Japan’s popular railway bento boxes will be available for purchase on the first floor of Taipei Main Station. (Image source / Taiwan Railways)
In this limited-time collaboration between JR East Japan and Taiwan Railways, only 50 E7 Shinkansen Bentos and 50 Japanese Hospitality Heart Bentos will be sold each day, while 100 Sumida River Bentos will be available daily. Fans of Japanese railway bento boxes should seize this opportunity to enjoy these unique treats.