Food

What You DON'T Know About Japan Train Platform Food Stands

Dec 29 (Paolo fromTOKYO) - If you’ve ever ridden a train in Japan, you may have noticed food stalls on the train platform many of which are standing soba shops.

And to many newcomers, it may seem a bit odd to eat here, so I wanted to shed some light on this unique Japanese culture and even give you some recommendations for your next trip to Japan. The history of standing soba shops dates back to the Edo period. After the Great Fire of Meireki, which devastated over 60% of Tokyo, food stalls called YATAI became popular among the carpenters helping to rebuild the city. While there were no trains back then, the concept of accessible, fast food carried into the Meiji period. And Over time, these soba shops evolved in form and variety eventually making their way onto train platforms…and have existed ever since. Japanese now, view them as quick, ultra convenient and relatively cheap satisfying meals that they can have just before they rush off to you next destination.

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