Refrain from eating on urban trains. However, the consumption of snacks, meals and drinks is perfectly okay at your seat on long-distance trains, but avoid bringing overly smelly food and make sure not to leave any garbage behind.

In Japan, the etiquette for drinking on trains depends entirely on the type of train you are riding. On Shinkansen (bullet trains) and long-distance "Limited Express" trains, drinking water, tea, and even alcoholic beverages is completely acceptable and encouraged, as these trains are designed for long-haul comfort and often feature tray tables. However, on local commuter trains and subways in major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, drinking (other than a quick, discreet sip of water or tea from a bottle) is generally frowned upon, though not strictly "forbidden." The general rule of thumb is to be mindful of your surroundings; if the train is packed with commuters, it's best to wait until you reach the platform. If you must drink on a local train, ensure it is from a bottle with a secure cap to prevent spills. Strongly scented or "open-cup" drinks should always be avoided on local lines. On the Shinkansen, enjoying a drink while eating an "Ekiben" (station bento box) is considered a quintessential part of the Japanese travel experience in 2026.