Bento Box

Japanese Name

べんとうばこ

bentoubako

Description

A bento box is a Japanese lunch box used to carry a single portion of a meal. It typically consists of several compartments, allowing for a variety of foods to be arranged neatly and separately within the box. Bento boxes are popular for preparing home-packed meals, especially for lunch, and are commonly used for both kids and adults in Japan, as well as other countries.

Bento boxes originated in Japan over 1,000 years ago during the Kamakura period.
Originally, they were simple wooden or bamboo containers used to carry meals.
During the Edo period, bentos became more elaborate with multiple compartments.
The invention of lacquerware improved the durability and appearance of bento boxes.
With modernization, metal and plastic bento boxes became common in the 20th century.
Today, bento boxes are popular worldwide for packed meals and lunch culture.
They often reflect creativity and balance in Japanese cuisine and presentation.