Looking to eat healthier, save money, or just make lunchtime more fun? Bento boxes are the answer.
Whether you're packing a lunch for work, school, a hike, or a picnic, a Japanese bento box combines practicality, beauty, and sustainability in one compact container. This guide covers everything you need to know—from bento box types and materials to meal prep tips and care instructions.
1. What is a bento box?
A bento box is a Japanese-style lunch box, traditionally packed with a balanced meal: rice, protein, and a few colorful side dishes. Today, bento culture has grown globally, with modern containers and designs that suit every lifestyle—from kids to adults.
Origins of the Word Bento
The word bento (弁当) originates from the Chinese term biandang, meaning “convenient.” In Japan, bento dates back centuries and was used by farmers, travelers, and samurai. Over time, it evolved from bamboo-wrapped meals to lacquered wooden boxes and now, modern lunch containers.
Types of Bento Boxes
- One-Tier and Two-Tier Boxes: Great for daily use, in volumes from 500ml (small appetite) to 1,300ml (hearty meals).
- Shokado Bento Boxes: Elegant multi-compartment boxes used in restaurants or for hosting.
- Picnic Bento Boxes: Often with 2–3 tiers, ideal for sharing meals outdoors or at home with guests.
2. Why choose a bento box?
Eco-Friendly and Reusable. No more piles of takeaway containers—bento boxes reduce waste. With proper care, many can last for years.
Budget-Friendly. Meal prepping with a bento saves you from expensive lunches and food waste. Leftovers become tomorrow’s masterpiece.
Built-In Portion Control. Ideal for children and adults watching their food intake. Bento compartments help create well-balanced, calorie-conscious meals.
More Enjoyable Meals. There’s something joyful about opening a box filled with colorful, delicious bites—especially when you’ve made it yourself.
3. Bento Box Basics: What You Need to Know
Are bento boxes microwave safe? Most BPA-free plastic boxes are—but lids and inner parts usually aren’t.
Do bento boxes keep food warm? Only if they're insulated. Try a thermal bento box or stainless steel container.
Are bento boxes healthy? Yes—if you pack nutritious meals, they’re perfect for balanced eating and even weight loss.
Do’s and Dont’s of Bento Boxes
How to master the art of Bento
- Batch prep: Cook extra rice or sides and store them in the fridge to make packing fast during the week.
- Keep it simple: Use leftovers or stick to 3–5 ingredients. Your first bento might not be pretty, but they will improve with time and practice.
- Hand wash: Mandatory for wooden boxes, washing by hand with a soft soap and sponge will avoid paint chipping on hand-painted boxes.
- Accessorize: Use dividers and cups to organize your bento, picks and lunch bands to decorate it, and bags or furoshiki to wrap it beautifully.
What not to do with a Bento Box
- Don’t microwave the lids. The transparent inner lid is usually made out of silicone, EVA or polypropylene, which does not withstand heat.
- Don’t seal it with hot food inside. Always let your food cool first to avoid suction and condensation.
- Don’t leave leftovers sitting in the box. Clean your box after eating to prevent smells and stains. If you can’t wash it right away, wipe the inside with a wet tissue.
4. How to choose a bento box: a matter of size, shape, design and material
Choosing the right bento box depends on a few key factors: size, shape, material, and design.
What size bento box should I buy?
First, consider the size that fits your appetite and lifestyle.
Small boxes (under 500ml) are perfect for toddlers or snack-sized meals. Medium sizes (500–780ml) are ideal for most adults packing lunch for work or school. If you have a bigger appetite—or you're preparing lunch for teenagers—larger boxes (780ml and up) will give you more flexibility. Extra-large bento boxes (1,000ml or more) are great for sharing meals on picnics or long outings.
What shape bento box should I buy?
Shape is another consideration.
Rectangular boxes are best for layered meals like rice with proteins and sides, while round or oval boxes work well for casserole dishes, pasta, and salads. Square boxes are great for sandwiches, and easy to fit inside a lunch bag or backpack.
What material bento box should I buy?
When it comes to materials, BPA-free plastic bento boxes are lightweight, easy to clean, and often dishwasher-safe, making them ideal for everyday use.
Stainless steel or aluminum bento boxes offer durability and help maintain food temperature longer.
Wooden bento boxes, though more delicate, add a touch of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and elegance to your meals.
What design bento box are there?
Lastly, think about the design.
Some bento boxes are sleek and minimalist, while others feature traditional Japanese patterns or popular licensed characters like Hello Kitty, Totoro, or Pokémon. Whether you prefer something understated or something playful, there’s a bento box to match your style.
5. Bento Box Ideas: Our recommendations
Bento Boxes for adults
For adults looking for a compact and stylish lunch solution, the Asanoha Bento offers an elegant Japanese pattern and a clever design that saves space once your meal is finished.
The Nuri Wappa Bento features a classic wood-tone look and two tiers for effortless meal organization—perfect for work lunches.
If you prefer something cute and colorful, the Mayudon Bento in soft pastel hues adds a gentle, feminine touch to your lunch routine.
Bento Boxes for teenagers
Teenagers often need more food to keep up with their active schedules.
The Itadakimasu Bento Box and Nokorimono Bento Box provide ample space for a full meal and snacks.
Similarly, the Blue Ocean Nami Bento Box and Sakura Petals Big Bento Box are large-capacity options with stylish designs that appeal to older kids and teens.
Bento Boxes for kids/toddlers
For younger children and toddlers, fun and functional options include the Maruko Cat Two Tier Bento Box and Kao Neko Bento Box—both shaped like adorable cats and sized for smaller portions.
The Kokeshi Bento Boxes are tower-shaped and compact, making them easy to pack in a school bag and suitable for elementary-aged kids.
Bento Boxes for hosting at home
If you're hosting a meal at home, bento boxes can also double as elegant serving dishes.
The Bento&co Signature Box offers multiple compartments and a polished look—perfect for impressing guests.
The Shokado Kaga Bento Box brings restaurant-quality presentation to your dining table or cozy night in.
Bento Boxes for hiking
For outdoor adventures, the Zen Stainless Steel Bento Boxes and Seagull Tiffin Bento Boxes are built to last. These metal boxes are rugged, easy to clean, and great at maintaining food temperature—ideal for hiking or camping trips.
Bento Boxes for picnics
Lastly, when it’s time for a picnic, you’ll want something spacious and shareable.
The Ojyu Three Tier Picnic Box Medium, Plum Blossom Bento Box, and Wagasa Totoro Two Tier Picnic Box offer two to three tiers for packing different dishes and feeding groups of up to six people. Beautiful and practical, they’ll make you the star of any outdoor gathering.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
What do you put in a bento lunch box?
Rice or noodles, a protein (like tamagoyaki rolled omelet, tofu, or karaage fried chicken), vegetables, and a treat like fruit or mochi.
How do you pack a bento box?
Start with your starch base, add protein and sides, then fill gaps with small items like pickles or cherry tomatoes.
Are bento boxes good for weight loss?
Yes—controlling portions and balancing food groups makes mindful eating easier.
Can I put a bento box in the microwave?
Only if it's microwave-safe (most BPA-free plastic boxes are). Always remove the lids.
Where can I buy a Japanese bento box?
Right here at Bento&co — shipped directly from Kyoto, directly to your house. If you’re visiting Kyoto, you can stop by our physical store, 5 minutes away from the famous Nishiki Market!
Conclusion
Whether you're a busy parent, a student, or a foodie, a bento box brings joy and practicality to your meals. It’s more than a lunch box—it’s a lifestyle rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and care.
Ready to start your bento journey? Browse our best-selling bento boxes or explore bento box accessories to upgrade your lunch game today.