Boi 2 - A Closer Look into Bento

Hey guys, it’s your Boi 2, Nicha. Welcome back to my blog!


Ever since we have arrived in Japan, we have experienced a variety of foods that are unique to Japanese culture, whether it be yakiniku, okonomiyaki, sukiyaki and many more. Although these are no doubt very delicious and one-of-a-kind, it is not particularly convenient to seek out in Japan. Other foods, such as bento, can be found everywhere in Japan, no matter where you are in the country. I have found out that it is because it is a staple food in Japan, that is why bento is so common in Japan. In addition to the availability of these meal boxes, you will find that they are not that expensive either, with most costing around $5 (however, there are some very expensive ones, which could cost up to $2000). You can find bento in train stations, airports, schools, cafes, supermarkets, or just any restaurant in general.


The basic ingredients that goes into bento includes rice, a main, and a vegetable side. While rice is always a base for any kind of bento, the main and the vegetable side have a variety of interchangeable options; the main is usually a type of protein, typically meat, albeit many do substitute for fish instead. The most common type of meat is beef (hamburg, teriyaki etc.) and chicken (karaage, teriyaki), and the most common type of fish is mackerel or saba. The vegetable side can range anywhere from pickled plum, to boiled vegetables, however, a typical Japanese bento will contain broccoli and/or grape tomatoes. This makes up a very balanced meal, which I think contributes to the healthy lifestyle of the Japanese population. This is another note I have made ever since I have been in Japan; I have not seen one obese or overweight Japanese person, I believe this is partly due to the food the Japanese promotes, and partly due to the amount of walking one has to do to get to places.


These bentos are also very aesthetically pleasing, mostly cute, or what we say in Japanese; ‘kawaii’. Many people will try to make their bentos very cute and photogenic, most likely to increase appetite. To do this, people will actually use scissors cut up nori (seaweed) into small pieces to decorate the bento, like making some animal faces or even emojis. Something I’ve found out that is very specific to Japanese bento culture is wiener sausages; mini sausages are cut from one (or 2 sometimes) end into 4 quarters, and then stir fried. By doing so, it creates a sausage with flares at the end, making it resembling an octopus. This then in turn, adds to the cuteness portion of the bento.


We have been in Japan for a week now starting today, and there are so many good food to eat here that unfortunately, I have not tried any authentic Japanese bento yet. But as the days progress, I am positive that I will get to try it. I am looking forward to trying many varieties of bento, and to report my findings in a future blog.