Bento is a popular Japanese meal traditionally served in a wooden box, offering a well-balanced and convenient way to enjoy a variety of foods. Dating back centuries, bento could be considered one of the world’s first forms of fast food. Originally developed for farmers, schoolchildren, and even samurai warriors, bento allowed people to carry a small, quickly prepared meal with them while they worked or traveled.
The concept of bento dates back to at least the Kamakura period (1185–1333), when dried rice (hoshi-ii) was carried in small pouches and eaten on the go. By the Edo period (1603–1868), bento had become more elaborate, with beautifully crafted wooden lacquered boxes used to present meals during tea ceremonies and special events. Over time, bento evolved from a simple sustenance meal into a culturally significant and aesthetically pleasing way to enjoy food.
Traditionally, bento meals were wrapped in large leaves, such as bamboo leaves, which helped preserve freshness. Later, wooden boxes became the preferred method of serving bento, offering both practicality and an elegant presentation. Today, modern convenience has led to disposable plastic and cardboard bento boxes, though traditional wooden and lacquered versions are still used for special occasions and high-end meals.
Types of Bento
There are many different types of bento, each catering to different settings and needs. One of the most popular and widely available is ekiben (駅弁), also known as the train station bento.
Ekiben – The Train Station Bento
Ekiben bento is a type of pre-packaged meal designed for travelers. Typically served cold, these bento often feature sushi, rice, pickled vegetables, grilled fish, or other delicacies that hold up well over long journeys. The packaging is usually a disposable plastic or cardboard box, though some premium ekiben come in beautifully designed reusable wooden containers.
Ekiben is particularly popular on Shinkansen (bullet trains) and at railway stations across Japan. Many stations are famous for their regional specialties, meaning travelers can experience local flavors while on the move. Some notable examples include:
- Kanazawa’s Crab Bento – Featuring fresh snow crab from the Sea of Japan.
- Hokkaido’s Seafood Bento – Loaded with salmon, roe, and other seafood delicacies.
- Tokyo’s Katsu Bento – Featuring crispy pork cutlet with rice.
Ekiben can also be found at airports, where they serve as a convenient meal option for air travelers.
Convenience Store & Supermarket Bento
For those looking for a quick and affordable meal, pre-packaged bento meals can be found in convenience stores (konbini), supermarkets, and department store food basements (depachika). These bento typically contain rice, grilled fish or chicken, pickled vegetables, and sometimes noodles or fried foods.
Other on-the-go options include:
- Onigiri (rice balls) – Filled with ingredients such as salmon, tuna mayo, or pickled plum, these are a staple of Japanese convenience food.
- Sandwiches – Japanese sandwiches are often soft and fluffy, with fillings like egg salad, pork katsu, or strawberries and cream.
- Sushi packs – Small sushi assortments, often featuring maki rolls or nigiri, are easy to find in supermarkets and convenience stores.
These budget-friendly meals are perfect for travelers, commuters, or anyone looking for a quick and satisfying bite.
Bento Today
While bento originated as a simple way to carry meals, it has evolved into a cultural icon of Japanese cuisine. From beautifully arranged kyaraben (character bento) featuring food shaped into anime characters, to gourmet kaiseki-style bento served at fine restaurants, bento has become both a practical and artistic way to enjoy food.
Whether grabbing an ekiben for a scenic train ride, picking up a konbini bento for lunch, or indulging in a handcrafted bento from a specialty shop, there is a bento option for every occasion and taste.
