A bento box is an all-in-one Japanese lunch box containing a single portion of a balanced meal. This meal typically consists of a starch (like rice or noodles), a protein, and assorted vegetable and fruit side dishes. 

The bento box dates back to the Kamakura period in the twelfth century, when it featured dried rice and was known as simply *hoshi-ii*, or “dried meal.” The format was refined in the Edo period (1603–1867) when it became fashionable to tote *koshi bento*—bento boxes worn around the waist, containing [onigiri](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/onigiri-guide) rice balls wrapped in bamboo leaves—while traveling or sightseeing.

Modern bentos come in all shapes and sizes: bento enthusiasts can choose from boxes made from traditional lacquered cypress wood, aluminum, or plastic, in standard oval or custom shapes. Some bento boxes have compartments for ice packs, cutlery, chopsticks, and drinks. 

In Japan, bento is defined by style, season, and location: 

1. __*Ekiben*__: *Ekiben* are bentos sold in train stations, often featuring local specialties. The first train station bento was sold during the Meiji period (1868–1912), and they’ve since become a commuting staple. 
2. __*Hokaben*__: *Hokaben* refers to a box purchased from a take-out bento shop with hot, freshly prepared side dishes and rice. The name comes from the chain that first popularized the concept.
3. __*Konbini*__: These convenience store bentos are designed to be easy and quick, with meal sets that are microwavable.
4. __*Jubako*__: These stackable boxes intended for a group are often quite ornate in design. They’re used for [*osechi ryori*](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/osechi-guide), the traditional Japanese New Year dishes presented in visually appealing boxes.
5. __*Koraku*__: *Koraku*, also known as the “picnic bento,” is designed for sharing. *Koraku* boxes are usually prepared for a seasonal event or festival, with dishes to fit the occasion. 
6. __*Kyaraben*__: “Character bentos” feature dishes modeled after characters from anime, manga, or popular video games. 
7. __*Makunouchi*__: This “between-act” bento is a popular style that features a split-panel presentation: rice on one side and side dishes on the other. 
8. __*Oekakiben*__: This “picture bento” models dishes after landscapes, people, and buildings.

To make your own bento-style lunchbox, consider these tips:

1. __Allow the items to cool before sealing__. If you’re including warm or hot items in your bento, allow them to come to room temperature before sealing the box. Trapped steam can lead to unwanted condensation and bacteria. 
2. __Consider textures__. Part of the bento’s brilliance is its attention to how the array of dishes look and complement each other. Try to include crispy and crunchy elements, like [*senbei*](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/senbei-guide) or fried rice balls, along with soft ones, like rice or vegetables, for a well-rounded dining experience. 
3. __Color is important__. The look of bento is half of the appeal: Brighten up more muted dishes by placing them alongside vibrant ones or punch out decorative pieces of nori to adhere to colorful pieces of fruit and vegetables. 

Bento boxes are highly customizable and straightforward to prepare. Here are some dishes and snacks to add to your next bento box: 

1. __Fresh fruit and vegetables__: Sections of tangerine, grapes, carrot sticks, sugar peas, or fresh cherry tomatoes are easy to pack, self-contained, and colorful.
2. __*Hijiki* salad__: *Hijiki* salad is a Japanese dish consisting of rehydrated and braised <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-edible-seaweed' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-edible-seaweed","linkCopy":"seaweed","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>seaweed</a>, served at room temperature, featuring ingredients like thin matchsticks of carrot or lotus root and *konnyaku* yam. For an easy addition of umami to your bento box, earthy *[hijiki](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/hijiki-seaweed-salad-recipe)* seaweed mixed with edamame and *[aburaage](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/aburaage-recipe)* (deep-fried tofu pouches) checks the vegetable box with loads of texture.
3. __*Kinpira*__: This *[gobo](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/kinpira-gobo-recipe)* (burdock root) and carrot salad is easy to make in large batches and serve throughout a week’s worth of bentos, and its sweet-savory braising liquid is full of flavor, even at room temperature.
4. __*Makizushi*__: Homemade sushi rolls are a great way to add color and easy handheld bites to any bento. 
5. __*Onigiri*__: These rice balls—stuffed with various fillings and wrapped with a piece of nori—are a classic bento box lunch item. 
6. __*Soboro don*__: This chicken-and-egg *[donburi](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/donburi-rice-bowls-guide)* (Japanese rice bowl) features seasoned ground chicken, finely [scrambled eggs](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-make-the-perfect-scrambled-eggs-with-gordon-ramsay), and peas or green beans over steamed rice.
7. __*Tamagoyaki*__: *Tamagoyaki*, or sweet egg omelet, is a standard part of Japanese breakfast, a side dish for lunch or dinner, and a common bento box addition. 
8. __*Tsukemono*__: Pickles are a refreshing addition to any lunch, adding a pop of acidity and dynamic flavor to clear the palate. 

Become a better chef with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Niki Nakayama, Gabriela Cámara, Chef Thomas Keller, Yotam Ottolenghi, Dominique Ansel, Gordon Ramsay, Alice Waters, and more.
Compact, curated, and packed full of creative whimsy, Japanese-style bento boxes highlight the culinary potential of lunchtime.

Compact, curated, and packed full of creative whimsy, Japanese-style bento boxes highlight the culinary potential of lunchtime.


8 Types of Bento Boxes: Bento Tips and Ideas to Try at Home

A bento box is an all-in-one Japanese lunch box containing a single portion of a balanced meal. This meal typically consists of a starch (like rice or noodles), a protein, and assorted vegetable and fruit side dishes. The bento box dates back to the Kamakura period in the twelfth century, when it featured dried rice and was known as simply hoshi-ii, or “dried meal.” The format was refined in the Edo period (1603–1867) when it became fashionable to tote koshi bento—bento boxes worn around the waist, containing <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/onigiri-guide' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/onigiri-guide","linkCopy":"onigiri","category":null}'>onigiri</a> rice balls wrapped in bamboo leaves—while traveling or sightseeing.Modern bentos come in all shapes and sizes: bento enthusiasts can choose from boxes made from traditional lacquered cypress wood, aluminum, or plastic, in standard oval or custom shapes. Some bento boxes have compartments for ice packs, cutlery, chopsticks, and drinks.

What Is a Bento Box?

In Japan, bento is defined by style, season, and location: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Ekiben: Ekiben are bentos sold in train stations, often featuring local specialties. The first train station bento was sold during the Meiji period (1868–1912), and they’ve since become a commuting staple. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Hokaben: Hokaben refers to a box purchased from a take-out bento shop with hot, freshly prepared side dishes and rice. The name comes from the chain that first popularized the concept. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Konbini: These convenience store bentos are designed to be easy and quick, with meal sets that are microwavable. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Jubako: These stackable boxes intended for a group are often quite ornate in design. They’re used for <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/osechi-guide' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/osechi-guide","linkCopy":"\u003cem class=\"mc-text--italic\"\u003eosechi ryori\u003c/em\u003e","category":null}'>osechi ryori</a>, the traditional Japanese New Year dishes presented in visually appealing boxes. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Koraku: Koraku, also known as the “picnic bento,” is designed for sharing. Koraku boxes are usually prepared for a seasonal event or festival, with dishes to fit the occasion. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 6. Kyaraben: “Character bentos” feature dishes modeled after characters from anime, manga, or popular video games. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 7. Makunouchi: This “between-act” bento is a popular style that features a split-panel presentation: rice on one side and side dishes on the other. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 8. Oekakiben: This “picture bento” models dishes after landscapes, people, and buildings. </li></ol>

8 Types of Bento Boxes

To make your own bento-style lunchbox, consider these tips:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Allow the items to cool before sealing. If you’re including warm or hot items in your bento, allow them to come to room temperature before sealing the box. Trapped steam can lead to unwanted condensation and bacteria. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Consider textures. Part of the bento’s brilliance is its attention to how the array of dishes look and complement each other. Try to include crispy and crunchy elements, like <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/senbei-guide' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/senbei-guide","linkCopy":"\u003cem class=\"mc-text--italic\"\u003esenbei\u003c/em\u003e","category":null}'>senbei</a> or fried rice balls, along with soft ones, like rice or vegetables, for a well-rounded dining experience. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Color is important. The look of bento is half of the appeal: Brighten up more muted dishes by placing them alongside vibrant ones or punch out decorative pieces of nori to adhere to colorful pieces of fruit and vegetables. </li></ol>

3 Tips for Making a Bento Box

Bento boxes are highly customizable and straightforward to prepare. Here are some dishes and snacks to add to your next bento box: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Fresh fruit and vegetables: Sections of tangerine, grapes, carrot sticks, sugar peas, or fresh cherry tomatoes are easy to pack, self-contained, and colorful. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Hijiki salad: Hijiki salad is a Japanese dish consisting of rehydrated and braised <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-edible-seaweed' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-edible-seaweed","linkCopy":"seaweed","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>seaweed</a>, served at room temperature, featuring ingredients like thin matchsticks of carrot or lotus root and konnyaku yam. For an easy addition of umami to your bento box, earthy <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/hijiki-seaweed-salad-recipe' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/hijiki-seaweed-salad-recipe","linkCopy":"hijiki","category":null}'>hijiki</a> seaweed mixed with edamame and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/aburaage-recipe' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/aburaage-recipe","linkCopy":"aburaage","category":null}'>aburaage</a> (deep-fried tofu pouches) checks the vegetable box with loads of texture. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Kinpira: This <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/kinpira-gobo-recipe' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/kinpira-gobo-recipe","linkCopy":"gobo","category":null}'>gobo</a> (burdock root) and carrot salad is easy to make in large batches and serve throughout a week’s worth of bentos, and its sweet-savory braising liquid is full of flavor, even at room temperature. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Makizushi: Homemade sushi rolls are a great way to add color and easy handheld bites to any bento. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Onigiri: These rice balls—stuffed with various fillings and wrapped with a piece of nori—are a classic bento box lunch item. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 6. Soboro don: This chicken-and-egg <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/donburi-rice-bowls-guide' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/donburi-rice-bowls-guide","linkCopy":"donburi","category":null}'>donburi</a> (Japanese rice bowl) features seasoned ground chicken, finely <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-make-the-perfect-scrambled-eggs-with-gordon-ramsay' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-make-the-perfect-scrambled-eggs-with-gordon-ramsay","linkCopy":"scrambled eggs","category":null}'>scrambled eggs</a>, and peas or green beans over steamed rice. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 7. Tamagoyaki: Tamagoyaki, or sweet egg omelet, is a standard part of Japanese breakfast, a side dish for lunch or dinner, and a common bento box addition. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 8. Tsukemono: Pickles are a refreshing addition to any lunch, adding a pop of acidity and dynamic flavor to clear the palate. </li></ol>

8 Bento Box Ideas

Become a better chef with the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a>. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Niki Nakayama, Gabriela Cámara, Chef Thomas Keller, Yotam Ottolenghi, Dominique Ansel, Gordon Ramsay, Alice Waters, and more.

Want to Learn More About Cooking?

Compact, curated, and packed full of creative whimsy, Japanese-style bento boxes highlight the culinary potential of lunchtime.