Keep it long, treasure it long.

Two-layer bento box handmade in Akita

The type of bento box called Mage-Wappa is Japanese traditional craftwork. It is the technique of bending wood to make a container that people can carry food. This lunch box is also Mage-Wappa that can carry our lunch inside.

Mage-Wappa, the traditional craftwork

The material of the lunch box is 150 to 200-years-old Akita-sugi, a kind of cedar tree grown in Akita prefecture of Japan. Akita-sugi has a beautiful luster and is hard to warp. In addition to its excellent durability, Akita-sugi is good at adjusting the moisture and has an antibacterial effect. As if Akita-sugi is breathing, it sometimes absorbs moisture from ingredients and maintains humidity inside the lunch box. Besides, when you open the lid, you can enjoy its scent.

The craftwork, Mage-Wappa, has started its history in the Nara period (A.D. 710 to 794). It is said that a woodcutter bent a cedar wood and made a lunch box sewn with cherry tree bark. In Odate city of Akita prefecture, the production of Mage-Wappa started about 400 years ago, and Mage-Wappa produced in Odate city was designated as a national traditional craft in 1980. While there are various types of crafts called Mage-Wappa in Japan, the product of Odate city is the only one selected as a national traditional craft among Mage-Wappa because of its excellent technique and quality.

Simple care for long-use

Mage-Wappa is made through the process of boiling Akita-sugi, bending, binding, and sewing. The well-grounded Akita-sugi has amazingly smooth touch.

After using, use a soft sponge and warm water to remove the stain, and wipe moisture carefully. It is crucial to dry the lunch box completely for long-use. Be careful not to expose to direct sunlight or use a dishwasher.

With just a little care, the lunch box of Mage-Wappa would be a useful tool for your life.