Keep it long, treasure it long.

Stylish and slim lunch box of Mage-Wappa

MICHI BENTO BOX is a slim lunch box made of Akita-sugi, the cedar tree. 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.

Traditional crafts that harness the power of nature

MICHI BENTO BOX is designed by the brand Odate Kougeisha and the architect Mr. Yuki Tanaka. The lunch box has a line on the surface with a diagonal lid that makes itself look stylish. It is so slim that the lunch box indicates the high technique of bending wood.

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 maintenance and one life

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.