Traditional Crafts

Hakata Magemono Wooden BoxesWoodwork/bamboo work

Hakata magemono is a useful type of wooden box that people in Japan have used in their daily lives since ancient times. These boxes are made by heating thin boards of cedar or cypress to bend, then they are fastened together with strips of cherry. They make particularly good containers for cooked rice as they soak up excess moisture and maintain an optimal humidity. This is why they continue to be the preferred choice among many Japanese chefs today, such as sushi chefs. They will also last for 50 years if used properly, making them great value for money. When the railroads first opened in Japan in the first half of the 20th century, there was an increased demand for train lunches, and Hakata magemono became widely used as lunch boxes.