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Best Japanese Cookware and Kitchenware

Japanese cookware, kitchenware and appliances are known for their high quality and attention to detail. Here are the best traditional and modern Japanese manufactured cookware, kitchenware approved by picky Japanese customers.

Best Japanese Rice Cookers and Brands

Did you know cooking rice is super easy? Pick the right rice cooker for you and master how to cook restaurant grade rice. All you have to do is push the button and the rice cooker will do all the work! These are the best-selling rice cookers we recommend. Rice cooker is one of the most popular Japanese cookwares in the U.S., and Japanese absolutely use rice cookers made in Japan.

Zojirushi

Rice Cooker (3 Cup)

Rice Cooker (3 Cup)

A 3-cup rice cooker with a glass lid. Comes with a stainless steel steaming tray and an automatic keep-warm function.
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Tiger

Panasonic

Best Hot Pots

Here are the Japanese hot pots and we recommend. Nabe, is a traditional Japanese dish cooked in a hot pot placed right on the dinner table. This is great way to cook with both friends and family. Japanese hot pots are traditionally made from clay or iron cast, but modern types are made from stainless steel or nonstick materials.

Best Takoyaki Pans & Tools

These are the must-have items to make takoyaki. These pans are portable so they’re perfect for dinner parties at home, in your yard or even on a camping trip. You can be creative and make your pancake balls savory or sweet!

Teppanyaki Oil Brush

Teppanyaki Oil Brush

A cooking oil brush with a wooden handle and a cotton brush. Great for BBQ, takoyaki, teppanyaki, or yakitori.
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Best Japanese Kitchen Knives

Japanese kitchen knives are known for using the best quality steel. Just like Japanese swords, the blade is thinner, razor-sharp and light weight. They’re perfect for cutting and getting a nice clean slice, but not for chopping bones.

Kitchenware designed by Sori Yanagi

Sori Yanagi was one of the most famous industorial designer in Japan. His simple, beautiful and functional design is very popular around the world.

Best Bento Boxes

Not sure which bento boxes to choose from? From traditional Japanese to stylish stainless steel or one with your kid’s favorite cartoon character, we give you the perfect bento box options for you, whether you need it every day or for outdoor excursions.

Plastic

These plastic bento boxes are perfect for kids or people who want a light weight bento box. Just keep in mind, these Japanese style bento boxes are much smaller in size, but if you pack wisely and you can fit a well-balanced meal inside it. Most plastic bento boxes are dish washer and microwave safe.

Stainless Steel

If you don’t want to use a plastic bento box, then upgrade to the stylish stainless steel bento box. It’s sturdy and also has a sleek look which is perfect for both men and women. It’s great for everyday lunch or camping and comes in all shapes and sizes. Stainless steel bento boxes are dish washer safe but do not put them in the microwave!

Traditional – Wappa –

Going for natural and authentic Japanese bento box? This wappa bento box is for you. Wappa is a technique that involves bending cypress wood into a round shape. The cypress wood is good for keeping the moisture out and keeping the rice fresh, and the rounded wood makes a great box. This is not dish washer safe or microwave safe.

Traditional – Shokado –

These traditional shokado bento boxes are perfect for Japanese themed dinner parties. They will make your food look delicious and classy. Shokado bento boxes come in different sizes with different size compartments so you can fit a variety of dishes in the box. Most of the shokado bento boxes are not dish washer or microwave safe.

For Kids

Do you have a picky eater in the house? Why not try these cute bento boxes that come in all sorts of shapes such as cartoon characters, cars, or animals? With these bento boxes your child will look forward to meal-time. Some are not dish washer safe or microwave safe, so be sure to check!

Food Jar

Whether for lunch or a picnic, if you want warm food and you are in an environment without a stove or microwave, then these insulated thermo jars are great. They keep your food warm or cold for several hours and are very durable. If you ride your bike to work or are into the outdoors, then look into these thermos jars.

Useful Tools For “Kawaii” Bento

Making bento is really fun. These tools and containers will make it easier for you to pack your lunch. Your kids will love the colorful containers and the food cutters that make food into animal or car shapes. Have a fun “Kawaii” bento day!

Bento Cookbooks

Here are some Japanese bento cookbooks that we recommend. Japanese bento lunches are cute, decorative and healthy. These cook books include bento recipes that are easy-to-make, delicious even when eaten cold, and give safe bento packing tips.

Best Japanese Cookbooks

Best Movies or TV Series of Japanese Food