IS JAPAN COOL? DISCOVER
1. Artfully prepared boxed lunch (bento) containing food that captures the playful look of anime characters, cute animals, etc.
2. To faithfully recreate these characters, mothers ingeniously combine a wide variety of foods and ingredients. Naturally, each bento becomes a nutritious masterpiece.
3. Character bento shows a Japanese mother’s love for her child. She lavishes time and care on preparation, hoping that her little one will love food and appreciate lunch.
4. As the child grows older, such bento creations decrease in frequency. However, advanced techniques and clever concepts are passed along by enthusiastic new mothers via blogs.
5. For dietetic reasons, food artists who design character bento are gradually introducing this delightful cuisine to the U.S. and Europe.
