Biz Stream S2019E02 - The Charm of Japan's Bento Box Meals

This episode introduces one of the lesser known types of Japanese cuisine - bento. These portable boxed meals feature partitions and compartments each offering tiny and well-balanced portions of tasty treats. A unique local version of bento known as "ekiben" that used to only be available at local train stations has been slowly on the decline as the rural areas surrounding the stations shrink. This challenge has forced local makers to become increasingly creative with their meals in order to have a chance at survival. Annual events showcasing these creations are also giving them a chance to show off their skills and to find new clients. While local popularity might be on the decline, bento box lunches have started to become popular with foreigners. In the tradition-steeped city of Kyoto, we found a shop selling bento boxes being run by a man from France! Join us as we look at how bento meals are evolving as Japan's population and economy continues to change.