This is a handled lunch basket made from white bamboo.

We introduce the Medium 2-tier type of handled lunch basket,
made from white bamboo—green Madake that has been heat-treated
and sun-dried to remove its natural oils and color.

＊Click here to see the Medium 1-tier, Large 1-tier, and Large 2-tier types.

When filled with rice balls and side dishes across both tiers,
the basket holds about enough for three to four people.

For this example, we lined the bottom and sides of the basket with cooking paper,
then packed rice balls, fried chicken, potato salad, and simmered vegetables.

Even when using a liner, moisture from juicy foods or fruits may still leak through the basket.
We recommend using divider cups inside the basket to hold wet items and help keep things tidy.

Bamboo baskets offer gentle breathability, which helps prevent moisture buildup—
one of their most appealing qualities.

You can place food directly into the basket,
but using a liner such as cooking paper, parchment, kyōgi (wooden sheets), or plastic wrap
helps keep the basket clean and makes it easier to use.

After use, rinse the basket with water using a tawashi brush or similar scrubber,
shake off excess water, open the lid, and allow it to dry thoroughly.
If you used a liner and the basket remains mostly clean,
you can simply remove any crumbs or residue,
then leave the lid open and let it air-dry well.

If oil from fried foods has transferred to the bamboo,
you may use a small amount of mild detergent.
Be sure to rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any soap.

The weaving pattern beautifully showcases the natural elegance of white bamboo.
Even when empty, the basket is visually pleasing.

Beyond its role as a lunch basket,
it also works well as a home first-aid kit or a sewing box.

You might even use the upper and lower tiers for entirely different purposes—
that’s one more way to enjoy its versatility.

With a built-in handle, there’s no need to place it inside another bag.
You can simply carry it from room to room, or take it outside with ease.
This is a basket that fits many situations.
We hope you’ll enjoy using it for years to come.

Bamboo Craft in Kagoshima

As you drive through Kagoshima Prefecture,
you’ll come across an astonishing number of bamboo groves—so many that it’s almost overwhelming.
Kagoshima is one of Japan’s leading regions in terms of bamboo forest area.
It truly is a “bamboo kingdom.”

Roughly half of these forests are filled with Moso bamboo,
known for its thick, powerful stalks that seem to radiate vitality.
Because Moso bamboo is dense and firm, it takes great effort to split it into fine strips.
For that reason, it’s often used to make utensils such as spatulas, spoons, and forks.

On the other hand, baskets like the ones shown here—
traditionally used for bento or tofu—as well as strainers and other woven items,
are usually made from Madake bamboo.

Compared to Moso, Madake has thinner walls, making it easier to produce long,
slender strips of bamboo for weaving.

Bamboo craft has long been practiced in Kagoshima.
Although the number of people involved in the craft has declined in recent years,
it still has more enthusiasts than in many other regions.
Group activities and exhibitions are held regularly, showing that the culture remains vibrant.

Whether amateur or professional,
many people in the area continue to create baskets of impressive quality and craftsmanship.

Please note:
This item ships from Japan.
As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country.
These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.