5 Beautiful Japanese Tools to Upgrade Your Daily Rituals
- Michael Zislis
- May 1
- 4 min read
Ever feel like your kitchen drawer or lunch routine could use a little soul?
In Japan, daily objects are more than just tools—they’re miniature rituals. From the silent poetry of a perfectly folded furoshiki to the snap of a lacquered bento box lid, these items carry stories, philosophy, and centuries of craft.
Now, thanks to our friends at Bento&co, these beautiful everyday items are available to you—with a special $10 off code for orders over $30. Whether you’re meal prepping, curating your home coffee corner, or gifting something unforgettable, here are 5 of our favorite Japanese items—and how to make them your own.
In Japan: The word shikiri means “divider,” and it perfectly captures the elegant simplicity of Japanese design. This bento box is a modern take on tradition—built with clean lines, smart compartments, and just the right capacity for a satisfying midday meal. It represents Japan’s deep respect for balance, proportion, and presentation—even in something as everyday as lunch.
How You Can Use It: Think of it as your daily dose of calm. Whether you’re meal prepping for work, packing lunch for a hike, or organizing snacks for a road trip, this sleek 870ml box keeps flavors (and your day) in order. Dishwasher-safe and stylish enough for the office, it’s a sustainable swap for disposables that actually makes you look forward to lunch.
In Japan: This furoshiki features a beloved parody by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, one of the most influential ukiyo-e (woodblock print) artists of the 19th century. Known for his mischievous spirit and love of cats, Kuniyoshi reimagined Hiroshige’s iconic “Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido”—a series depicting the journey from Edo to Kyoto—by replacing the travelers with playful felines in human-like poses. The result is both hilarious and historically rich, capturing Edo-period satire, artistry, and Japan’s enduring love affair with cats.
How You Can Use It: At just under 19 inches square, this is the perfect size for wrapping a bento box, bottle of wine, or lunch container—but it also works beautifully as a bandana, wall hanging, or gift wrap. For Japanophiles, art lovers, and cat fans alike, this piece isn’t just functional—it’s a conversation starter you can carry anywhere.
In Japan: Oshizushi—or pressed sushi—is a centuries-old technique originating in the Kansai region. Traditionally, layers of seasoned rice and toppings were packed into wooden molds to preserve freshness and create beautiful, compact meals. These molds, often carved from Hinoki cedar, are prized not only for their function but for their aromatic, antibacterial wood that brings a subtle natural fragrance to food.
How You Can Use It: Think beyond sushi. Use this mold to craft elegant pressed sandwiches with layers of bread, ham, pickles, cheese, or roasted vegetables—perfect for picnics, charcuterie spreads, or lunchboxes. It also works for rice bars, onigiri, or even layered desserts. Whether you're into smoked salmon oshizushi or sourdough-stacked panini bites, this mold adds a ritualistic, tactile beauty to your kitchen routine.
In Japan: Furikake is a beloved pantry staple in Japanese homes—used to sprinkle over rice, noodles, or even tofu. But Kyo Rayu brings a distinct twist: it’s infused with Kyoto-style chili oil, blending umami with subtle heat and a touch of elegance. Regional specialties like this reflect Japan’s deep reverence for seasonal, local flavor.
How You Can Use It: Shake it over rice bowls, ramen, roasted vegetables, avocado toast—or even popcorn—for an instant upgrade. It’s an easy way to add authentic Japanese flavor to everyday dishes. This is one of those tiny pantry heroes that makes every meal feel just a little more elevated. Makes a great gift for food lovers or spice explorers.
In Japan: Tamagoyaki—the delicate, folded omelet—is a humble staple in Japanese kitchens, but mastering it is considered a small art. The Chitose Tamagoyaki Pan is crafted in Sanjo, a city in Niigata Prefecture with centuries of blacksmithing heritage. Often called the “Pittsburgh of Japan” by JPN Guides’ own founder (who once lived nearby), Sanjo rose to prominence in the Edo period as a hub for toolmakers and swordsmiths. Its legacy lives on today in precision-forged cookware, blades, and artisan tools passed from generation to generation.
How You Can Use It: Don’t be fooled by the shape—this pan is a kitchen workhorse. Its iron body and squared sides allow for even cooking and crisp edges, ideal not only for tamagoyaki but for grilled cheeses, fried rice, seared tofu, or breakfast sandwiches. Treated with care, it will last a lifetime—and just might become the most elegant pan you own.
When you shop using our exclusive coupon code LXZ-EKMA5TQ, you’ll get ¥1,500 JPY (approx. $10 USD) off any order over ¥4,500 JPY (~$30) at Bento&co. But more importantly, you’ll be directly supporting the skilled makers, artists, and small studios keeping Japan’s heritage alive—while also fueling our mission at JPN Guides to bring these treasures to a global stage.
We’re deeply grateful for your support and excited for the collaborations, discoveries, and creative projects still to come. Stay close—we're just getting started.
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