Magewappa, which has recently become popular on social media, is spreading across a wide range of generations, from university students to seniors.
As the boom spreads, various types and price ranges have become available.
That's why, when buying for the first time, you might wonder, "Which one should I get...?"
This time, for those considering their magewappa debut, we will introduce the basic selection tips that will help you say, "If you keep these in mind, you'll be fine!"
Choosing Option 1: Finish
There are two main types of magewappa: "urethane finish" and "unfinished (plain wood)."
If you want to start using it easily, a urethane finish is recommended.
You can use it just like a plastic lunch box, and you don't have to worry about packing fried foods like karaage or soupy dishes like oyakodon.
The good news is that there's less concern about stains or darkening.
Cleaning is also easy: just wash it with mild detergent and a sponge. No special care is required just because it's magewappa.
To be able to use a magewappa every day without fuss is the beauty of a urethane finish.
Choosing Option 2: Size
The next common concern is the size. Magewappa has a certain depth, so it holds more than it appears.
Below is a guideline for the amount of rice each size holds. Please use it as a reference when you are unsure.
Around 480ml Recommended for those who eat small portions or women who prefer a light lunch. It fits 150g of rice (about one small bowl) + several side dishes perfectly.
500-600ml For women who want to eat a satisfying meal. There's plenty of room for 200g of rice (one bowl) and several side dishes, and it can also accommodate donburi dishes.
700ml or more Easily holds 200-300g of rice (a large serving). Perfect for growing children or those who want a hearty meal.
By the way, with urethane-finished magewappa, you don't have to worry about leaks. You can safely use it for donburi lunch boxes too.
Choosing Option 3: Shape
The shape that comes to mind when you hear "magewappa" is surprisingly different for everyone. Basically, there are three types: "oval," "round," and "rectangular*."
*Rectangular shapes do not involve bending wood, so strictly speaking, they are not magewappa.
The oval shape is incredibly versatile. Whatever you pack in it, it naturally looks delicious. It's great for daily lunches, donburi, and picnics. For beginners, this is highly recommended.
The round shape is appealing for its cute visual. It's especially perfect for donburi dishes.
The rectangular shape is practical for its ease of partitioning and packing. It can also be stored compactly after use.
Here's an interesting anecdote.
When I asked a craftsman, "Which shape is the most difficult to make?", the surprising answer was "oval."
While uniform pressure is applied to the entire wood when bending a round shape, pressure tends to concentrate at both ends of an oval shape, making it prone to cracking.
(Rest assured that once the product is complete, it is durable. This is strictly about the "manufacturing process.")
Choosing Option 4: Origin
Magewappa are made all over Japan, as well as in other countries including China.
What you should pay attention to is the "Made in Japan" label. In reality, there are cases where products manufactured overseas are partially processed in Japan and then sold as "Made in Japan."
If you're going to buy one, you want to choose a reliable product, right?
In such cases, looking for the "Odate Magewappa" label is recommended. This is a trademark recognized by the Odate Magewappa Cooperative Association, which guarantees that the product is made by artisans in Japan.
Choose a Magewappa you'll want to use every day
Magewappa is not only beautiful in appearance but also embodies history and the craftsmanship of artisans. Not limited to Odate in Akita, magewappa from various regions across Japan each have their own unique culture and techniques.
The process of finding a lunch box that makes you think, "This is the one," is quite enjoyable.
Magewappa blends naturally into daily life, yet it embodies Japanese history and the handiwork of artisans. We hope you find a masterpiece that you can use every day for a long time.
