Chara-ben (Character Lunch Box) Making

In Japan, the art of chara-ben, or character lunch boxes, has captivated foodies worldwide. These meticulously crafted, visually stunning meals feature intricate depictions of beloved characters, animals, or whimsical scenes. Enthusiasts meticulously cut, mold, and color their ingredients to bring these edible masterpieces to life. While the creative process can be time-consuming, the final result is a delightful and delicious lunchbox that’s sure to bring joy to the recipient and onlookers alike. For those eager to explore this unique culinary art form, a private, hands-on experience awaits…

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Contents hide

1 Overview of Character Bento

2 Meeting Point and Nearest Station

3 Start Time and Duration

4 Accessibility and Transportation

5 Private Tour and Participation

6 Cancellation Policy

7 What to Expect

8 Additional Information

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

• Charaben is an elaborately designed Japanese lunchbox featuring cute, artistic depictions of characters, animals, or whimsical scenes.
• The activity takes place at SELVA Kitchen Studio in Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, and lasts until returning to the meeting point.
• Participants will learn techniques like cutting, molding, and coloring food to create personalized, visually stunning lunch boxes.
• The experience is private with only your group, ensuring a personalized and intimate process of crafting the Charaben.
• Cancellation policy includes a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, and a complimentary drink is provided.

Overview of Character Bento

Character bento, or charaben, are elaborately designed Japanese lunchboxes featuring cute, artistic depictions of popular characters, animals, or other whimsical scenes. These intricate creations aren’t just for sustenance, but also for entertainment and self-expression.

Charaben enthusiasts spend hours meticulously crafting the various components, using a range of techniques like cutting, molding, and coloring the food to achieve the desired look. The result is a visually stunning lunch that brings joy to the recipient and onlookers alike.

Charaben making has become a popular hobby in Japan, allowing people to showcase their creativity and attention to detail while preparing a delightful meal.

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Meeting Point and Nearest Station

The meeting point for the character bento making activity is SELVA Kitchen Studio, located on the 2nd floor at 1-19-9 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo. The nearest station to the studio is also SELVA Kitchen Studio, situated in the same building. Getting to the activity location couldn’t be more convenient, with the meeting spot just steps away from the closest train station.

Meeting Point	Nearest Station	Accessibility
SELVA Kitchen Studio, 2nd floor, 1-19-9 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo	SELVA Kitchen Studio, 2nd floor, 1-19-9 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo	Not wheelchair accessible, Stroller accessible

Start Time and Duration

As per the event details, the character bento making activity commences at 11:00 am and concludes upon returning to the meeting point at SELVA Kitchen Studio. The entire experience lasts for the duration of the activity.

The activity starts promptly at 11:00 am, so participants are encouraged to arrive on time to make the most of the experience.

The duration of the character bento making lasts until the group returns to the starting point at SELVA Kitchen Studio.

Guests can expect to spend the entirety of the activity engaged in the creative and hands-on process of crafting their personalized lunch boxes.

Accessibility and Transportation

While the character bento making activity is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible, allowing families with young children to participate. The SELVA Kitchen Studio, located on the 2nd floor, is conveniently near public transportation, making it easy for participants to reach the meeting point.

Transportation Options	Accessibility
Public Transportation	Yes
Stroller Accessible	Yes
Wheelchair Accessible	No
Parking Available	Limited
Rideshare/Taxi	Recommended

The proximity to the Osaki station and the stroller-friendly environment make this character bento making experience accessible for a wide range of participants, ensuring a fun and inclusive activity for all.

Private Tour and Participation

This character bento making activity is a private tour, with only your group participating. Participants will have the undivided attention of the instructor and can customize their creations to their liking without having to share the experience with other groups.

The private nature of the activity ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to interact directly with the instructor and focus on your own bento box.

You’ll be the only group in the session, enabling you to fully learn about the creative process without distractions.

The exclusivity of the tour allows for a more intimate and tailored experience, catering to your specific preferences and dietary requirements.

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Cancellation Policy

Customers can cancel their character bento making experience up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, if they cancel less than 24 hours before the scheduled time, they won’t receive a refund for the amount paid.

Plus, any changes made within 24 hours of the experience won’t be accepted. This policy aims to ensure the experience runs smoothly and allows the company to accommodate other customers.

It’s important to note that the experience requires a minimum number of participants. If this minimum isn’t met, the company may cancel the experience, offering a different date or a full refund.

What to Expect

Participants can expect to create unique character-themed bento (lunch box) meals during the 2-hour activity. They’ll select their preferred character design and learn how to assemble the bento box using various ingredients, creating a visually appealing and delicious lunch. The event includes drinks to complement the meal.

The bento-making experience offers:

An opportunity to unleash your creativity and bring your favorite characters to life through intricate food arrangements
Guidance from experienced instructors who’ll teach you the art of bento box making
A chance to enjoy a freshly prepared, Instagram-worthy meal that you can proudly share with friends and family.

Additional Information

Attendees receive a complimentary drink to savor alongside their handcrafted bento creation.

An apron and all necessary materials are provided for the duration of the 2-hour workshop, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Instructors demonstrate the techniques needed to shape, arrange, and decorate the bento box, guiding participants through the process step-by-step.

The activity takes place at the SELVA Kitchen Studio, conveniently located just a short walk from Osaki Station.

Though the workshop isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers are permitted. Infants must sit on laps during the class.

Cancelations made within 24 hours of the start time are non-refundable, so participants are advised to plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The activity doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, the tour mentions that infants must sit on laps, suggesting the experience may not be suitable for very young children.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food Items to Customize?

Participants can bring their own food items to customize their character bento boxes. The experience provider allows participants to bring additional ingredients to personalize their creations as part of the lunch box making activity.

Is the Class Conducted in English or Japanese?

The class is conducted in English to accommodate international participants. The instructors provide English guidance and translation throughout the bento-making experience, ensuring all attendees can fully participate and enjoy the activity.

Are Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Accommodated?

The activity accommodates dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests should notify the provider of any dietary needs when booking to ensure they can be accommodated. The provider will work with participants to modify the menu as needed.

Can Participants Take Their Bento Boxes Home After the Class?

Participants can take their bento boxes home after the class. The experience includes the creation and packaging of the lunch boxes, which attendees can keep as a souvenir from the session.