Cute Seasonal Bento Workshop with Japanese Grandma in Nagoya

Turn lunchtime into a creative Japanese cooking experience as you learn to make a colorful seasonal bento box with Grandma Junko. Beautifully arranged and carefully balanced, bento boxes are a beloved part of everyday life in Japan and a fun way to explore Japanese home cooking. For centuries, bento boxes have brought together flavor, nutrition, and presentation in one compact meal. A traditional bento often includes rice, vegetables, meat or seafood, with each ingredient thoughtfully prepared and arranged. From character-inspired lunches to elegant seasonal designs, Japan’s bento culture is known for both creativity and attention to detail. Your host, Grandma Junko, was born and raised in Nagoya and has spent years sharing her passion for healthy Japanese cooking. After opening her own natural food store, she began teaching cooking classes to guests from around the world. Warm and welcoming, she puts great care into every dish she prepares and loves introducing visitors to seasonal Japanese ingredients and traditions. Each class follows a seasonal theme that changes throughout the year, so the bento design and ingredients vary depending on when you join. Spring classes from March to May feature cherry blossom-inspired designs. Summer classes from June to August celebrate Tanabata, the Star Festival. Autumn classes from September to November highlight colorful fall leaves, while winter classes from December to February feature cheerful snowman-themed bentos. Alongside your handmade bento, you’ll also enjoy miso soup filled with seasonal vegetables carefully selected by Grandma Junko, who proudly describes herself as a vegetable sommelier.