Bento

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See also: Fannish Cooking
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A bento is a Japanese homemade or take-out meal that is served cold in multicompartment boxes. These boxes are sometimes referred to as bento boxes. They can easily be transported to school, workplace etc. where the meal usually serves as lunch.

Characters eating and sharing their bento is a trope not uncommon in anime and manga media.[1][2]

Many fans in and outside Japan use their bento as a platform for showing off their fannish interests. This style is called Kyaraben (character bento).[3]

The preparing and documenting of bento might be described as a fandom in its own right. Rice is a traditional ingredient and Onigiri (rice balls)[4] are often shaped into popular characters, animals or plants. Other ingredients might be treated in the same way.

Some fans enjoy making art for themed bento boxes without actually preparing the meal.

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