Takenaka Kitchen The rush of high economic growth and a new found passion for fashion inspired many Japanese people to bring their lunches to work for the first time in Ishikawa, Japan, 1925. Recognizing this trend, Takenaka soon began producing beautifully crafted bento boxes, hand-painted on the outside with colorful lacquer for the people to carry proudly. For over a hundred years, they've produced quality bento boxes with the aim to enhance meal time and create a more sustainable future.