12 Best Japanese Thermal Lunch Box 2023 | Japanese Insulated Lunch Box Reviews

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Keep your lunch fresh and hot for hours with the best Japanese thermal lunch box. Most of them are even microwave safe so you can heat it up at your workplace. 

Gone are the days when people would pack their lunch in a brown bag to keep it fresh. These days, it is time for innovative thermal bento lunch boxes. A thermal lunch box helps keep your food fresh when you finally sit down to have your lunch. It also keeps your food at the right temperature for several hours. 

I love the fact that I can quickly reheat it at my office. And since most Japanese lunch boxes have multiple compartments like a bento box – it’s also great for portion control. So my lunch contains a little of everything. 

Best Japanese Thermal Lunch Box — Quick Summary

Best Japanese Thermal Lunch Box	Link
Original BentoHeaven Bento Box	View On Amazon
Japanese Landscape Insulated Lunch Box	View On Amazon
Insulated Bento Box with Divider	View On Amazon
Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Lunch Jar	View On Amazon
Komax Lunchmate Bento Lunch Box with Insulated Bag	View On Amazon
Mr. Dakai Thermal Lunch Box	View On Amazon
Japanese Thermal Lunch Box with Handle	View On Amazon
Zojirushi Thermal Insulation Lunch Box	View On Amazon
YBOBK HOME Bento Box with Insulated Bag	View On Amazon

If you have kids, Japanese thermal lunch boxes are a great option for kids to take to school as well. 

The best Japanese Thermal Lunch box helps keep your food fresh for hours until you are ready to devour it. There are so many options and styles to buy from, choosing from which can be a daunting task. To help you, we have compiled a list of the best Japanese thermal lunch boxes, which we are sure you will love. 

• Related: Best Japanese Bento Box

Continue reading to check out some of the best ones out there:

Top Japanese Thermal Lunch Box

Original BentoHeaven Bento Box

The first best Japanese thermal lunch box is the BentoHaven Bento box. This is one of the most classic Japanese lunch boxes that look classy, sophisticated, and high end.

Despite all of that, the lunch box is highly affordable and convenient. It has a modern, minimalistic design that looks uber-stylish. The airtight design makes it leak-proof, keeping your lunchtime mess-free. The airtight design also keeps the food fresh for longer. 

I love this thermal lunch box as it’s free of chemicals and doesn’t change the taste of food. I also like it because of it’s minimalistic design that gives me the feel of Japan.

The box is safe to use in the microwave, dishwasher, and freezer. You can also prepare your meals in advance and freeze them in the lunch box. When it is time to eat, simply pop it inside the microwave.

The heating time is considerably reduced in this lunch box, thanks to the silicone sealed lids and ventilation caps. 

Key Features:

• Classy, sophisticated, and high-end lunch box that comes at an affordable price
• Modern, minimalistic design that looks stylish
• Leakproof, so you can eat without making a mess at the desk
• Keeps food fresh for longer
• Safe to use in microwave, freezer, and dishwasher
• Reduced heating time because of the silicone sealed lids and ventilation caps

Ratings: 

• Material: 9/10
• Insulation: 9/10
• Design: 8.5/10
• Affordability: 9.5/10

Japanese Landscape Insulated Lunch Box

This is one of the best Japanese thermal lunch box out there. Usually, it is difficult for lunch boxes to be completely insulated, whether it is made of metal, wood, or plastic. However, this lunch box overcomes that and ensures proper insulation for your food. 

This lunch box has insulated walls and is quite compact and easy to carry. Any cold food item that you keep inside it will remain very cool for a much longer time than what you would get with other lunch boxes. This feature sets it apart from the rest.

The only downside that I found in this lunch box is that you can’t really keep unpacked food as it’s just the cover so you’ll need to buy something for the inside. Otherwise I like this one to keep soft drink cans etc.

The simple lunch box does not have any fancy compartments; it is what you would call a traditional lunch box. The insulated walls are what make this lunch box so alluring.

Key Features:

• One of the best insulated Japanese lunch boxes out there
• Comes with insulated walls
• Keeps cold meals colder for a much longer time than in other lunch boxes
• Simple yet innovative lunch box

Ratings: 

• Material: 7.5/10
• Insulation: 9.5/10
• Design: 9.5/10
• Affordability: 9/10

Insulated Bento Box with Divider

This compact bento box is a great innovation as it is easy and convenient to carry. This makes it one of the best Japanese thermal lunch boxes. It has an airtight and leak-proof design that prevents spillage and mess.

It also keeps your food fresh for a long time. It also comes with an adjustable divider that lets you control your portions. The vent hole is adjustable and locks in all the freshness of the food.

The box is durable and safe to use in the microwave, dishwasher, and freezer. Oh, this Japanese thermos lunch box is my favourite because of its look and also how well it keeps the food safe in it. It’s durable which is another great thing I found as I have had this Japanese insulated lunch bag for a while now.

Key Features:

• Easy and convenient to carry
• Airtight container that keeps the freshness locked in for a long time
• Comes with an adjustable divider that lets you portion your meals
• Adjustable vent hole maintains the freshness of the food
• Durable
• Safe for microwave, dishwasher, and freezer

Ratings: 

• Material: 9.5/10
• Insulation: 9.5/10
• Design: 9.5/10
• Affordability: 8.5/10

Bento & Co. Classic Stainless Steel Bento Box

The Bento & Co. Classic Stainless Steel Bento Box is a high-quality, leak-proof lunch box that is perfect for adults and kids. It is made of durable stainless steel and has a classic Japanese design. The box comes with 3 removable containers and a divider, which allows you to pack a variety of food items. The containers are also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy.

I really like the Bento & Co. Classic Stainless Steel Bento Box because it is sturdy and leak-proof. I have packed it with soup, rice, and vegetables, and it has never leaked. I also like that the box comes with 3 removable containers, which gives me a lot of flexibility in terms of what I can pack for lunch. The containers are also dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Overall, I am very happy with the Bento & Co. Classic Stainless Steel Bento Box. It is a high-quality, leak-proof lunch box that is perfect for adults and kids. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a new lunch box.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Bento & Co. Classic Stainless Steel Bento Box:

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel construction
• Leak-proof
• Comes with 3 removable containers and a divider
• Dishwasher-safe
• Classic Japanese design

Cons:

• Can be a bit heavy
• Not as compact as some other bento boxes

Skater Original Vacuum Insulated Bento Box

The Skater Original Vacuum Insulated Bento Box is a high-quality, leak-proof lunch box that is perfect for adults and kids. It is made of durable stainless steel with a vacuum insulation, which helps to keep food hot or cold for up to 6 hours. The box comes with 3 removable containers, a divider, and a chopstick case.

I really like the Skater Original Vacuum Insulated Bento Box because it is sturdy and leak-proof. I have packed it with soup, rice, and vegetables, and it has never leaked. I also like that the box comes with 3 removable containers, which gives me a lot of flexibility in terms of what I can pack for lunch. The containers are also dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Skater Original Vacuum Insulated Bento Box:

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel construction
• Vacuum insulation keeps food hot or cold for up to 6 hours
• Leak-proof
• Comes with 3 removable containers, a divider, and a chopstick case
• Dishwasher-safe

Cons:

• Can be a bit heavy
• Not as compact as some other bento boxes

Ecolunchbox Three-in-One Stainless Steel Bento Box

The Ecolunchbox Three-in-One Stainless Steel Bento Box is a great option for anyone looking for a durable, leak-proof, and eco-friendly lunch box. It is made of high-quality stainless steel and is free of BPA, PVC, and lead. 

The box comes with 3 removable containers and a divider, which allows you to pack a variety of food items. It is also microwave- and dishwasher-safe.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Ecolunchbox Three-in-One Stainless Steel Bento Box:

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel construction
• Leak-proof
• BPA-free, PVC-free, and lead-free
• Comes with 3 removable containers and a divider
• Microwave- and dishwasher-safe
• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• Can be a bit heavy
• Not as compact as some other bento boxes

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Lunch Jar

This is yet another insulated lunch box that comes with three food jars that are meant for both hot and cold food. This best Japanese thermal lunch box has a vacuum-insulated stainless steel construction that keeps your food warm. Additionally, it comes with a carrying bag that makes it convenient for you to carry it.

All the lunch bowls are microwavable and come in three different sizes, perfect for your different portions. It is a great lunch box that maintains the temperature of your food until you are ready to eat. Definitely one of the best Japanese thermal lunch box.

Key Features:

• Insulated lunch box that comes with three food bowls
• The bowls are microwavable and come in different sizes
• Vacuum-insulated stainless steel construction that keeps food warm
• Comes with a carrying bag for convenience 
• Maintains the temperature of your food

Komax Lunchmate Bento Lunch Box with Insulated Bag

This is a compact lunch box that comes with its own carrying bag, making it convenient for you to travel with it. This best Japanese thermal lunch box is designed like a bento box and comes with two boxes and a separate box that includes chopsticks. The containers are leakproof and keep you from creating a mess. 

The bag that it comes with is what steals the show; it is an insulated bag that is specially designed to maintain the temperature of the food. It helps keep the food warm and cold, depending on what you are carrying. The boxes are freezer and microwave safe.

Key Features:

• Compact lunch box bundle that comes with its own carrying case
• Designed like a bento box
• Comes with two leak proof boxes and a separate box containing chopsticks
• The bag is insulated and helps keep food hot or cold
• Boxes are freezer and microwave safe

Mr. Dakai Thermal Lunch Box

This is quite a large lunch box that has three boxes that can be used individually or stacked together. The pretty pastel shades look appealing, but it is actually the innovation that breaks the deal. 

This best Japanese thermal lunch box kit is leakproof and insulated, keeping your food warm or cold for about three hours. The bag that comes along with it is also insulated, so if you use it in conjunction with the boxes, the effect is much better. 

Key Features:

• Large lunch box with three stackable lunch boxes in pretty pastel shades
• Boxes can be stacked to create a layer or used individually
• Leak proof and insulated boxes
• Comes with an insulated carrying bag
• Keeps food warm or cold for hours

Japanese Thermal Lunch Box with Handle

This is a two-layer thermal lunch box that is made from stainless steel. It is non-toxic and odorless. Also, the design and the material make it a durable and sturdy option. This best Japanese thermal lunch box is designed with a handle, to make it easy for you to carry it around. The insulated lunch box can keep your food warm for up to seven hours. Isn’t that a great deal?

The pretty finish and the stylish design makes this lunch box a desirable option. 

Key Features:

• Two-layer thermal lunch box made from stainless steel
• Non-toxic and odorless
• Durable and sturdy design
• Designed with a handle to make it convenient to carry
• Insulated lunch box keeps food warm for up to seven hours
• Pretty and beautiful finish

Zojirushi Thermal Insulation Lunch Box

Although very affordable, this lunch box is a pretty great option for kids and adults alike. The insulated lunch boxes come in vibrant colors and you also get chopsticks in a container. This best Japanese thermal lunch box set comes with three boxes that are great for carrying a variety of items.

It comes with a lunch bag that is again, very vibrant and colorful. The bag can also be used as a placemat, making it a versatile item. It is also very easy to clean. Your food will remain hot for up to six hours.

Key Features:

• Affordable and pretty lunch box set
• Comes with three vibrant and insulated lunch box
• It also comes with chopsticks and its container
• Colorful carrying bag that also works as a placemat
• Food remains hot for up to six hours

YBOBK HOME Bento Box with Insulated Bag

This is again a great option for an insulated lunch box. The interior of the box is made from high-quality stainless steel that is BPA-free. It also never rusts or retains flavors or scents. The lid of this best Japanese thermal lunch box lunch box has a heavy-duty silicone seal that prevents leakage or spillage. It comes with an insulated bag that is made of felt fabric and the interior is lined with food-grade aluminum foil. 

Key Features:

• Lunch boxes are made of high-quality stainless steel
• BPA-free
• Never rusts or retain scents or flavors
• Lid comes with a heavy-duty silicone seal that prevents food from leaking or spilling
• Insulated carrying bag that keeps food hot or cold

Which Bento Boxes are perfect for portion control?

Bento boxes are usually small and are meant for controlled portions of a large number of items. However, having reviewed several Japanese bento boxes the Komax Lunchmate Bento Lunch Box Kit is the best bento box for portion control, and here’s why:

The Komax lunch mate Bento Lunchmate box kit features two compartments. The upper compartment further features two more compartments that can fit inside the box. Since this bento box comes with multiple sizes of compartments, it’s a great option for portion control. You can have a mix of food items in your lunch box in decent-sized portions. It also contains chopsticks and compartments and is microwave-safe so it’s convenient to reheat food as well.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Japanese Thermal Lunch Box

Choosing the right Japanese thermal lunch box, also known as a bento box or a thermal lunch jar, involves considering various factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

• Determine Your Needs:
  • Think about your intended use for the lunch box. Do you need it for daily lunches at work or school, picnics, or travel?
  • Frequency of Use: Consider how often you plan to use the lunch box. Is it for daily use at work or school, occasional picnics, or for specific situations like travel or camping? Different use cases may require different features.
  • Meal Type: Think about the type of meals you’ll be packing. Are you primarily taking hot meals like soups and stews, or do you need to keep cold items like salads or yogurt chilled? Your choice may vary based on the types of meals you enjoy.
  • Portion Size: Assess your portion size requirements. Do you need a lunch box with multiple compartments for a variety of dishes, or will a single-tier box suffice for your typical meal?
  • Family Needs: If you’re buying a thermal lunch box for your family, consider the needs of each family member. This may involve selecting lunch boxes of different sizes or designs to cater to individual preferences.
  • Specific Features: Think about any specific features you require. For example, if you need to reheat your food, you’ll want a microwave-safe lunch box. If you want to pack sauces or dressings separately, you might need a lunch box with additional containers.
  • Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Your budget can influence the options available to you, but it’s essential to balance cost with quality and features.
  • Style and Aesthetics: Your personal preferences and style matter. Consider whether you have a preference for traditional Japanese designs, modern aesthetics, or unique patterns.
  • Convenience: Think about how easy it should be to carry and store your lunch box. Consider whether you want a lunch box with a handle, one that fits neatly in your bag, or a compact design for easy storage.
  • Longevity: Consider the longevity of your lunch box. Do you want a durable option that will last for years, or are you okay with a more budget-friendly choice that you may need to replace sooner?
  • Environmental Concerns: Some individuals may prioritize eco-friendly lunch box options, such as those made from sustainable materials or designed to reduce waste.
  • Dietary Needs: If you have specific dietary requirements, such as portion control or allergy concerns, take these into account when choosing the size and features of your lunch box.

• Size and Capacity:
  • Consider the portion size you require for your meals. Some thermal lunch boxes come in single-tier or multi-tier options. Choose a size that fits your meal portions comfortably.
  • Portion Size:
    • Think about your typical portion size for a meal. Are you a light eater, or do you have a hearty appetite? The lunch box should be large enough to accommodate the amount of food you usually consume.
  • Single-Tier vs. Multi-Tier:
    • Japanese thermal lunch boxes come in both single-tier and multi-tier designs. Single-tier boxes are simple and provide a single compartment for your food. Multi-tier boxes have multiple stacked compartments, allowing you to separate different dishes. Choose based on your preference for meal organization.
  • Number of Compartments:
    • If you opt for a multi-tier lunch box, consider how many compartments or tiers you need. Some boxes come with two or more tiers, while others may have three or more. More compartments provide greater flexibility in packing a variety of foods, but they may also make the lunch box larger and heavier.
  • Volume and Dimensions:
    • Check the dimensions and volume capacity of the lunch box. Ensure it can comfortably accommodate your meal without overfilling or leaving too much empty space. You don’t want your food to be squished or have excessive room for movement.
  • Specific Meal Requirements:
    • If you often pack specific types of meals, such as salads or sandwiches, consider whether the lunch box’s dimensions are suitable for those items. Tall and narrow boxes may be better for salads with dressings, while wider boxes are ideal for sandwiches.
  • Family Needs:
    • If you’re choosing a thermal lunch box for family use, consider the needs of all family members. Different family members may have varying portion sizes, so you might need multiple lunch boxes with different capacities.
  • Portability and Storage:
    • Keep in mind how you plan to carry and store the lunch box. A box that fits easily into your bag or backpack without taking up too much space might be essential if you commute or travel frequently.
  • Weight:
    • Consider the weight of the lunch box, especially if you need to carry it for an extended period. Stainless steel lunch boxes can be heavier than plastic ones, so factor in the weight when making your choice.
  • Extra Space:
    • Some lunch boxes come with extra compartments or spaces for utensils, condiments, or snacks. Determine if you need these additional features and whether they affect the box’s overall capacity.
  • Future Needs:
    • Think about your future needs. If your portion size or dietary preferences change over time, consider whether the lunch box you’re considering will still be suitable in the long term.

• Material:
  • Japanese thermal lunch boxes are typically made of stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel is durable and retains heat better, while plastic options are often lighter and more affordable. Decide which material suits your needs and preferences.

• Insulation:
  • Check the insulation quality of the lunch box. Look for models that offer excellent heat retention to keep your food hot or cold for an extended period.

• Leak-Proof and Sealing:
  • Ensure the lunch box has a reliable sealing mechanism to prevent leaks and spills. Look for models with silicone gaskets or rubber seals to provide a tight seal.

• Compartments and Dividers:
  • If you prefer to keep different food items separate, choose a bento box with compartments or dividers. This is particularly helpful for packing a variety of dishes without them mixing.

• Microwave and Dishwasher Compatibility:
  • Check if the lunch box is safe for use in the microwave or dishwasher if you plan to heat your meals or prefer easy cleaning. Some thermal lunch boxes have removable inner containers that are microwave-friendly.

• Portability:
  • Consider the ease of carrying your lunch box. Look for models with handles or carrying bags for convenience during transportation.

• Durability:
  • Invest in a lunch box made of high-quality materials that can withstand daily use and potential wear and tear.

• Style and Aesthetics:
  • Personal preferences matter. Choose a lunch box that you find visually appealing and matches your style.

• Price:
  • Set a budget and look for lunch boxes within your price range. Keep in mind that high-quality, durable options may cost more but can be a worthwhile investment in the long run.

• Brand and Reviews:
  • Research reputable brands known for producing quality thermal lunch boxes. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or online communities to gain insights into specific models.

• Additional Features:
  • Some lunch boxes come with extra features like utensils, condiment containers, or removable inner trays. Consider these features based on your needs.

• Warranty:
  • Check if the lunch box comes with a warranty, as this can provide peace of mind in case of any defects or issues.

• Purchase and Test:
  • Once you’ve narrowed down your options, consider making a purchase and testing the lunch box with a meal to ensure it meets your expectations regarding heat retention, ease of use, and leakage prevention.

Best Japanese Thermal Lunch Box: FAQs

Which material is best for bento boxes?

Bento boxes are made of various materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and bamboo. When looking for the best material, the important factor to look at is that it is food-safe and is durable enough to be carried around.

Are all Bento boxes airtight and leakproof?

Most bento boxes are airtight and leakproof, keeping the liquids safe from leaking and spilling everywhere.

Are thermal lunch boxes safe to carry food?

Thermal lunch boxes are used to keep food warm or cold. Most thermal boxes are safe to carry food and are approved by FDA. You can ensure it’s safe by checking if the thermal boxes are free of chemicals and is antibacterial.

What is the famous Japanese lunch box?

The most famous Japanese lunch box is the bento. Bento are single-portion boxed meals usually composed of a carb (usually rice or noodles), a protein (usually meat or fish), and an assortment of pickled or cooked vegetables. They can be simple or elaborate, and are often decorated with cute or seasonal designs.

Bento boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. They often have compartments to keep the food separate, and some may also come with utensils.

Does the Bentgo lunch boxes keep food warm?

Some Bentgo lunch boxes do keep food warm, but not all of them. The Bentgo Classic, Bentgo Kids, and Bentgo Chill lunch boxes do not have insulation, so they will not keep food warm for very long. However, the Bentgo Stainless Steel Insulated Lunch Box and the Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box do have insulation, so they can keep food warm for up to 6 hours.

The amount of time that food will stay warm in a Bentgo lunch box will also depend on the temperature of the food when it is packed, the temperature of the outside environment, and how tightly the lunch box is sealed.

If you are looking for a Bentgo lunch box that will keep food warm, I recommend the Bentgo Stainless Steel Insulated Lunch Box or the Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box. These lunch boxes have double-wall insulation that helps to keep food hot or cold for hours.

The best lunch box to make lunchtime enjoyable!

With this, we come to the end of this fresh journey. We hope you enjoyed the ride into the world of the best Japanese lunch boxes and found a beautiful thermal lunch box that would be your partner every day. Happy lunching!

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