Japanese Rice Bowls

The foundation of a traditional Japanese diet is based on cooked rice and miso soup, accompanied by side dishes such as grilled fish and vegetables. Rice bowls are called "chawan" in Japanese, and together with miso soup bowls, they are indispensable tableware for Japanese cuisine.

Before the Meiji period (1868CE-1912CE), wooden rice bowls were commonly used, but after the industrial revolution, ceramic rice bowls became more widespread. The word "chawan" originally referred to tea bowls, which were primarily used in Japanese tea ceremonies. However, as ceramic bowls became more common and food culture evolved, the meaning of "chawan" shifted.

Even today, tea bowls for the tea ceremony are called “chawan", while rice bowls are sometimes called “meshi-wan" to identify their use.

In Japanese table manners, it is customary to to hold the rice bowl with your left hand. For this reason, Japanese rice bowls are designed to fit comfortably in one's hand, with the standard size being around 11-12cm (4.3-4.7in) in diameter. Since the ideal bowl size may vary depending on individual preferences and hand size, it's important to find a rice bowl that suits you.

Japanese rice bowls come in a wide variety of designs and shapes, from the standard rounded shape to a flat shape with an open rim. Each shape has a different image for serving rice, so it is best to get one that suits your personal style.

Calories

250Cal.

About 50 calories per 1 oz of white rice. 
(250 Cal. /140g rice)

Carbohydrates

2 oz.

About 0.4 oz per 1 oz of white rice.
(56g carb/140g rice)

Proteins

0.14 oz.

About 0.03 oz per 1 oz of white rice.
(4g proteins /140g rice)

Japan's unique food culture has led to the development of various bowl sizes, which we classify into five categories:
Kobachi Bowl, where you can enjoy appetizers and a variety of dishes in small portions; Serving Bowl, for serving your favorite dishes from a platter; Rice Bowl and Soup Bowl, which are the basics of Japanese cuisine; and  Donburi & Ramen Bowl, the largest bowl, which is perfect for donburi dishes such as poke, as well as soups and noodles.

Small Kobachi & Appetizer Bowl

Small kobachi appetizer bowls have a diameter of under 12cm (4.7in). They are perfect size for serving side dishes such as sunomono or potato salad for one person. Since it is deeper than a small plate, it is suitable for serving soupy side dishes such as stewed dishes. Incorporating kobachi into a table setting and arranging dishes of different sizes creates a dynamic and gorgeous atmosphere.

Serving Bowl

Serving bowls is a bowl with a diameter of over 13cm (5.1in). They are very versatile tableware which have variety of shapes and patterns. It can be used not only for salads, side dishes and desserts, but also for soupy dishes such as stewed dishes "nimono" because of their depth. Sometimes it can also be used for donburi rice and noodles.

Soup Bowl

When you eat Japanese cuisine, it often comes with soup, such as miso soup or clear soup. Soups make you feel warm and relaxed and are full of nutrition. Whether you choose soup bowls made of wood, lacquered wood, or ceramic, the atmosphere of your dining table will change dramatically. Find your favorite among our collection of soup bowls from all over Japan that make your soup even more delicious.

Rice Bowl

Rice bowls are essential tableware in Japanese dining. Craftsmen put great care into making them light and comfortable to hold, as they are often lifted with the left hand. Since they are used frequently, many people are particular about their choice. Having a favorite rice bowl can make everyday dining more enjoyable.

Donburi & Ramen Bowl

Ramen, udon, soba, katsudon, oyakodon, and other Japanese dishes served in donburi bowls are all incredibly appealing. While you can use medium-sized bowls for some dishes, when it comes to meals with soup, a deep and large donburi bowl is more durable, retains heat better, and enhances the taste.