【Reading】でまえおけ

【English Name】Delivery container

A demae-oke is a dedicated container used by sushi shops when delivering ordered items. A round, shallow shape is common, and lacquered wooden tubs are known as the traditional material.

It is said to have developed as the culture of sushi delivery spread in the Edo period, and the style of arranging sushi in attractive lacquerware tubs for delivery became established. After delivery, there was a custom called "oke-gaeshi" (returning the tub), in which the customer would set out the finished tub at the entrance or storefront for the shop staff to collect later.

In modern times, plastic and disposable containers have become mainstream, and the number of shops using traditional wooden demae-oke is on the decline. However, some high-end sushi shops and long-established establishments continue to use lacquered tubs out of regard for dignity.

The demae-oke is not merely a transport tool but also serves as a "vessel" for arranging sushi beautifully, and can be said to be one of the tools symbolizing Japan's delivery culture.