Manners in Using Chopsticks
Depending on the country, some nations may use chopsticks or a knife and a fork. But for Japan, people usually use chopsticks for most of their meals. We will now introduce the taboos when using chopsticks.
・ Pulling or moving bowls with chopsticks (Yosebashi)
This act is a sign of poor manners. Please move the dishes or bowls using both hands after putting down your chopsticks.
・ Licking the ends of your chopsticks (Neburibashi)
Avoid doing this as it is unpleasant to look at especially when you’re dining together with other people. Refrain also from holding chopsticks with your mouth.
・ Jumping from one side dish to another (Utsuribashi)
This act is considered of poor manners. Finish everything you have in your bowl before moving to another dish.
・ Piercing food using chopsticks (Sashibashi)
Refrain from doing this since it is of poor manners and it gives off a childish impression
that you are not good at using chopsticks.
・ Sticking your chopsticks straight up in rice
This is a taboo act to do since its appearance resemble that of the offerings to Buddha.
・ Hovering chopsticks over the food (Mayoibashi)
Moving from one plate to another is a sign of being indecisive. Let’s observe a smart behavior even during eating.
・ Searching for food using your chopsticks (Saguribashi)
This act is when you look for food within the bowl using your chopsticks. Japanese cuisine is said to be eaten with the eyes thus it is plated to look as tasty as possible. Please eat in order so that the food presentation is not ruined.
Let us try to use chopsticks properly to enjoy delicious Japanese food
