A must-see for tourists! How to use chopsticks in Japan and basic manners

When I visit Japan, I often use chopsticks when eating.

Using chopsticks correctly is important not only for making meals more enjoyable, but also for respecting Japanese culture.

Here, I will explain in detail how to use chopsticks and manners in Japan.

Basic way to hold chopsticks

Preparing chopsticks

Chopsticks are usually prepared before meals or served along with a towel.

After taking out the chopsticks, wipe your hands with a towel first.

How to hold chopsticks

First, hold a pair of chopsticks with your thumb, index finger, and middle finger.

Secure the chopsticks to the base of your thumb and support them with your index finger and middle finger.

Next, place another chopstick between your index finger and middle finger and support it with the belly of your thumb.

At this time, make sure the tips of both chopsticks are aligned.

How to use chopsticks

Move the top chopsticks to grab the food.

The lower chopsticks are fixed, and food can be pinched by moving only the upper chopsticks.

Basic chopstick manners

Don't stick chopsticks

Avoid sticking chopsticks vertically into rice or food.

Since this is reminiscent of an offering at a funeral, it is considered extremely ominous.

Don't lick chopsticks

The act of licking chopsticks while in your mouth is considered rude.

Use chopsticks when picking up food, and remove chopsticks from your mouth after carrying it to your mouth.

Don't hand over food with chopsticks

The act of handing food from chopsticks to chopsticks is also reminiscent of picking up bones at a funeral, and should be avoided.

When sharing food, divide it into plates before handing it over.

Use chopstick rests

Use a chopstick rest when placing chopsticks in the middle of a meal.

If you don't have a chopstick rest, be sure to place chopsticks on the edge of the bowl.

Not looking for food

Scratching and searching for food with chopsticks is a violation of manners. When taking food, take it as far as you can see.

Common mistakes in using chopsticks

Grip Chopsticks

Holding chopsticks with the whole hand looks childish and is considered rude in formal settings.

sticky chopsticks

You should avoid putting chopsticks in your mouth and licking them. This is extremely unsanitary and is considered a violation of manners.

Chopsticks

The act of attracting vessels with chopsticks is also considered rude. Let's move the vessel by holding it with our hands.

Japanese chopstick culture

In Japan, chopsticks have a deep history and culture, and by following proper usage and manners, you can enjoy a richer food culture.

By mastering how to use chopsticks, eating in Japan will be even more fun and special.

Lastly

When visiting Japan, by observing how to use chopsticks and good manners, you can interact smoothly with local people and have a deeper cultural experience.

Even first-time users will be able to use chopsticks with confidence by learning the basic rules.

While enjoying eating in Japan, be sure to learn how to use chopsticks.

If you visit Japan, the country of hospitality, I also recommend a beauty experience!

Finding spots in Japan where you can experience beauty such as massages, nails, and beauty treatments to heal the tiredness of your trip is highly recommended as part of sightseeing.

Here are a few salons that I recommend to those who are particular about technology and quality.

Beauty experience in Japan

Ginza/ “Mani Nail Care Ginza Store”

Open at 9 a.m.! A 5-minute walk from Ginza Station, this is a popular nail care salon where you can get rid of nail problems.

Hand and foot nails can be performed simultaneously. For those who are concerned about the burden of gel nails, we have prepared a number of “non-scraping” gel polishes, shellac, nail care, foot care, etc.

Recommended for those trying nail art for the first time, as well as those seeking special care. Men's care is also available, so it's also suitable for couples.

Details

Ginza/ “head CONCIERGE Ginza Store”

A head spa specialty store where a group of nationally qualified specialists lead to “ultimate sleep.”

It is a technique of pressing pressure points on the head called the deep muscle approach, which leads to ultimate sleep.

Various effects can be expected, such as “relieving insomnia,” “improving shoulder stiffness,” “recovering from eye strain,” and “anti-aging.”

Enjoy the ultimate head spa that goes beyond relaxation.

Details

Jimbocho (Akihabara area)/“CREBIA Jimbocho Store”

A slimming esthetic salon that leads to effortless results! Highly skilled and experienced staff are popular.

It is a talented salon that is a strong ally for women who want to go on a diet.

Our experienced staff will suggest a menu tailored to each person's constitution and concerns, so you can get closer to your ideal body without difficulty, without waste, and effectively.

Details

Kyoto/ “Kawaramachi Sopoca-lon”

Conveniently located a 7-minute walk from Hankyu “Karasuma Station”, this salon is located between Sanjo and Shijo, making it perfect for those who enjoy shopping and tourists.

This is a popular salon for casual yet sophisticated “just the right casual nails.”

Inside the spacious store, the spacious chairs are designed so you won't get tired even if you sit for a long time, and we provide a space where you can relax while receiving careful nail care.

Osaka/ “bellissimo”

A beauty salon focused on results, located right next to Osaka's “Fukushima” station, and staffed by knowledgeable and experienced staff.

This salon is recommended for those with scalp problems such as diet, stiff shoulders/swelling, or hair loss.

We offer a superb relaxation menu, such as slimming machines, oil massages, head spas, hair loss care, and hair growth care menus.

Head spas approach scalp problems felt due to aging, dryness, stress, etc.

It thoroughly relaxes stiff scalp and improves blood circulation, thereby improving blood color.

Since it is a treatment that is close to each person in a private room, you can receive it with peace of mind.

Details

Osaka/ “Watanabe Acupuncture and Moxibustion Chiropractic Clinic”

If you are looking for high quality acupuncture and manipulative treatment, I recommend this salon.

Manipulative treatment to lighten the body, cosmetic acupuncture treatment where effects can be felt at the cellular level, and for bodies that make it easier to get pregnant.

We are good at improving constitution and treating pain and numbness, and we provide safe treatment for people with various problems.

Please experience our careful treatment and high technical skills.

Details

Fukuoka/ “NAILSALON EPI”

A 3-minute walk from Meinohama Station on the Fukuoka Metro Airport Line, this is the perfect nail salon for those looking for trends.

Packed with trendy colors you can't find anywhere else. We have a selection of popular magnet colors, and after the treatment, “Where did you do that nail?” There is no doubt that you will be asked.

The color can be changed according to the wishes of each customer, and it is popular for its good durability and beautiful finish.

You can also enjoy a movie during the treatment in the stylish store, so you can spend a relaxing time.

Enjoy fashion from your fingertips at this popular nail salon.

Details

Fukuoka/ “head CONCIERGE Fukuoka Store”

A head spa specialty store where a group of nationally qualified specialists lead to “ultimate sleep.”

Head Concierge is a group of experts who have learned how to train their arms with their fingers.

It is a technique of pressing pressure points on the head called the deep muscle approach, which leads to ultimate sleep.

Various effects can be expected, such as “relieving insomnia,” “improving shoulder stiffness,” “recovering from eye strain,” and “anti-aging.”

Enjoy the ultimate head spa that goes beyond relaxation.

Details