| Common Chopstick Faux Pas |
Using chopsticks correctly is considered an important part of etiquette just as dressing in
appropriate attire. Just as one would not wear a dirty shirt to a restaurant, chopsticks should not be used
in an impolite or inappropriate manner.
The following taboos regarding chopstick usage are the product of a long cultural history in Japan. How many do you know among 14 taboos? |
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1. Sticking Chopsticks into rice:
Thrusting or planting chopsticks into a bowl of rice is a way of making offerings to the dead.
To do so at the table is considered most inappropriate.
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2. Dripping Chopsticks
Avoid dripping any kind of liquids from chopsticks when eating. Drain any residual liquids from food, etc. before eating.
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3. Wandering Chopsticks:
Hovering chopsticks over dishes while trying to decide what to take is considered uncouth and should therefore be avoided.
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4. Pulling Chopsticks:
Moving dishes around with chopsticks is considered inappropriate.
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5. Eating like a dog:
Doing so is universally considered to be impolite.
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6. Grasping Chopsticks:
Grasping Chopsticks as if they were tools is considered uncouth. Chopsticks should be picked up with just the fingers.
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7. Drumming Chopsticks:
Drumming chopsticks against tableware should be avoided at all times.
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8. Rubbing Chopsticks:
Although commonly seen, rubbing chopsticks against each other to remove splinters is considered inappropriate. Use fingers to remove splinters.
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9. Pointing:
Pointing at people with chopsticks is considered to be very impolite.
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10. Knife and fork:
Chopsticks are to be used as a pair in one hand only. Avoid using them like a knife and fork.
Japanese dishes are always prepared with small pieces that can be picked up with the chopsticks. If a knife is needed, please request one.
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11. Cramming food:
Cramming food into your mouth with the chopsticks is inappropriate.
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12. Licking Chopsticks
Avoid licking the chopsticks.
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13. Jabbing food:
Avoid jabbing or skewering food with the chopsticks.
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14. Sucking Chopsticks
Sucking on chopsticks is considered very rude, plus you might get a splinter!
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