Knowing how to use chopsticks might seem like a small part of the Japanese dining experience, however, it is a very important one. Having proper manners and etiquette is very important, so here are some quick things to remember about chopsticks in Japan.
Don’t leave them in the food – Never stick your chopsticks into the rice (or other foods) and leave them like that. In fact, chopsticks sticking out of a bowl of rice is used in traditional Japanese funerals, so avoid this and just put them down on the table or the little stand they provide for them. No one wants to think you are honoring a funeral while at dinner.
Don’t stab things – If you can’t use chopsticks, use a fork instead, there is no shame if you can’t master them. Just don’t use your chopsticks to spear and stab your food. It is again considered rude and pretty foolish to do. You aren’t a child and the food is not a play toy. Just learn how to use them or find another way to get the food to your mouth.
Don’t pass food – Like leaving the chopsticks in a bowl of rice, passing food between chopsticks is a no-no and is something that resembles a ritual that is done at traditional funerals (passing bones from chopstick to chopstick). Just pass the bowl to each other if you want to share food with another person.
Don’t point – Mom always said it’s rude to point at someone, the same is true with chopsticks, so don’t do it.
Don’t move plates with chopsticks – Again, just use your hands to pass a bowl or plate to another person if you are sharing food. If you shouldn’t share items from chopstick to chopstick, then you probably drag a plate or a bowl with your chopsticks across the table.
Don’t rub them together – People often like to rub chopsticks, especially if they are the disposable wood ones to get off some of the shavings, don’t do it though. It is considered rude behavior and often may be seen as insulting to the restaurant owner as you are mocking their chopsticks. So just avoid this, set them down, and wait for your food. No need to play around right before dinner, right?
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