chopsticks 箸 hashi

The implement that changed the way Asia eats. Originating over 5,000 years ago in China, chopsticks made their way to Japan by the 7th century, transforming from cooking implements into the elegant cutlery we know today. They symbolize precision, delicacy, and the art of enjoying food without haste (because let’s be honest, we couldn’t eat fast with them even if we wanted to!)

Mastering your food sticks:

• Never stick your chopsticks upright in rice (or any dish). This is reminiscent of funeral incense sticks and considered very disrespectful. When not in use, place them neatly on a 箸置き hashioki (chopstick rest) or across a dish with tips facing left.
• Passing food from chopstick-to-chopstick mimics a funeral ritual involving bone transfer. You guessed right: Don’t do it.
• Pointing with chopsticks is like pointing a gun, i.e., best avoided unless you want to provoke an unexpected showdown.
• Stabbing food with chopsticks is a major faux pas. They’re not kebab skewers!
• Rubbing chopsticks together suggests the restaurant skimps on quality. Even if you suspect splinters, trust in the establishment’s pride.

For practice opportunities, see food.