Joanna James
Japan is known the world over for its polite culture and gentle ways. Therefore, anyone visiting the 'land of the rising sun' should know their table manners and general etiquette. This article will update you on common Japanese table manners to save face.
The wet towel you will be presented with whenever you visit a restaurant is only for your hands. The towel may be a reusable cloth or a paper towel to use and dispose of, but its use is for only one purpose; to clean your hands, not your face, neck, or the table. Do keep this in mind. Places like Kyoto, thought of as Japan's cultural capital, is one place you must get your table manners right. As for the best stays, look for Kyoto hotel deals and enjoy huge savings. Some Kyoto accommodation the likes of Park Hotel Kyoto will even go on to offer close to 50% off the rate on conditional bookings.
Before and after enjoying a meal, it is traditional to give thanks to the food. The phrase Itadakimasu is used before partaking of the food to thank the people responsible for growing and preparing the food. Gochiso-sama is how you give thanks at the end of the meal. The appreciation is extended to the animals that sacrificed their lives to create the meat or fish dish you just enjoyed. Vegetables and fruits too are given the same status; therefore, gratitude is shown to the lifeforms who gave you the meal.
Chopsticks are the standard utensil used in Japan and there are proper techniques associated with the proper use of them. You must hold the chopstick between your index, middle finger, and thumb. Make sure the bottom chopstick is lying in the crook of your thumb and resting on your ring finger; think of the chopstick as a pen and hold it in a similar grasp. Do not stab at the food and use the chopsticks like spears, it is considered rude. You may want to practice using chopsticks before heading out to Japan. Use the chopstick stand to place them in-between eating your meal, never lay them across the bowl. Make sure that you do not pass food from your chopstick to another's chopstick; you can, however, place the food at the edge of your plate and have them pick it up. Also, do not lick your chopsticks.
It is considered good manners to hold your small bowl of rice in one hand while eating. Japanese restaurants offer rice in small lightweight bowls, which serves the purpose. The same applies to miso soup.
It is very rude to have your elbows on the table when eating. You can either place your free hand on the table when eating or eat with your elbows raised above the table. Avoid displaying your elbows as it is considered disruptive to the pleasant experience of others
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
