Chopsticks Etiquette: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Never stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl—this is a big no-no in China and Japan because it resembles a funeral ritual. Always rest them side by side on a chopstick rest or a folded napkin if you don’t have one. Don’t pass food from your chopsticks to someone else’s. If you want to share, place the food on their plate instead. This avoids any awkward reminders of funeral customs. Resist rubbing disposable chopsticks together. It looks like you’re saying the chopsticks are cheap, which can be insulting to your host or the restaurant. Don’t use your chopsticks to dig through shared dishes or point at people. It’s considered rude and unsanitary. Following these steps shows respect for the culture and your dining companions. It’s not about being perfect, but about being thoughtful. #ChopsticksEtiquette #JapanTravel #FoodCulture #Food