How to Enjoy Japanese Cuisine
Simple Etiquette Tips for a Delicious Experience
1/9 – Begin with Gratitude
Say “Itadakimasu” before eating, and “Gochisousama deshita” after finishing. These expressions show appreciation for the meal and its preparation.
2/9 – Chopstick Etiquette
Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice
Don’t point with chopsticks
Avoid passing food between chopsticks
Use both hands to lift bowls from the table
3/9 – Sushi Manners
Eat sushi with your hands or chopsticks. Dip only the fish side into soy sauce, and avoid mixing wasabi into it at upscale restaurants.
4/9 – Tempura and Side Dishes
Enjoy tempura lightly dipped or with a pinch of salt. Don’t soak it. Small items like sushi or pickles should be eaten in one bite when possible.
5/9 – Slurping Noodles Is OK
It’s perfectly acceptable to slurp ramen or soba. It’s a sign of enjoyment. Just be considerate in quiet environments.
6/9 – Handling Bowls Properly
Lift rice or soup bowls with both hands when picking them up. Eating with one hand afterward is totally fine.
7/9 – How to Split Chopsticks Properly
Hold the chopsticks horizontally and pull them apart gently and evenly. Don’t bend or twist them — doing it roughly may break one side and appear clumsy.
8/9– It’s polite to drink soup directly from the bowl
In many countries, sipping directly from a bowl is seen as rude — but not in Japan. Holding your miso soup bowl with both hands and drinking from it is respectful and traditional.
9/9 –Bonus Tip: Observe and Follow
Japanese dining isn’t about perfection, but mindfulness. If unsure, look around — following others is the best way to learn.