Going to Japan for the first time is really a thrilling experience and something that not lots of people have the opportunity to undertake in their lifetime. Visiting america means exploring a place where old-world tradition meets probably the most modern technology, and that could mean it comes with its very own set of rules. While much of Japan – especially Tokyo – is extremely tolerant of newcomers who might not know their customs, that doesn't mean a traveler gets a free pass.
With a bit of research and consideration, any traveler can follow Japan's unspoken rules and etiquette. With regards to dining, especially, there are some things that everybody ought to know, whether or not they have been to Japan or not. Meals are the universal unifier, so it's vital that you have a firm grasp on this before anything else. For all those with an eye on Japan for future years, listed here are the dos and don'ts when dining in this magnificent country.
The largest Challenge: Chopstick Etiquette
Some countries depend on forks and knives while some prefer to eat communally using their hands but throughout Asia, chopsticks would be the most commonly used utensil. Throughout Japan, you will find very specific rules that go together with with them, too. How one uses chopsticks could be a reflection on themselves, so it's important to make sure the practice of using them is down pat prior to any visit. Obviously, most restaurants will have alternative utensils if a person only asks – however, if chopsticks are chosen, they should be used correctly.
- Step 1: Pick up chopsticks by utilizing both of your hands.
- Step 2: Avoid playing with chopsticks; don't snap them together, avoid moving them around an excessive amount of, rather than indicate anything, or anyone, with them.
- Step 3: If taking food from a communal plate, always use the thicker end from the chopsticks (the end that goes between one's fingers).
- Step 4: Never dig down into a bowl vertically with chopsticks, this is similar to funereal practices and considered to become poor etiquette.
- Step 5: Do not stab food with chopsticks to choose up; rather, it is common practice to carry them slightly horizontal to get a better angle around the food.
- Step 6: When sharing food, never pass it to another diner with the chopsticks – this is another funereal practice that's not done during a social meal.
- Step 7: When using disposable chopsticks, put them into the bag they came in when the meal is completed. Otherwise, they must be laid sideways on the plate although not pointed at anyone at the dining room table. If one has yet to finish but needs a break, chopsticks ought to be placed to the side of the plate or bowl to indicate the diner is not finished eating yet.
Throughout the Meal
Now that chopstick etiquette continues to be addressed, there's something to know throughout your food, as well. How you can properly use chopsticks was only the beginning; there are several other customs that need equal respect from newcomers when dining in Japan, too.
Soy Sauce
It's common to enter a Japanese restaurant and discover a bottle of soy sauce at the table, which is a common practice in North America, as well. When taking soy sauce for any meal in Japan, the entire process of doing so differs slightly. Diners should not pour soy sauce directly over their food; rather, pour it in to the accompanying normal size bowl, after which dip food, instead. This could be seen at Hibachi restaurants throughout North America, therefore it shouldn't be unfamiliar for those visiting Japan.
The Art Of Slurping
It may not be common practice far away – and may even be considered rude or impolite – slurping is really very commonplace in Japan. It might feel silly at first but rest assured, to slurp is to imply a meal continues to be thoroughly enjoyed. When eating a bowl of ramen, for example, it's not uncommon for diners to lift the bowl and slurp the rest of the broth, signifying it had been both delicious and filling. To complete a meal completely is another common practice; diners should not take more food than they intend on eating because to leave even a grain of rice on the plate is considered rude, or signifies that it wasn't enjoyed.
Common Japanese Phrases To Know
- Itadaki-masu – “I humbly receive”
- Gochisosama-deshita (formal), Gochisosama (informal) – “Thank you for the meal”
- Kanpai! – “Cheers!”
Sushi Etiquette
That's right – you will find a proper etiquette for sushi, as well! When eating sushi in Japan, there are several unspoken rules to follow along with:
- Don't go crazy on the soy sauce – leaving behind a bowl full of it is considered bad manners, because it's wasteful.
- When dipping sushi such as nigiri, it's common practice to flip it so that the sushi is fish-side-down, thus avoiding leaving any rice behind. To depart rice inside a soy sauce bowl is also considered rude and messy.
Etiquette For Drinks With A Meal
Of course, drinks are always part of any good meal! When ordering them, one should never drink alone – this means either waiting before the other diners have started to the table, or avoiding drinking altogether if one is dining on their own.
It's also common practice for diners to fill the glasses of others, and something should never fill or refill their own glass – try to do that for others.
