Because Japanese culture has such a long and storied past, there is a correct etiquette for almost every occasion. There are no exceptions to this rule when it comes to meals, whether formal or informal. While all we want is for you to enjoy your dinner and experience real Japanese food. If you’re planning a trip to Japan now that the borders are open, here are some etiquette tips to keep in mind.
- Formal Sitting
The tatami is a reed-like mat on which traditional Japanese meals are served. You may be seated in a seiza position (on heels with your legs tucked behind the buttocks) at formal traditional Japanese dining parties, which is uncomfortable.
If your host or hostess says, “get comfy,” you can sit cross-legged (if you’re a man) or with your legs tucked to one side (if female). Never ever spread your legs directly out in front of you. Most restaurants nowadays however do have normal chairs or stools but just in case here’s what you do!
- Use of Chopsticks
Using your bowl as a resting place for your chopsticks is a breach of etiquette. You’ve undoubtedly seen it done so many times that it feels like the right thing to do. If you don’t have a chopstick rest, build your own out of the wrapper the chopsticks came in. If you don’t have a wrapper, lay your chopsticks on the side of a tray or any similar table item.
Also, it might come as a surprise but the Japanese use chopsticks while having soup as well. No, I’m serious. To eat the solid food pieces from the broth, use chopsticks. When you’re done, put the bowl to your mouth and drink the broth straight from the bowl, just like you would a cup of tea.
- Slurping is a sign of appreciation
Did you know that slurping is an expression of gratitude? Slurping your noodles in Japanese culture denotes how much you’re enjoying your meal. Slurping the noodles cools them down and intensifies the flavours, so get in there and slurp it up!
- Soy sauce pouring
Pour only as much soy sauce as your dish requires into the little basin supplied. It’s considered impolite to serve too much soy sauce, yet it’s common to leave a trace after you’ve finished.
- Return all your dishes to the way they were at the start
In most cultures, this is expected, but it is more so in Japan. Replacing lids on plates and putting your chopsticks back on the chopstick rest or in the paper holder they came in are all part of good etiquette and manners thus it would be great to follow such practices when visiting the lovely country.
- Drinking etiquette
If you are out having drinks with some Japanese friends, wait until everyone at the table has a drink and the glasses are raised for a drinking salute – generally “kampaii” – before you start drinking. Women should place their hand beneath a glass when holding it. When speaking with a superior, men should also do this as a display of respect. It is usual to serve each other rather than pour your own drink when consuming alcoholic beverages.
Don’t worry if you forget one or more of these rules; they’re just guidelines. You can always see what others are doing and follow suit if you forget. Keep them in mind, and you’ll be able to impress your friends and coworkers with your understanding of how to dine in Japan.
This article was brought to you by Raj who is currently fleeing the battle~
