Chopsticks came to Japan from China a long time ago, originally they looked like tongs and were used only for serving in Shinto shrines as offerings to spirits. Over time, chopsticks began to be used by the Japanese nobility for everyday meals, and around the 7th century AD, the use of chopsticks became widespread.

Chopsticks are called in Japan - 箸 (hashi). This is an important element in the everyday life of the Japanese, they are selected individually. Usually people buy beautiful chopstick rests for them. Also, chopsticks are stored in special cases, often with elaborate decorative trim. Many Japanese prefer to use their own chopsticks, even in catering establishments.

The ability to properly use and hold chopsticks is a whole art, accompanied by many rules of etiquette. In Japan, chopsticks are used for almost any food, except for European ones in restaurants. How to eat with chopsticks correctly:
1. Do not stab food with chopsticks.
2. Do not lick the chopsticks or keep them in your mouth.
3. Do not move dishes with chopsticks.
4. Do not stick chopsticks into a plate of food, especially rice.
5. Do not dig into food with chopsticks.
6. Do not shovel soup or rice directly into your mouth.
7. Do not pass food from the chopsticks of one person to the chopsticks of another.
8. Do not let the sauce drip off your chopsticks, and try not to drop food on the table.
9. Do not take chopsticks in a fist.
10. Do not point and wave chopsticks in the air.

What rules were new to you?