Japan, a country of traditions, is known for its numerous rituals and unparalleled courtesy. In the archipelago, the cuisine is especially healthy and the traditional meal is a truly sacred moment.
Then, how to eat in japan in the rules of art? As a tourist it is absolutely necessary to know the local customs so as not to pass for a rude foreigner.
Traditions, expressions of courtesy and rules of decorum… by reading this article you will know everything about good table manners.
? Dress up a Japanese table
In the land of the rising sun dinner is the most traditional. The Japanese eat together, usually sitting around a low table surrounded by Zabuton or of zaisu (cushions and floor chairs). Also dinner rhymes with amiability. The dishes are brought on a tray and placed in the center of the table to be distributed among the guests.
The japanese tableware sober and elegant, it offers containers of various sizes and shapes adapted to their use. It is made up of bowls, plates and fountains made of different materials: ceramic, wood, lacquer, glass or porcelain. the bowl of ricethe main element of the meal, is always placed on the left while the miso soup right figure. As for the dishes, they adopt round, rectangular or square shapes depending on the food they contain. Keep in mind that the presentation of the dishes is as important as the taste. Indeed, cook in japan can also be seen with the eyes! When the meal is over, diners politely return the plates as they were presented.
? Types of dishes
A Japanese tradition called Ichiju Sansai “one soup, three courses” means that we always eat a rice dish, a miso soup and three accompaniments (rich in fiber, proteins and minerals). Thus we can find fish, meat, eggs, tofu as well as mushrooms, cabbage and other vegetables depending on the season. In this way, meals are perfectly diversified and balanced. Similarly, it is customary to find 5 flavors in Japanese dishes: dirtythe sweetmeacidmeamer and the famous umami. Finally, the colors of the food and the cooking methods are also varied.
share plates
In the archipelago there is no starter, main course or dessert like in the West. Everything is eaten at the same time. never mixing. Generally, we start with the lightest dishes on the palate and finish with the spiciest ones in order to feel all the subtleties foods. Also, it is customary to serve directly on the plate using the opposite side of the chopsticks so as not to share their microbes.
Japanese expressions and courtesy formulas at the table.
Are you finally at the table and your belly starts to gurgle in front of your appetizing dishes? Before jumping on sushi or other japanese specialtiesdon’t forget to pronounce ” Itadakimasu “. East japanese polite formula it is a thank you for the food you receive. You can then join both hands together if you wish as a sign of recognition. In the same way, to toast, we will say “ bell ” and no ” Health What does genitalia mean in Japanese? That would be inappropriate… ? While eating, you can show your satisfaction with the word ” oishi which means “delicious”. Finally, when the meal is finished, it is appropriate to say ” gochisosama deshita as a thank you for what they served you.
? Some rules to follow to behave well
In all cultures there are well-established customs and codes, especially when it comes to eating. In Japan, there are many rules that you must know in order to behave properly at the table. Obviously, Cleanliness, respect for others and food are required. !
?️ Clean your hands
take the time toclean your hands with the towel provided for this purpose before beginning to serve you. Then fold it back. Before drinking, remember to also clean your mouth so as not to dirty the glass.
? Use chopsticks
you will have to learn to lunch with baguette and this is not always obvious. Don’t worry, we made you a tutorial to find out how to eat with chopsticks. In general, be careful never to poke or stick them in food. You can still use them to cut your food (with one hand), when it’s too big. Also, absolutely avoid pointing at a person with your chopsticks if you don’t want to offend them. the western dishes you can eat with your usual cutlery : forks, knives and spoons ?.
? Eat well
To eat the rice well, take the bowl in the palm of your hand and hold it with your thumb and then bring it up to your mouth. Use the chopsticks with the other hand. know that white rice is eaten alone so avoid mixing it with soy sauce. The noodles and soup as for them will be sucked out loud. In Japanese culture, it means to enjoy the dish. Sushi will always taste delicious in a single bite. You can use chopsticks or sometimes eat them by hand. To end, do not overdo the sauces and condiments
?? Don’t offend the chef
The dishes that are served will always be consumed “hot” to respect the work of the cook. In the same spirit, it is absolutely necessary that you finish your dish so as not to offend the chef.
❌ Avoid inappropriate gestures and words
During the meal, especially, don’t blow your nose because it’s very poorly polished ?. Similarly, not burping at the table seems like a no-brainer… Unpleasant topics should be banned so as not to take away the appetite of diners. Also, it is appropriate don’t put your elbows on the tablebut to place your hands on these knees or on either side of your plate.
? Wait before you drink
Never serve alcohol on your own. Arm yourself with patience and wait until politely offered a drink. Spread out your empty glass and don’t forget to serve guests in turns. Finally, make sure everyone is served and toasts before you start drinking.
With these few rules of courtesy, you now know how to eat in Japan and sit well at the table. All that remains is to savor the delicious Japanese cuisine!
