About chopsticks

In Japan, chopsticks are commonly used in eating. Chopsticks, which are composed of two sticks, are used when eating any dish especially Japanese dishes. Aside from rice and side dishes, chopsticks are also used when eating noodles like udon or soba.

Let's try using chopsticks

It may seem hard at first, but when you get used to it, you'll realize that it's very convenient. Using chopsticks is something like driving a car. It may not go well at first, but with practice, you'll be able to do it naturally.

Let's try holding chopsticks

Hold one stick with your right hand, and place the top part of the stick between your thumb, index finger and middle finger. This is how you hold the top chopstick. Try to move the chopstick up and down. The other chopstick should be at the bottom. Place it on the base in between your thumb and index finger, and fix it in place by touching it to the side of your ring finger's nail. This is the most basic way of holding chopsticks.

Let's try moving the chopsticks

When you are able to hold the chopsticks, next, try moving them. Hold the top chopstick in a way that your middle finger's first joint acts as its support. If you are holding them properly, the ends of the chopsticks should be touching while the rest of the two sticks should be separated. Now, holding the top chopstick between your index finger and middle finger, try and move it up and down. Do this without moving the one at the bottom. If you did it, you should be able to open and close the ends of the chopsticks. How was it? Were you able to do it?

The secret to moving chopsticks

One point to note when moving the chopsticks is that only the top one should be moving and the bottom chopstick should be still. If you can properly use them, you'll be able to pick up small things like beans grain by grain, and this will increase the enjoyment you experience when eating.