Japan’s “Don’t Stick Chopsticks in Rice” – Ultimate Table Manners Guide for 10 Countries

▲ Table Manners (Image / Dagchi / Illustration)

By Rita

When traveling abroad, you might often feel confused during meals. Aside from being a bit awkward with different utensils, the new environment may also make you wonder if you’re behaving properly. The UK’s Daily Mail compiled a“Table Manners Around the World”, presented in chart form, helping travelers understand local customs—from places like Paris, Tokyo, and Mexico City. This etiquette guide will help you avoid any faux pas.

1. France
Avoid: Resting your hands on your knees while eating.
Polite: Keep your hands on the table where others can see them.

2. Germany
Avoid: Cutting potatoes with a knife
Polite: Mash potatoes with a fork or the back of a knife

3. Spain
Avoid: Leaving the table immediately after finishing your meal
Polite: Relax and chat with friends after the meal

4. United Kingdom
Avoid: Using utensils to eat asparagus
Polite: Pick asparagus up with your hands and dip it in sauce

5. Hungary
Avoid: Toasting with beer by shouting “cheers”
Polite: Gently clink glasses with other alcoholic drinks

6. Mexico
Avoid: Eating tacos with any utensils
Polite: Eat tacos with your hands

7. Georgia
Avoid: Sipping quietly during the traditional supra meal
Polite: Make a toast and drink heartily

8. Japan
Avoid: Sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice
Etiquette: Place it flat

9. South Korea
Avoid: Don't take a plate with one hand
Etiquette: Accept it with both hands

10. Thailand
Avoid: Don’t put food directly from the fork into your mouth
Etiquette: Put the food from the fork onto the spoon before eating

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