For adults, the optimal chopstick length is 1.5 times the length between the tip of your thumb and your index finger when spread at a right angle.

Generally, it is recommended that individuals of average or small height should choose  middle-sized chopsticks with a length of about 8.3-9 inches (21-23 cm), and taller individuals should choose large-sized chopsticks with a length of about 9-9.8 inches (23-25 cm).

However, the size of one's hands varies from person to person, so we recommend that you measure your hand as shown in the illustration on the left, calculate the optimal length, and then choose a pair of chopsticks close to the calculated length.

For children, the optimal length of chopsticks is the length of the hand plus 3cm(1.2 in).

By giving your child chopsticks that are the right size, they can have fun practicing their chopstick skills.

Please note that the appropriate size for children's chopsticks vary greatly depending on each individual. Please refer to following table just as a guideline to choose the right size.

1Try holding one of the two chopsticks first. Hold it by pinching about two-thirds of the way from the chopstick tip with your thumb and index finger, as you would hold a pen.

2Next, put the other chopstick through the circle between your thumb and index finger, and lightly place it between your middle and ring finger. Keep the tips of the upper and lower chopsticks close together.

3When picking up food, move the upper chopsticks with your index finger, middle finger and thumb. The lower chopstick held at the base of the thumb should not move.

Level 1

Once you have held the chopsticks correctly, trying holding something. The key is to hold the chopsticks firmly with your thumb and make sure that the tips of the chopsticks are touching each other.
 

Level 2

Once you feel comfortable holding food with your chopsticks, try bringing the food to your mouth. Practice moving the upper chopsticks to hold food. By adjusting the pressure of your grip, you will be able to hold on to items that tend to fall apart when held tightly, such as sushi.

Level 3

When you get used to holding food with chopsticks, try cutting dishes such as grilled fish into small pieces. Align the tips of the chopsticks, cut into the food like a knife, and open the chopstick tips to the left and right to break up the pieces of food into bite-sized pieces.

For RiceCooked rice is the signature staple food of Japan, but is difficult to eat with chopsticks for beginners because portions of rice tend to fall apart. The trick is to scoop up a portion of rice with the tips of the chopsticks. It is Japanese dining etiquette to lift the rice bowl with your left hand, bring it close to your mouth, and then scoop up the rice with your chopsticks. 

For NoodlesIf you find it difficult to eat noodles such as ramen with chopsticks because the noodles slip out of your chopsticks, hold a spoon in your left hand to catch the noodles. When trying to hold a bundle of  noodles, avoid the noodles from slipping by holding one noodle that rests on the very tip of the chopsticks.

For TofuEating soft tofu with chopsticks can be quite difficult, even for Japanese who are used to using chopsticks. The more you try to grab a big chunk of tofu, the more it will fall apart. Cut the tofu into slightly smaller pieces and then try to lightly lift the tofu from the sides. 

Orthodontic chopsticks

In Japan, using chopsticks correctly is one of the most important aspects of table manners, so there are various orthodontic devices for chopsticks. Orthodontic chopsticks are user-friendly, even for first-time chopstick users. It may be a good idea to start with orthodontic chopsticks when you decide to use chopsticks for the first time, especially for children.

“Mame Utsushi”

There is a fun old game played with chopsticks called "Mame Utsushi", meaning "transfer beans."  The challenge is to carry dried beans from one plate to another using chopsticks and competing how quickly and accurately you can transfer the small, hard-to-grasp beans. Once you get used to using chopsticks, you can play this kind of party game with your family to get used to using them. 

Chopsticks Culture in Japan

Matsukan Wakasa Lacquer Chopsticks

Matsukan has been a manufacturer of lacquered chopsticks since 1922 in Obama City, the thriving epicenter of the lacquered chopsticks industry. Matsukan crafts a wide variety of chopsticks that radiate joyous excitement through their exceptional artistry.

Ishida Wakasa Lacquer Chopsticks

Ishida has been making Wakasa lacqerware for more than eighty years. Wakasa lacquerware is a traditional craft of Obama, Fukui Prefecture that has been around since the early Edo period.

Yamachiku Bamboo Chopsticks

Yamachiku is a Kyushu-based factory that has been specializing in bamboo chopsticks for many years. Bamboo grows well in warm areas, and Kyushu area accounts for about 40% of the total area of bamboo forests in Japan.

Kawai Wakasa Chopsticks

Kawai Chopsticks, based in Obama city, has been producing chopsticks since 1943. Obama city is a well-known production area for chopsticks called “Wakasa Nuri-bashi” (Wakasa lacquer chopsticks).  80% of chopsticks manufactured in Japan are made here.