Chopsticks
Find the perfect pair of chopsticks from our collection of authentic Japanese chopsticks. Known as hashi in Japanese, chopsticks are an essential dinnerware item that lets you fully immerse yourself in Japan's rich culinary culture.
All handmade with care, our selection includes reusable chopsticks in designs ranging from casual to elegant, and sizes from small to large. Whether you're looking to buy your first pair or seeking a special gift, you'll discover the finest set here.
What is the best length?
Optimal length chopsticks are easy to hold and use. The manner that you eat becomes more graceful when you hold chopsticks that are the right size. Measure your hand size and choose the length that is the perfect for your hands.
For adults, the optimal chopstick length is 1.5 times the length between the tips 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 21–23 cm (8.3–9 in), and taller individuals should choose large chopsticks with a length of about 23–25 cm (9–9.8 in).
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 3 cm (1.2 in).
By giving children 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 the following table as a guideline to choose the right size.
- 3 to 4 years old: 15–16 cm(5.9–6.2 in)
- 5 to 9 years old: 17–18 cm(6.7-7.1 in)
- 10 to 15 years old: 19–20 cm(7.5–7.9 in)
- Female adults, teenagers: 21–23 cm(8.3–9 in)
- Male and Female adults: 23–25 cm(9–9.8 in)
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More about Japanese Chopsticks
The origin of Japan's chopsticks culture traces back to the Han Dynasty and then spread to other parts of East Asia, including Japan. The earliest chopsticks are said to have originated in China 3,000 years ago and were introduced to Japan around 603. Some documents suggest that folded chopsticks were used in ancient Japanese ceremonies even before they were imported from China.
The culture of chopsticks, which originally began with the idea of "keeping knives off the dinner table," has evolved uniquely in East Asian countries. Bamboo and wooden chopsticks became the mainstream style in China, while metal chopsticks are prevalent in Korea. In Japan, bamboo and wooden chopsticks are preferred, often decorated with lacquer.
The shape of chopsticks also varies among countries. For example, Chinese chopsticks are long and uniform in thickness, while Japanese chopsticks are shorter and tapered at the tip, giving more emphasis on fine movements.
Japanese tableware, including authentic chopsticks, is characterized by its variety in size, ensuring that each item is suited to the individual.
Additionally, while restaurants often provide disposable chopsticks made from wood scraps, the sustainable practice of carrying personal reusable chopsticks, known as "my hashi," has gained popularity in Japan in recent years.
In Japan, people learn to use chopsticks properly from childhood. For adults, it may be challenging at first, but with practice, you'll gradually become accustomed to them. Let's start with the basics of using chopsticks. Below is the step and this blog post might be helpful for better understanding.
- Hold one of the two chopsticks by pinching about two-thirds of the way from the chopstick tip with your thumb and index finger, as you would hold a pen.
- Next, place the other chopstick through the ring between your thumb and index finger, and rest it between your middle and ring finger. Keep the tips of the upper and lower chopsticks close together.
- When picking up your food, move the upper chopstick using your index finger, middle finger, and thumb. The lower chopstick, held at the base of the thumb, should remain stationary.