箸：Chopsticks

Chopsticks have traditionally been used mainly in East Asia, although these days they can be found all around the globe. It is amazing what a simple pair of sticks can do when driven by skilled fingers -from cutting off pieces of food from a larger section to crumbling it for greater texture, there is much more to chopsticks than meets the eye at first. They traditional chopsticks of South Korea are of metal, while Japan’s counterparts are mostly of wood. Japan’s chopsticks are noted for their great diversity of designs and colors, with different sizes for children and adults, and each family member has his or her own pair. Many Japanese people relish selecting their own favorites.

Keio Plaza Hotel holds its Japanese-chopstick themed event every year. Some offerings with mother-of-pearl inlay glitter in rainbow colors, while those using overglazing represent a craft with four centuries of history. A dazzling array from across Japan will be on display and sale, and one hotel restaurant will provide a special French dinner to be enjoyed with chopsticks. If you are interested in Japan’s culinary culture, this even must not be missed.