Chopsticks culture connects Vietnam and Japan

Recently, a group of Japanese artists have visited Vietnam, sharing with local students about how to make and use Japanese chopsticks.

Chopsticks are a signature part of many Asian cultures, including Korea, China, Japan and Vietnam. Yet not all chopsticks are alike. There are distinct differences between Japanese and Vietnamese chopsticks. Japanese chopsticks come in various sizes, from children’s and women’s sizes to bento sizes. They typically taper to a fine point and are intricately ornamented with lacquer. Vietnamese chopsticks are longer, taper to a blunt point and are more simple.

In Japanese, はし (hashi) means chopsticks. Hashi also means bridge - A bridge connecting people from different cultures, like Japan and Vietnam. This is a class that teaches Vietnamese students to make Japanese chopsticks. The class was started by the International Organization of Chopsticks Culture. These students are taught about what comprises standard Japanese chopsticks.

"Chopsticks in Japanese culture are not merely chopsticks. They represent the personalities of their owners. That’s why in Japan, each family member has his or her own pair. Chopsticks also carry the essence of Japanese culture. Whenever people use chopsticks, they show respect to the meal, other diners, and also the chefs", said Nakamuchi Hisatsugu, Japanese artist.

During the 2-day program, an exhibition showcasing a variety of Japanese chopsticks was on display. In Japan, chopsticks are one lacquerware art the country takes great pride in. Alongside the exhibition, a large space was/is used to introduce pictures of the local students. The pictures present the children’s viewpoints about Japanese chopsticks and their impressions about Japanese culture.