How to Eat Japanese Noodles

Noodles are a common staple in the Japanese diet. When visiting other countries, it is important to understand that they have customs that will seem strange and even rude to our standards of living. The proper way to eat Japanese noodles is a bit strange and noisy, but in Japan, this will be considered polite and courteous, much like placing your shoes outside the door before you walk into a room.

Things You'll Need

• Chopsticks

Instructions

1. Use the chopsticks to pick up noodles.

2. Put the noodles in your mouth with the majority of the noodles hanging down into your bowl.

3. Slurp the noodles until they are all in your mouth.

4. Chew and swallow.

5. Drink the soup that is beneath as you finish your noodles.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are in Japan eating noodles, failure to slurp and make a bit of noise is considered rude. It is also considered rude to accept second servings. If you are in doubt about the proper amount of noise to make, take your cue from the locals around you.

References

• Japanese Eating Culture for Westerners