(はしお)

はしおき
noun
chopstick rest
1. chopstick rest
chopstick rest
I put my chopsticks on the chopstick rest before drinking tea.
My grandmother made this chopstick rest in her pottery class.
It's fun to change chopstick rests to match the seasons.
I found cute chopstick rests while traveling and bought them as souvenirs.
When there's no chopstick rest, you can fold the chopstick wrapper and use it as a substitute.

箸置(はしお)き are small rests for chopsticks, used to keep them off the table and prevent contamination. They come in countless designs and are often collectible.

Etiquette notes:

  • Place chopsticks horizontally on the rest between bites
  • Never stick chopsticks upright in rice (funeral association)
  • Never rest chopsticks across the bowl ((わた)(ばし) - considered rude)

Popular designs include seasonal motifs (cherry blossoms, autumn leaves), animals, and artistic shapes. Many restaurants use disposable paper or plastic versions.

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