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The giant red paper lantern of the Kaminarimon gate at Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, with visitors passing beneath.

Eating and chopstick etiquette for kids in Japan

Simple table manners for children in Japan — chopstick do’s and don’ts, the mealtime phrases, slurping, and how to handle restaurants with young kids.

By Small Steps Japan EditorialReviewed by Small Steps Japan Editorial Standards5 min readIndependently researched

Japanese table manners are gentle and easy for kids to pick up, and staff are relaxed about children learning. A few simple habits — plus the lovely mealtime phrases — make eating out a pleasure.

The mealtime phrases

Say “itadakimasu” before eating (a bit like “let’s eat / thank you for this food”) and “gochisōsama deshita” after. Kids love the ritual, and it’s warmly received.

Chopstick do’s and don’ts

  • Don’t stand chopsticks upright in rice, and don’t pass food chopstick-to-chopstick — both echo funeral customs.
  • Don’t wave, point or spear food with chopsticks; rest them on the holder or across your bowl between bites.
  • Kids’ chopsticks, helper chopsticks and cutlery are widely available — just ask if needed.

Slurping is fine

Slurping noodles is completely acceptable and even shows you’re enjoying them — children usually find this rule delightful. Soup can be sipped straight from a small bowl.

Restaurants with young kids

  • Many family restaurants have high chairs, kids’ menus and picture menus — a soft landing.
  • Keep voices calm, as you would on a train; step outside briefly if a little one gets upset.
  • Wet wipes and a small clean-up of your table space are appreciated.
  • Wait to be seated where indicated, and use the damp oshibori towel to wipe hands before eating.

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Common questions

What chopstick rules should I teach my kids for Japan?
The big ones: never stand chopsticks upright in rice, and never pass food chopstick-to-chopstick. Otherwise, rest them on the holder between bites and don’t point or spear food. Helper chopsticks and cutlery are easy to get.
Is it rude for kids to slurp noodles?
Not at all — slurping noodles is normal and even shows enjoyment. Most children think it’s brilliant that a table manner encourages noise.

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