Chopsticks & Chopstick Rests

Chopsticks & Rests have transcended from their role as utensils used for cooking and serving to become symbols of tradition, etiquette, and respect. They are often associated with unity, as shared meals are central to cultural gatherings. Our range at Gifu is crafted from high quality materials from labels Tamaki and Gohobi.

Tamaki Chopstick Rest - Black

Tamaki Chopstick Rest - Yellow

Frequently Asked Questions

What are chopsticks & chopstick rests called in Japanese?

Hashi (箸) translates to chopsticks in Japanese.

Hashioki (箸置き) is derived from "hashi" and "oki," where "oki" means to place or put down.

So, Hashioki translates to chopsticks placement or chopstick rest.

What are Japanese chopsticks and chopstick rests typically made of?

Both are made from a variety of traditional and modern materials, each with its own cultural significance and aesthetic appeal. The materials used can vary based on tradition, cultural influences, and personal preferences.

Japanese Chopsticks are traditionally made from wood, mostly bamboo or hinoki (Japanese cypress). Wood chopsticks are lightweight, have a natural texture, and are popular for everyday meals. Some Chopstick styles are made from Metal or Plastic.

Chopstick Rests can be made from a variety of materials too, but they are most commonly made of ceramic, porcelain, or wood. Ceramic chopstick rests are often decorated with traditional Japanese patterns or motifs, while wooden ones may be left plain or carved with intricate designs.

In addition to ceramic and wooden chopstick rests, there are also chopstick rests made from other materials like Chopsticks, such as Metal, Plastic or even Glass. Some chopstick rests may be decorated with a special glaze, such as the popular "raku" glaze, which gives them a unique and distinct appearance.

What is the difference between Chinese and Japanese chopsticks?

Chinese chopsticks are typically made from ivory, plastic or bamboo. They're significantly longer than Japanese chopsticks because tables are usually larger and they also use rotating table settings. Their diet included many fried foods, and the meals were often shared among a large group. Longer chopsticks make it easier to pick up food, and more of it.

In Japan, chopsticks are shorter, thinner, and usually made of wood. Dishes in Japanese cuisine are often prepared for each individual, so it was unnecessary to use longer chopsticks.

Japanese chopsticks vary in shapes and sizes because they have been developed for different uses. Cooking, eating main dishes and eating desert all have different styles. One thing they all have in common is the pointed end that Chinese chopsticks don't have, this was first thought of due to having a lot of white fish in their diets. Pointed ends made it easier to pick the small bones out and also to pick up smaller bites common in Japanese cuisine.