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What Day is Today, August 4th? Japan's "Chopsticks Day" and Mindful Eating

Hello! Do you know what day today, August 4th, is in Japan? Actually, Japanese people love wordplay with numbers. Since the numbers 8 and 4 can be read as "Ha" and "Shi," today is known as "Chopsticks Day" (Hashi no Hi).

Chopsticks are not just a tool for eating; they represent a deep part of Japanese culture and philosophy. Are all of you foreign residents and visitors comfortable using chopsticks? Unlike using a spoon or fork to scoop up large amounts of food, using chopsticks naturally reduces the size of each bite. Your eating pace slows down, allowing you to chew thoroughly and truly savor the taste and texture of the ingredients. In modern terms, using chopsticks is a daily practice of "mindful eating." The Japanese custom of putting one's hands together before a meal and saying "Itadakimasu" to express gratitude for the life we consume is also based on this spirit.

However, during this harsh Japanese summer, what do we tend to do? We can't help but chug down a cold beer right after work. Well, to be fair, it is absolutely delicious! But consuming cold food and drinks too quickly completely chills and exhausts our gastrointestinal engine, leading to chronic physical fatigue. It is very important to eat slowly with chopsticks so as not to put unnecessary strain on your stomach and intestines.

The nature of chopsticks as a tool also blends beautifully into our daily lives. A friend of mine recently got married, and I gave them a gift called Meoto-bashi (couple's chopsticks). I've heard that in other countries, there is a culture of gifting special, beautiful plates or wine glasses to newlyweds, and this tradition is very similar.

Meoto-bashi is a pair of beautiful chopsticks with a matching or complementary design meant for a married couple. Using them at the dinner table every night brings back fond memories. Cherishing the tools you use and spending your long life together with them... This reflects the Japanese spirit of treating everyday objects with great care and respect.

If you are feeling completely exhausted by the August heat, it might be a sign that your digestive system is tired. Today, try using chopsticks to enjoy your meal slowly and listen to what your body is telling you. Next time you visit a station mall or a department store, it might be a wonderful idea to take a close look at the various beautiful chopsticks and buy a pair that perfectly suits you.