Sushi Etiquette: Hands or Chopsticks?

Both are fine. Traditionally, nigiri is eaten with the fingers, and that's still normal at sushi counters. Sashimi is always eaten with chopsticks. What matters more is eating each piece promptly and in one bite.

The rules. Nigiri: fingers or chopsticks. Sashimi: chopsticks. Maki and gunkan: either. Temaki: hands. Dipping: fish side down, lightly. Wipe fingers: on the oshibori (hot towel).

Eating nigiri with your hands

Pick up the piece between thumb and middle finger, with your index finger on top. Turn it slightly so the fish touches the soy, not the rice. Eat it in one bite, fish side on your tongue. Wipe your fingers on the oshibori between pieces.

Using chopsticks

Tip the piece on its side, grip it across the fish and rice, and turn it to dip the fish. Avoid squeezing — the rice should stay intact.

Chopstick don'ts

Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice — it's associated with funerals. Don't pass food chopstick to chopstick — also a funeral custom. Don't rub disposable chopsticks together; it suggests they're cheap. Rest them on the hashioki (chopstick rest).

At a counter, the chef may place nigiri directly in front of you. Eat it within about a minute, while the rice is at body temperature.

Nobody minds if you're not perfect. Enjoying the food matters more than exact technique. See omakase etiquette.

Don't bite nigiri in half if you can avoid it. The piece is built to be eaten whole. Ask for smaller rice (shari sukuname) if needed.

Common questions

Is it rude to eat sushi with your hands?

No — it's traditional for nigiri.

Should I eat sashimi with hands?

No, use chopsticks.

Where else can I look?

See wasabi and soy sauce.

Compiled by our editorial team from established Japanese culinary references, food safety guidance and Hong Kong restaurant and retailer information, retrieved September 2026. General information only. No brand or retailer paid for inclusion.