One, How to use chopsticks correctly?

1. Basic grip steps

• Step 1: Place one chopstick (the lower one) at the junction between your ring finger and the base of your palm, securing it with the root of your thumb.
• Step 2: Control the other chopstick (the upper one) with your thumb, index finger, and middle finger, similar to how you hold a pen.
• Step 3: Move the upper chopstick up and down by using your index and middle fingers while keeping the lower chopstick stationary.
• Practice tips: Start by picking up large pieces of food (such as tofu or meat), then try smaller items (like beans) once you become more proficient.

2. Common mistakes and corrections

• Mistake 1: Chopsticks cross and cannot close properly. Correction: Ensure the two chopsticks are parallel, controlling the upper chopstick only with your fingertips.
• Mistake 2: Applying too much force causes food to slip. Correction: Keep your wrist relaxed when picking up food, using skill rather than brute strength.

3. Alternative solutions

If practicing proves difficult, you can request: - Training chopsticks (children's chopsticks with a connecting ring at the end) - Western cutlery (some restaurants may offer this automatically)

Two, Chinese dining etiquette tips

1. Basic etiquette principles

• Prohibited behaviors:
• Do not stick chopsticks vertically into rice: This resembles incense used in offerings and is considered unlucky.
• Avoid pointing chopsticks at others: Pointing with chopsticks has a confrontational connotation.
• Do not tap bowls or plates: Traditionally associated with beggar behavior.

• Do not pick through shared dishes: Doing so is seen as lacking manners.

• Correct practices:

• Use serving chopsticks: When eating with multiple people, use communal chopsticks to transfer shared dishes to individual plates.
• Polite serving: When serving elders or guests, use communal chopsticks or the ends of your chopsticks (depending on local customs).
• Proper placement: Rest chopsticks on the edge of your bowl or plate, or on a chopstick rest when not in use.

2. Banquet etiquette details

• Seating arrangements: The guest of honor usually faces the door or sits at the northernmost position of a round table, with the host sitting to their left.
• Order of eating: Cold dishes → Hot dishes → Soup → Main course → Fruit; do not start before others.
• Drinking etiquette: When clinking glasses, keep your glass slightly lower than the other person’s as a sign of respect, and say "Gānbēi" (Cheers).

3. Regional differences to note

• North vs South: In the north, it's common to share large pieces of food directly, whereas in the south, meals tend to be more delicately divided.
• Minority regions: In places like Xinjiang or Tibet, there may be customs such as hand-eating rice, so it's best to follow the locals' example.

Three, Practical tips

1. Restaurant selection: For first-time experiences, choose chain restaurants with English menus (such as Haidilao or Din Tai Fung), where staff often provide guidance.
2. Emergency phrases: Learn "Please give me a fork" (Qǐng gěi wǒ chāzi) as a backup.
3. Cultural tolerance: Chinese people generally show understanding towards foreigners who make mistakes with chopsticks, and attempting boldly often earns appreciation.