Why do people rub chopsticks together?

According to the Japanese National Tourism Organization's essential guide to Japanese dining etiquette, rubbing chopsticks together is neither "necessary nor polite." Chef John Um from Sushisamba Las Vegas had this to add: "It is considered an insult, suggesting the quality of the chopsticks is poor. read more

Most people who are not familiar with using chopsticks rub them together to get rid of splinters. This is seen as insulting in countries where chopsticks are commonly used, so I wouldn't do this unless you are at home by yourself or with someone who doesn't care. read more

What most people don't know is that there is much more to chopstick etiquette than just finger placement. Because, once packaging is torn away, many diners proceed to rub their waribashi together. And this, sushi lovers, is a big no-no. When patrons automatically rub chopsticks together, it indicates that they think the waribashi are cheap. read more