itadakimasu, japan, japanese etiquette, mealtime

Japanese Mealtime: The Profound Meaning of Itadakimasu

One ritual that everyone observes at Japanese mealtime before partaking of the food, regardless of gender or occasion, is to utter “itadakimasu” and clasp the hands together in front of the chest. The Japanese are renowned for being attentive and considerate in their hospitality, making them consummate hosts. Guests in Japan also have a set ...

Emma Lu

Japanese mealtime: A table loaded with dishes for breakfast and a Japanese family sitting with hands clasped to show gratitude for the meal.