Chopsticks originated in China and usage in Japan, South Korea and Vietnam was introduced from China. About 1.5 billion people use chopsticks worldwide and a large number of Westerners are proud of using the eating utensil. Lyudmila Putin, wife of Russian President Vladimir Putin and world-famous tenor Placido Domingo, are said to be proficient in the use of chopsticks.
Japanese chopsticks are short and pointed because, it is said, that style is more suited for eating sashimi, a Japanese favorite. There is also a Chopsticks Festival in Japan to commemorate the Introduction
of the invention.
South Koreans use pointed chopsticks made of stainless steel, which are durable and convenient for eating barbecue
In America, chopsticks are sold in many gift and souvenir stores or supermarkets and in most large eating establishments, a customer's request for chopsticks will be satisfied
Some Chinese food restaurants provide printed explanations on how to use chopsticks, complete with photographs and the advice that practice with pencils might be helpful.
Chopsticks are not only a unique kind of tableware but a small carrier to aid in the spread of Chinese culture. In Western countries, eating Chinese food has become popular and, eating with chopsticks helps provide the true flavor of the activity.
