July 2025 Web Cafe Highlights

🎌 Did you know? In Japan, passing food directly from one pair of chopsticks to another is considered bad manners—because it closely resembles a funeral ritual. Surprising, right? That was just one of the many interesting facts our participants learned at this month’s free Web Cafe titled “From Slippers to Chopsticks.”

🌏 A Fun & Insightful Web Cafe on Japanese Manners

Our latest Web Cafe welcomed more than 30 participants from Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and China for a lively and informative discussion on Japanese manners and etiquette. From how to properly use chopsticks to the do’s and don’ts of slippers in the home, the session revealed cultural habits that many attendees found both eye-opening and useful.

Participants shared that they were surprised to learn about customs that are considered rude in Japan, and appreciated how the session highlighted things often overlooked by travelers or even Japanese learners.

Names and photos posted with consent.

With the help of our wonderful facilitators, Yayoi-sensei, Sasaki-san, and Hinata-san, the session stayed interactive and welcoming. Their explanations, translations, and warm presence created a space filled with both learning and laughter.

📋 Highlights from Participant Feedback:

✅ Informative & Easy to Follow

• “Easy to understand yet full of information.”

• “Insightful—I learned a lot about manners in Japan.”

• “I’ve learned key points on how to act appropriately in Japan.”

🥢 Chopstick Manners Were a Favorite

• “I loved the lesson on chopstick manners.”

• “I really liked how Yayoi-sensei explained how to use chopsticks.”

💬 Friendly & Skilled Facilitators

• “The speakers were very good in English.”

• “Ikeda-san helped with translations and kept the conversation going.”

• “The hosts were very friendly and accommodating.”

🎉 Fun Atmosphere

• “The Web Cafe was fun and filled with laughter.”

• “It was interesting and enjoyable despite technical difficulties.”

ありがとうございます to everyone who joined us! Don’t miss the next Web Cafe—it’s always free, always friendly, and always a great chance to connect and learn. 🌸