Characteristics of the handles of chopsticks by shape
The handle of chopsticks is also called the "handle," and is the part that determines how easy it is to hold. You can tell their shape by looking at the shape of the "head" at the end of the handle. Chopsticks are held with three fingers, so chopsticks with an odd number of sides, such as triangular, pentagonal, or heptagonal, are said to be easy to hold. However, many people also choose hexagonal or octagonal shapes because they are considered to be auspicious numbers. Try to find a shape that suits your taste.■Triangle
The large surface makes it easy to place your fingers on the chopsticks, and they offer excellent stability. They also help children learn the correct way to hold the chopsticks, making them a great choice for children and those who are not good at using chopsticks. If using chopsticks becomes fun, your meals will taste even better.
Also, the triangular shape is the least likely to roll when placed down. Even if you bump into it, it will stay on the table. This is very helpful when you're busy in the morning.■Square
![[Mansaku Selection] Kyoto Saga Square Chopsticks for Couples - Patterned Bamboo](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0551/9897/4030/files/K10838_2.jpg)
[Mansaku Selection] Kyoto Saga Square Chopsticks for Couples - Patterned Bamboo
This is a common shape that makes it easy to rest your fingers on the surface and transfer pressure to the tip of the chopsticks. Some people seem to be bothered by the corners rubbing against their fingers. Try using chopsticks at home to see which you prefer. Square chopsticks are beautiful when they are perfectly aligned when placed down. Like triangular chopsticks, the corners also have the advantage of making them less likely to roll than round chopsticks.■Hexagon
Beech Parent and Child Hexagonal Chopsticks
It has the same shape as the pencils we've been using since childhood. It fits comfortably in your hand and fingers, and is easy to hold. There are no corners that rub against your hand like a square pencil.
Furthermore, the hexagon is also the shape of a turtle shell, which is a symbol of longevity. As the saying goes, "A crane lives for a thousand years, a turtle lives for ten thousand years," this shape has been considered auspicious since ancient times.
If you're looking for a gift for Respect for the Aged Day or to celebrate longevity, hexagonal shapes are perfect.
■Octagonal
![[Mansaku Select] Half Octagonal Chopsticks](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0551/9897/4030/files/10496_1.jpg)
[Mansaku Select] Half Octagonal Chopsticks
Although it is nearly round, the surface makes it less slippery and allows for a stable grip. It has no quirks and fits comfortably in the hand, making it a shape that suits everyone. The number 8 also has a widening shape, making it an auspicious number. It is often chosen as a gift for special occasions such as wedding favors.■Maru
The lack of sharp edges makes it comfortable to hold, and even those who grip it tightly can use it without strain. The only drawback is that it is prone to slipping and rolling.
■Scraping
![[Mansaku Selection] Ironwood Carved Couple Chopsticks](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0551/9897/4030/files/10486.jpg)
[Mansaku Selection] Ironwood Carved Couple Chopsticks
The chopsticks are "shaved" from the handle to the tip, and there are no sharp edges. They have a gentle feel and fit perfectly in your hand. The design is sophisticated and gives an elegant impression. They are also good to have on hand as chopsticks for guests.Characteristics of chopstick tip shapes
While we tend to focus on the design of the handle, the tip of chopsticks is the heart of the chopsticks. Also known as the "edge," the tip of the chopsticks is the part that is most carefully crafted. The shape of the tip affects how easily food can be held and how it feels in your mouth when you put it in and take it out. Some people use different tips depending on the purpose. It is also not uncommon for the handle and the tip of the chopsticks to be different shapes.■Sakimaru
Solid Ashura Chopsticks - Goldfish
It has a standard shape and feels the best in the mouth. It doesn't hurt your mouth when it touches it. However, because it is so smooth, it is probably best to avoid it when eating noodles.■Point angle
![[Mansaku Selection] Wakasa Lacquerware Pointed Chopsticks - Chiyozakura](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0551/9897/4030/files/K10460_1.jpg)
[Mansaku Selection] Wakasa Lacquerware Pointed Chopsticks - Chiyozakura
Some people find the corners of the chopsticks to be a bit of a hassle when they touch their mouth, but these chopsticks are easy to use. They are characterized by the fact that you can easily pick up food by holding the chopsticks between the sides or between the sides and the corners. They are perfect for eating soft foods like tofu and konjac, or noodles. Even those who are not good at holding chopsticks will be able to pick up food without stress.■Tapered
[Mansaku Select] Thinly Carved Bamboo Chopsticks - Pointed
The tip of the chopsticks is tapered, allowing for fine adjustment of the movement of the chopsticks. You can effortlessly pick up small objects like rice grains and beans. They also easily separate the flesh of grilled or boiled fish, allowing you to eat the whole thing neatly, leaving only the bones. They also make it easy to cut boiled pumpkin into bite-sized pieces. They also barely touch your mouth, so they don't get in the way of your meal.■Dry lacquer
Dry Lacquer Octagonal Slim Chopsticks - with Chopstick Rest - Red/Yellow/Green/Purple/Black
After applying lacquer, dried powdered lacquer is applied and then finished with another coat of lacquer. The surface is rough and non-slip, making it easy to grip food. It is also durable and scratch-resistant, so it can be used for a long time.
