The Purpose of Oshibori

You might be tempted to wipe your face with it, but it is basically for wiping your hands.

When you take a seat at a restaurant or izakaya in Japan, you are often served an "oshibori" first. This is meant for cleaning your hands before a meal and is one of the unique hospitality cultures of Japan. Sometimes a cold oshibori is served in the summer, and a warm one in the winter, which leaves some travelers impressed by the amazing attention to detail.

However, if you are sweating on a hot day, you might instinctively want to wipe your face and neck. In fact, you may occasionally see older men wiping their faces in Japan, but it is fundamentally considered to be "something for wiping your hands." In high-end restaurants or formal settings, the act of wiping your face can give a slightly too casual impression.

Also, oshibori are not only provided as disposable types but sometimes as cloth towels. It is natural to lightly wipe your hands before a meal and, once finished using it, fold it neatly and leave it on the table.

Although it is a small item, please enjoy it as a piece of culture where you can feel the cleanliness and spirit of service typical of Japan.