Koreans often find humor in the perceived strictness of Japanese etiquette, especially in traditional settings like Kyoto. This post went viral for comically exaggerating the 'rules' around something as simple as eating a sweet, making it relatable for anyone who's felt overwhelmed by cultural norms abroad.
This post taps into a common Korean internet trope of playfully highlighting the perceived formality and intricate etiquette often associated with traditional Japanese culture, particularly in historical cities like Kyoto. It's a humorous take on navigating cultural nuances that can feel overwhelming to outsiders.
You thought you could just grab that wagashi, snap it in half, and shove it in your mouth like a savage? Bro, no. Absolutely NOT. In the suffocating world of Kyoto's tea ceremony, just getting a single wagashi into your mouth is a whole blood-drying quest, no cap. Did you even know?
Alright, buckle up. Here are the 4 survival rules for wagashi etiquette. First up: 'NO 1-SECOND CUTS!' That premium wagashi in front of you? It's not just some sugar rush snack, bestie. You can't just admire the garden, look at the wagashi, and then think 'okay, time to eat!' Nah. You NEED to drop some compliments that basically worship the host's refined taste. You gotta be like, 'Oh my god, this is truly beautiful! What is this wagashi called?' And then you gotta chat about its seasonal vibe and the artisan's skill. Only THEN will they see you as a person who 'gets it.' Skip this, and you're just a clueless outsider who only cares about sweets, fr fr.
And rule number three: 'NO TEETH MARKS!'