The hurdles of Japanese etiquette can faze people. But don't let it - here are a few simple rules to help you on your way. When eating sushi, it is totally acceptable to pick it up with your fingers - you don't have to wrestle with your chopsticks. However, it is usually the rule to dip any sushi fish side down, into soy sauce, as rice grains can muddy the dipping bowl if dipped otherwise. It is also worth noting that to mix wasabi in with the soy sauce is a western convention, and best avoided when trying to impress a Japanese friend! For soup it is worth remembering that the bowl should be held in the left hand and chopsticks in the right (or visa versa if you are left handed). You can lift the soup bowl to your mouth, but not the bowl of rice. Soy sauce should not be poured over food directly - instead there is usually a dipping bowl provided. The only exceptions are tofu and daikon dishes, where soy is poured over the dish. Some rules for chopsticks - always turn your chopsticks round to serve yourself from a communal dish as it is more sanitary and never pass food between chopsticks as this is reminiscent of the funeral practise of passing bones. And rice - always eat every last grain (it is the staple and it is considered rude and wasteful to leave any in the bowl). And finally expect a toast and a hot towel before eating - try not to tuck in before these as it's rude to eat before giving thanks and washing your hands!