Question
I’m traveling in Japan for the first time and have heard that many restaurants provide a wet towel before the meal. I would like to know how to properly use it. Could you explain how to politely ask “How do I use the wet towel?” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
おしぼりの使い方（つかいかた）を教えて（おしえて）ください。
Oshibori no tsukaikata o oshiete kudasai.
How do I use the wet towel?
In Japan, especially in restaurants, you will often be given a small wet towel called “oshibori” before your meal. These are for cleaning your hands before eating. To ask how to use it, you can use the phrase above.
“Oshibori” refers to the damp towel itself, “tsukaikata” means “how to use,” and “oshiete kudasai” is a polite way to say “please teach me” or “please tell me.” Adjust the phrase by replacing “oshibori” with any other item you want to learn about. By using this structure, you’re showing respect and a willingness to learn about local customs.
