From Chopsticks to Yukata: Students of Hasanuddin University Delve into Japanese Culture

Fifty students and lecturers from the Japanese Literature Department, Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) gathered at Meiji Restaurant in Makassar on 6 September 2025 for a practical workshop titled “Understanding Japanese Dining Etiquette.” The session was led by Lussy Novarida Ridwan, Head of the Association of Indonesian Japanese Language Teachers (AGBJI).

Participants received hands-on training in the details of Japanese dining, including the correct way to hold chopsticks, proper seating, and other polite behaviours at the table, practising the etiquette during a meal. The cultural immersion was deepened as students had the opportunity to wear a traditional Yukata. One student expressed that the direct, practical experience was far more impactful than learning from books or films.

According to Head of Committee Taqdir, S.Pd.., M.Hum, the event was designed to provide students with essential cultural knowledge for future direct interactions with Japanese people, emphasising respect for both the food and the host.

This workshop is a key part of a larger initiative by the department, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. It is one of 14 events scheduled for 2025, organised with support from the Eurasia Foundation. This international collaboration reflects UNHAS’ commitment to global academic exchange and the importance of cross-cultural understanding in higher education.

The ultimate goal of such programs is to prepare students to be more than just language experts; they aim to equip them with the skills necessary to succeed in various fields. By teaching crucial social skills, the department aims to develop them into globally competitive cultural ambassadors who can effectively bridge communication between Indonesia and Japan, where etiquette is a vital part of professional and social identity.