Casual — to friend
Cultural · Dining
蕎麦って、音を立てて食べていいんだよ。 — You can actually slurp soba — it's allowed. (Cultural · Dining, Casual — to friend, JLPT N4)
You
蕎麦って、音を立てて食べていいんだよ。
そばって、おとをたててたべていいんだよ。
You can actually slurp soba — it's allowed.
Romaji: Soba tte, oto o tatete tabete ii n da yo. / Reply Romaji: E, hontou? Demo nantonaku haji-zukashii nee.
Reply
え、本当？でもなんとなく恥ずかしいねえ。
え、ほんとう？でもなんとなくはずかしいねえ。
Really? But it feels a bit embarrassing somehow.
Gesture & etiquette
Casual relaxed posture at the soba shop. Smile while explaining — this is a fun cultural reveal. Demonstrate confidently if you're comfortable. If your friend slurps awkwardly the first time, laugh together — the embarrassment shared makes it easier the second time.
Slurping (susuru) soba and ramen noodles is not only acceptable in Japan — it's traditionally considered good etiquette. The intake of air cools the hot noodles and is said to enhance the aroma. Slurping does NOT apply to pasta, soup, or other foods. Foreign visitors often feel uncomfortable slurping; reassuring them that locals expect it can make the meal more enjoyable.