Ryokan Custom Ignites "Sexism" Debate

Above, a ryokan meal service. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Things are getting strange in this world.

Some people are complaining about all kinds of customs or practices that have been generational in the U.S. and Europe. Many are charging that many practices and customs reek of sexism.

It appears that Japan is not immune to such charges. Visitors to Japan are complaining that a Japanese custom during meal service in ryokans is "sexist". It seems people have nothing better to do than to complain about something.

Japan Today reported:

TOKYO - In Japan, nothing transports you back in time to a bygone era like a stay at a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn. Often found in rural areas, this type of accommodation typically features tatami mat rooms, communal baths and dining areas, and yukata outfits, which visitors wear during their stay while being served by owners and staff in traditional clothing. 

During mealtimes, guests are treated to sumptuous meals, which are often laid out on a traditional low table before they arrive, with things like tea, soup and rice served upon arrival. One of the many traditions guests encounter while staying at a Japanese inn is the fact that at mealtimes, they’ll usually be given a large portion of rice in a tub with a lid, called an ohitsu, which is placed beside the table with a shamoji rice paddle for serving, so that the diners can eat as much rice as they like throughout the course of the meal. 

While it might seem like the ohitsu adds a nice touch to the meal, it’s actually become the subject of intense debate online recently, as the ohitsu is usually placed next to the woman at the table when she’s with a male partner, as it’s assumed she’ll be the one serving him rice during the meal. 

While the traditional role of women as housewives still persists throughout a lot of rural areas in Japan, attitudes are changing, and some people are now questioning whether or not the custom of placing the ohitsu beside women dining with husbands or boyfriends should continue.

If someone who comes to Japan and stays at a ryokan to fully experience Japanese culture but complains that a custom is "sexist", they should do everyone a favor and stay home.

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