Oshibori (おしぼり) is a hot or cold wet towel offered to guests in Japanese hospitality - restaurants, hotels, and other service settings - for refreshing hands and face.
The Custom
- Hot oshibori: Served in cooler weather, warming and cleansing
- Cold oshibori: Served in summer, cooling and refreshing
- Typically provided: Before meals, upon arrival at hotels, on flights
Format
Oshibori may be:
- Small cloth towels (reusable, rolled)
- Disposable paper/cotton packages
- Presented in special holders or on trays
Etiquette
- Use to wipe hands (and face, though some consider face-wiping informal)
- Return to tray/holder when finished
- Don't use on the table or as a napkin
Global Spread
The oshibori concept has spread to:
- Airlines (hot towels in business/first class)
- Western Japanese restaurants
- Upscale hospitality worldwide
The hot towel service on flights directly derives from oshibori.
At Home
Oshibori can be prepared at home:
- Dampen small towels
- Roll tightly
- Heat in microwave (20-30 seconds)
- Serve in basket