The Origin of Oshibori
Theoshibori (Oshibori, Oshibori, or Oshibori) is a a small warm towel presented to customers in a restaurant or bar in Japan to wipe one's hands. It is also used during formal meals.
It was during the Edo period, Edo jidai 江戸時代, that the word oshibori was first used. At the time, it referred to a piece of cloth soaked in a bucket of water that was offered to travelers to help them recover from the fatigue of their journey. By wringing it out (from the Japanese verb *shiboru* 絞る), the expression oshibori stayed.
Franck Salama
What is an oshibori?
Theoshibori is simply a wet wipe designed to help you clean yourself when there is no running water. In general, it is known for providing comfort and is a hallmark of excellent service. It is common to see it served in Japanese restaurants, bars, airports, and even long-distance trains (such as the Shinkansen). Some oshibori are also served on JR Express trains throughout Japan.
Franck Salama