Chopsticks, or Kuaizi, have enjoyed more than 3,000 years of history in China and have deeply influenced Chinese life in terms of etiquette, cuisine and living philosophy. The culture of chopsticks is going to apply to become a Shanghai intangible cultural heritage this year, according to the Shanghai Chopsticks Culture Promotion Association.

"Chopsticks, a unique tool for meals and a special invention by the Chinese, have been threatened with losing their historical and cultural luster because of long-time oblivion in the heritage protection field," said Xu Hualong, head of the association.