If you really want to work for a company that produces high-technology devices, you may have to brush up on your chopstick skills.

Optical equipment maker Mitaka Kohki Co., based in Mitaka, western Tokyo, is renowned for its unique employment examination: Would-be employees are asked to draw their faces, create paper planes and use chopsticks rather than take written tests.

"It is one of the best ways to find workers who are good with their hands," said Giichi Nakamura, 72, the firm's chief executive officer and managing director.