Greeting Customs in Japan
Understanding social customs will give you an edge when meeting people in Japan. Knowing a few Japanese phrases will show your commitment to learn their culture and put everyone at ease.
Other People Are Reading
-
Bowing
-
It is customary to bow when saying hello, expressing thanks, asking someone to do something for you, apologizing or saying goodbye in Japanese. Use a deeper bow to show respect to a superior. Japanese do not usually shake hands in greeting, but bow instead. You may even see people bowing while speaking on the phone.
Introductions
-
When introducing yourself, speak your name clearly followed by "-desu" or "-to mooshimasu," meaning "I am" or "I am called." Then you should say, "Dozo yoroshiku onegai shimasu," which means, literally, "I ask for your good treatment," and is used much like "nice to meet you" in English.
-
Names and Titles
-
Japanese will introduce themselves using their last name before their first. You should address them using their last name unless you are close friends. Always use the appropriate title after the name, usually "-san." For teachers and doctors, use the title "-sensei" after their name. Never attach a title to your own name when introducing yourself.
Business Cards
-
When meeting Japanese in business situations, always have your business card ready to exchange. Bring enough to exchange cards with everyone in a meeting. Exchange cards by standing and facing the other person and passing them your card with two hands. Take your partner's card with both hands and immediately read it. Put the card on the table at a meeting, or in your wallet or briefcase, but do not put it carelessly into your pants pocket.
Common Greetings
-
It is common to greet people with "Ohayoo gozaimasu" (good morning) at your company when meeting for the first time each day, even if it is no longer morning. When leaving the office for the day, people excuse themselves by saying, "Osaki ni shitsure shimasu," which means, "Pardon my leaving before you." Colleagues will respond with '"Otsukare-sama deshita," meaning, "You've worked hard."
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Group of business people working together in the office. image by Andrey Kiselev from Fotolia.com
