In Japan, greetings are formal interactions determined by specific rituals. It is customary to expect foreigners to observe these customs as a sign of respect for their hosts. Greetings exchanged between friends are different from those exchanged between strangers. There are also greetings reserved exclusively for the most respected members of society. Mastering the various greeting methods will allow you to better respect the traditions of the Land of the Rising Sun.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Respect the Japanese Greetings Etiquette
Step 1. Wait to be introduced
Showing up on your own is considered an unkind gesture in Japan. When you can, wait to be introduced, whether it's in a formal or informal setting. This behavior shows that you understand your status in relation to that of the people around you.
Step 2. Take a bow
When it comes to saying goodbye, the Japanese bow out of respect. Foreigners are also expected to adopt this custom. To perform a bow correctly, you must assume the right posture. Bring your heels together and rest your palms on your thighs. There are four types of bow:
- Eshaku. This is a generic greeting used at informal meetings. To do it, you have to bow 15 degrees. Although it is not held for long (one must bow for less than two seconds), it is important to prevent it from appearing rushed;
- Futsuu rei. This bow is done to show respect. It should be maintained by performing two deep breaths, assuming an angle of 30 or 45 °;
- Saikei rei. This bow denotes extreme respect. To execute it, it is necessary to assume an angle of 45 or 70 °. It is appropriate for any occasion and is usually held for two seconds;
- On particularly formal occasions, the bows are deeper and are held longer.
Step 3. Avoid reaching out your hand
In Western countries, the handshake is a widespread and accepted gesture both in formal and informal greetings. However, it is not foreseen by Japanese traditions. When someone is introduced to you, don't shake their hand.
Method 2 of 3: Greet a Similar, Acquaintance or Stranger
Step 1. Say hello to a friend
When you meet a friend, you might say Hisashiburi, which means "Nice to see you again" or "How long!". Hear the pronunciation here.
Step 2. Say hello to someone you've only seen once
When greeting an acquaintance, you could say Mata or to the shimashitane, which means "I see you again" or "We meet again". Hear the pronunciation here.
Step 3. Say hello to a stranger
When you are introduced to someone for the first time, you might say Hajimemashite, which means "Nice to meet you". Hear the pronunciation here.
Method 3 of 3: Greet a Respected Member of the Society
Step 1. Say hello to a person of high social standing
There are special greetings reserved for members of high society.
- When you meet a man or woman of high social status for the first time, you might say Oai dekite kouei desu, which means "Pleased to meet her". Hear the pronunciation here.
- When you meet a man or woman of high social status for the second time, you might say Mata oai dekite kouei desu, which means "It is a great honor to see her again". Hear the pronunciation here.
Step 2. Say hello to a respected member of society
When meeting a highly respected member of society, such as a business owner, it is recommended that you use a slightly less formal greeting.
- If you are meeting him for the first time, you might say Oai dekite kouei desu, which means "I am pleased to meet you" (pronounced).
- If you meet him for the second time, you might say Mata oai dekite ureshii desu. This expression means "I'm glad to see you again". Hear the pronunciation here.
Step 3. Insert an O in front of the informal greetings
In Japan, there are greetings reserved exclusively for people who enjoy higher social status. To make a formal greeting, add an O to an informal greeting.
