FAQ About Japanese Culture

Bowing is an important and common form of non-verbal communication in Japan. It carries cultural significance and is used to convey various social messages, including respect, gratitude, apology, and acknowledgment. The depth and duration of the bow, as well as the context in which it is used, can convey different meanings. Here's an overview of the etiquette surrounding bowing in Japan:

1. Types of Bows:

• Eshaku (会釈): This is a slight nod of the head, typically used in casual and everyday interactions. It's a polite way to acknowledge someone without a formal bow.
• Keirei (敬礼): A deeper bow, where the upper body is bent at about a 30-degree angle from the waist. This is used in more formal situations, such as business settings or showing respect to superiors.
• Saikeirei (最敬礼): A deeper bow, bending at around a 45-degree angle. This is used for showing utmost respect, such as in ceremonies or when expressing deep gratitude.
• Dogeza (土下座): A very deep bow where the person may kneel and touch their head to the ground. This is an extreme form of apology and is rarely used in modern times.

2. Occasions for Bowing:

• Greeting: A slight nod or a keirei bow is often used when greeting someone. The depth of the bow can depend on the familiarity and status of the people involved.
• Thank You: A slight nod or a keirei bow is used to express gratitude, such as after receiving a gift or a service.
• Apology: A deeper bow, often accompanied by verbal apologies, is used to express regret and seek forgiveness.
• Acknowledgment: A slight nod can be used to acknowledge someone's presence or a situation.
• Business Interactions: Bowing is a crucial part of business etiquette in Japan. When meeting clients, superiors, or colleagues, the appropriate depth of bow communicates the level of respect and formality.
• Ceremonies and Rituals: Bowing is an integral part of traditional ceremonies, tea ceremonies, and religious rituals in Japan.

3. Bowing Etiquette:

• Eye Contact: Maintain respectful eye contact during the bow, but avoid staring intensely.
• Position: Keep your hands at your sides or clasped in front of you while bowing.
• Distance: The distance between individuals can affect the depth of the bow. A deeper bow may be appropriate if there's more distance between the parties.
• Hierarchy: The higher the social status or rank of the person you're bowing to, the deeper the bow.
• Returning the Bow: When someone bows to you, it's customary to return the bow with a bow of similar depth.
• Gestures: In addition to the bow, handshakes are also becoming more common, especially in business settings where there's international influence.