What if I run out of business cards?

Apologize sincerely and ask if you can send your card information by email later. This is considered quite embarrassing, so always bring extras.

Can I exchange cards sitting down?

You should stand up to exchange cards if possible. If you're at a restaurant table where standing is awkward, remain seated but use both hands and bow your head.

What if they don't speak Japanese and I mispronounce their name?

Ask politely how to pronounce it correctly. Most Japanese people appreciate the effort and will help you get it right.

Is it okay to exchange cards with multiple people at once?

No, exchange cards one person at a time, starting with the most senior person present. Give each exchange your full attention.

How to properly exchange business cards in Japan

In Japan, present your business card with both hands, bow slightly, and receive the other person's card with both hands while reading their name aloud. Place received cards on the table during meetings or in a card case, never in your back pocket or wallet.

Prepare your cards before the meeting. Bring more cards than you think you'll need. Keep them in a pristine card case (meishi-ire) or cardholder. Never carry loose cards in your pocket or wallet. Have one side in Japanese if possible, though English-only cards are acceptable for foreign visitors.
Present your card correctly. Hold your card with both hands at the top corners, Japanese side facing the recipient if it's double-sided. Stand up if sitting, make eye contact, and present the card while introducing yourself. Your thumbs should not cover any text on the card.
Bow and speak while presenting. Give a slight bow (15-degree angle) as you present your card. Say 'Yoroshiku onegaishimasu' (pleased to meet you) or simply introduce yourself in English. Present your card before the other person presents theirs if you're the visitor or lower status.
Receive their card with proper respect. Accept their card with both hands, look at it carefully, and read their name and title aloud to confirm pronunciation. Say 'Arigato gozaimasu' (thank you) and bow slightly. Take a moment to actually study the card—don't just glance and put it away.
Handle the card during and after meetings. Place the card on the table in front of you during the meeting, with the most senior person's card in the top right position if you have multiple cards. Never write on it, fold it, or put it in your back pocket. At the meeting's end, place it carefully in your card case.

What if I run out of business cards?: Apologize sincerely and ask if you can send your card information by email later. This is considered quite embarrassing, so always bring extras.
Can I exchange cards sitting down?: You should stand up to exchange cards if possible. If you're at a restaurant table where standing is awkward, remain seated but use both hands and bow your head.
What if they don't speak Japanese and I mispronounce their name?: Ask politely how to pronounce it correctly. Most Japanese people appreciate the effort and will help you get it right.
Is it okay to exchange cards with multiple people at once?: No, exchange cards one person at a time, starting with the most senior person present. Give each exchange your full attention.