Should I bow or shake hands?

Always bow first, even if they extend their hand. A slight bow (15 degrees) is appropriate for business. Many Japanese businesspeople will then offer a handshake after the bow.

Can I speak English in business meetings?

Yes, but speak slowly and avoid idioms or complex phrases. Many Japanese businesspeople understand English better than they speak it. Consider bringing a translator for important negotiations.

What if I make an etiquette mistake?

Acknowledge it briefly with a bow and 'sumimasen' (excuse me), then move on. Most Japanese businesspeople are understanding of foreigners learning their customs.

How long should I expect meetings to last?

Initial meetings often run 60-90 minutes and focus on relationship building rather than decisions. Follow-up meetings can be shorter but expect multiple meetings before reaching agreements.

How to Navigate Business Etiquette and Meetings in Japan

Japanese business culture prioritizes hierarchy, punctuality, and formal respect. Always bow when introduced, exchange business cards with both hands while bowing, and wait for the most senior person to speak first in meetings. Dress conservatively, arrive 10 minutes early, and never interrupt or disagree directly.

Master the business card exchange. Receive cards with both hands, bow slightly while reading the card carefully, and place it on the table in front of you during meetings in order of hierarchy. Never write on it or put it in your back pocket. Present your own card with both hands, Japanese side facing the recipient.
Follow meeting hierarchy strictly. Enter the room in order of seniority, with junior members first. Sit only after being shown your seat. The most senior Japanese person sits farthest from the door. Wait for them to speak before contributing, and address them first when presenting ideas.
Time your communication carefully. Speak slowly and pause between points to allow for translation or processing. Avoid saying 'no' directly - use phrases like 'that could be challenging' or 'we need to consider this carefully.' Build consensus gradually rather than pushing for immediate decisions.
Handle disagreement indirectly. Never contradict someone directly in front of others. If you must disagree, do it privately after the meeting or phrase it as 'another perspective might be...' Silence often means disagreement, not agreement.
Follow proper gift and dining etiquette. Bring small gifts from your home country for key contacts. At business dinners, let your Japanese colleagues order, pour drinks for others (never yourself), and stay until the senior person indicates the evening is ending.

Should I bow or shake hands?: Always bow first, even if they extend their hand. A slight bow (15 degrees) is appropriate for business. Many Japanese businesspeople will then offer a handshake after the bow.
Can I speak English in business meetings?: Yes, but speak slowly and avoid idioms or complex phrases. Many Japanese businesspeople understand English better than they speak it. Consider bringing a translator for important negotiations.
What if I make an etiquette mistake?: Acknowledge it briefly with a bow and 'sumimasen' (excuse me), then move on. Most Japanese businesspeople are understanding of foreigners learning their customs.
How long should I expect meetings to last?: Initial meetings often run 60-90 minutes and focus on relationship building rather than decisions. Follow-up meetings can be shorter but expect multiple meetings before reaching agreements.