What if I don't speak Japanese?

Many Tokyo business professionals speak English, but bring an interpreter for important meetings. Speak slowly and avoid idioms. Confirm understanding frequently.

How long do business meetings typically last?

Formal meetings run 60-90 minutes. The actual meeting is often just information sharing — real decisions happen in smaller follow-up meetings with key stakeholders.

Should I bring gifts?

Small gifts from your home country are appreciated but not required. Company-branded items or local specialties work well. Present them at the meeting's end, not the beginning.

What happens if I make an etiquette mistake?

Japanese business culture allows for foreign visitor mistakes. Apologize briefly if you notice an error, then continue. Over-apologizing draws more attention to mistakes.

How formal should my language be?

Use formal titles (san after names), avoid casual language, and speak in complete sentences. Even in English, maintain formal tone throughout the meeting.

How to Navigate Business Meeting Etiquette in Tokyo

Tokyo business meetings follow strict hierarchy and formality protocols. Arrive 10-15 minutes early, bow upon meeting, exchange business cards with both hands, and wait to be seated according to rank. The most senior person speaks first, and decisions happen after the meeting in smaller groups.

Prepare your business cards properly. Get bilingual cards printed with Japanese on one side, English on the other. Bring 20-30 cards minimum. Keep them in a card case, never loose in your pocket or wallet.
Arrive early and dress conservatively. Show up 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time. Wear dark suits (navy or charcoal), white shirts, conservative ties. Remove coat before entering the meeting room.
Execute the business card exchange ritual. Present your card Japanese-side up with both hands while bowing slightly. Receive their card with both hands, read it carefully, then place it on the table in front of you in order of seniority. Never write on cards or put them in your back pocket.
Follow seating hierarchy. Wait to be seated. The most honored guest sits furthest from the door. Lower-ranking people sit closer to the entrance. Never sit until directed.
Navigate the meeting flow. The highest-ranking person speaks first. Listen more than you talk. Avoid interrupting or disagreeing directly. Real decisions happen in smaller post-meeting discussions called 'nemawashi.'
End with proper protocols. Thank everyone formally. Collect business cards in reverse order of how you received them. Bow when leaving. Send a follow-up email within 24 hours.

What if I don't speak Japanese?: Many Tokyo business professionals speak English, but bring an interpreter for important meetings. Speak slowly and avoid idioms. Confirm understanding frequently.
How long do business meetings typically last?: Formal meetings run 60-90 minutes. The actual meeting is often just information sharing — real decisions happen in smaller follow-up meetings with key stakeholders.
Should I bring gifts?: Small gifts from your home country are appreciated but not required. Company-branded items or local specialties work well. Present them at the meeting's end, not the beginning.
What happens if I make an etiquette mistake?: Japanese business culture allows for foreign visitor mistakes. Apologize briefly if you notice an error, then continue. Over-apologizing draws more attention to mistakes.
How formal should my language be?: Use formal titles (san after names), avoid casual language, and speak in complete sentences. Even in English, maintain formal tone throughout the meeting.