People use various forms of body language to communicate, including bowing, for which the Japanese are known worldwide. When watching television or traveling in Japan, you will notice that there are several angles at which Japanese people bow, sometimes just a slight forward tilt of the upper body, and other times a 90-degree bow. So, what do the different angles of bowing by the Japanese represent?
The Japanese human resources service company, Tokhimo, introduced various bowing manners in Japanese culture on its website. This is a tradition and etiquette of the Japanese people, often displayed in daily life. It is important to understand these manners when interacting with Japanese people, especially in a business setting.
The company noted that Japanese bowing comes in several forms, from informal nods to formal bows. Japanese people use bowing to greet others, show respect, express gratitude, apologize, and convey other emotions, depending on the context and angle of the bow.
There are several ways Japanese people bow, and making a mistake can lead to misunderstanding or even angering the other party. Therefore, making the correct bow is crucial. Here are three bowing styles commonly used in Japanese business etiquette:
Eshaku (會釈):
This is a simple informal bow. When bowing, just tilt the upper body forward about 15 degrees. This gesture is typically used to greet colleagues of the same rank or in casual settings to acknowledge coworkers. The bow should be completed within a short time frame, avoiding looking rushed.
Keirei (敬礼):
This is a formal bow indicating respect, commonly used in business settings, ceremonial occasions, or when showing respect to seniors and superiors. When bowing, the upper body should incline forward 30 to 45 degrees. The waist should bend, but the back should remain straight, with hands naturally hanging at the sides or clasped in front of the body.
The angle of this bow depends on the level of respect being conveyed, ranging from a slight incline to a deep bow. To show sincerity, the bow should be held for a moment before returning to the original posture.
Saikerei (最敬礼):
This is the most formal bow, typically reserved for extremely solemn occasions or to express utmost respect, such as meeting members of the royal family or dignitaries. The bow involves a deep forward tilt of the upper body at an angle of 45 degrees or more, even reaching 90 degrees. Arms should be extended, with hands placed flat on the thighs or knees.
Due to the profound significance of this gesture, it should not be performed casually to anyone or in any setting. Doing so inappropriately may offend others as it could appear as mocking Japanese culture.
In addition to the three bowing styles mentioned above, there is a deep bowing method called Dogeza, often used to convey apologies or extreme reverence, which you may have seen in television or movies. When performing this bow, one must kneel on the ground, touching the forehead to the floor, with hands and elbows placed in front on the ground.
Here are some key points regarding Japanese bowing etiquette:
– Do not bow and shake hands simultaneously. In Western countries, people greet each other with handshakes. Traditionally, the Japanese greet others with bows, but they have also adapted to handshakes when interacting with foreigners. However, when a Japanese person bows to you, you should not extend a handshake at the same time. It is essential to understand the other person’s body language. Separating the bow and handshake is acceptable, but they should not be done simultaneously.
– When bowing, look down. An unwritten rule of bowing is to look downwards and avoid making eye contact with the other person, as eye contact in Japan can be seen as aggressive. While bowing, focus your gaze on the ground or floor, allowing your sight to naturally move with your body’s curvature.
– When bowing to someone of higher status or older age, the posture should be lower. Bowing in Japan is related to social hierarchy. When showing respect to someone of higher status or older age, the bow should be deeper and held for a longer period. It symbolizes humility, but it does not mean that every bow must be at a 90-degree angle.
Apart from bowing, the All Japan Relocation company also introduces other commonly used body language in Japan on its website. Understanding the meanings of these gestures is essential to avoid communication issues when interacting with Japanese people.
– Pointing index finger at oneself: Represents “me.”
– Pointing index finger upward: Indicates number 1 or one person. Often seen at the entrance of restaurants or cafes, customers extend their index finger to inform the server they want a table “for one person.”
– Waving hand: Signifies “come here.”
– Pressing hands together: Signifies a request for assistance.
– Crossing both hands in an “X” shape at the chest: Indicates “No.”
– Crossing index fingers in an “X” shape: Signifies “please pay.” When Japanese people want to pay the bill at a restaurant or cafe, they make this gesture.
– Fingers forming the OK sign: Means OK.