Basic Things to Know in Japan

Japanese Business Cards Etiquette Essentials

• In Japan, business cards are called "Meishi", and they are used quite frequently in Japanese business etiquette.
• When doing business in Japan as a foreigner, you are expected to have business cards that are translated into Japanese.
• It is important that your translated Japanese business cards are of decent quality.
• Meishi or Japanese business cards are exchanged at the very beginning of a business meeting.
• Be sure to bow slightly and use two hands when presenting a Japanese translated business card.
• Be sure to bow slightly and take the card using both hands when receiving a Japanese translated business card.
• Upon receiving your Japanese counterparts business card, DO NOT place the business card in your pocket. Be sure to always use a folder, card case, or briefcase.
• During a business meeting, olace all of your Japanese counterparts cards on the table in front of you until the meeting is over. Make sure to examine them also.
• Make sure that you take good care of your translated Japanese business cards.

Social Interaction Essentials

• When greeting your Japanese host, make sure that you bow to them. When bowing to the same height that they do.
• When presenting a gift, make sure that the gift is wrapped. Gifts such as flowers are not recommended. In Japan, certain flowers are presented only in funerals.
• If you are presented with a gift, do not open it until you leave the meeting or event.
• In Japanese etiquette, always remove your shoes when entering someone's house.
• When arriving at a restaurant or a conference room, wait to be seated. Do not seat yourself.
• During a Japanese business meeting do not be the first to sit. In Japanese business etiquette, you should wait to be seated.
• When holding chopsticks, do not use them to point or stick them directly into your food to rest them. In Japanese culture this is done during a funeral service.
• Slurping of noodles and soup is a sign of politeness. It is customary in Japanese culture. Also, be sure not to drink alcoholic drinks directly from the bottle. Always use a glass.
• In Japanese business etiquette drinking is an accepted passtime after work. Whether at the bar or at a restaurant, make an effort to pick up the tab, regardless of the circumstances.
• If your Japanese counterpart insists on paying for dinner or drinks let them pay, but make an effort to pay.
• In Japan tipping is not expected in restaurants.
• Never blow your nose at the table or in a very public location.
• Avoid pointing with your finger or using excessive hand gestures.
• The hand gesture for "ok" means money in Japanese culture. Avoid using it to be safe.

Japanese Business Meeting Etiquette Essentials

• Never be late for any meetings. Punctuality is a valued part of Japanese business etiquette. If possible, do you very best to be early for any meetings or events.
• The Japanese are very relationship oriented so be very friendly and open minded during any business meeting or social event.
• Do everything in your power to not refuse a request as the Japanese are looking for long-term relationships.
• Make sure to have your documents translated into Japanese if you plan on using them during a meeting. This will be expected by your Japanese hosts if you are passing them out.
• Do not write in Red ink and always bring a gift, even if it's a small one.
• Negotiations are not long lived. The Japanese rarely entertain counteroffers, both parties are expected to bring fourth their best offers.
• Never raise your voice or speak with excessive hand gestures during a business meeting.