Japanese Life Rules That Might Seem Foreign To Visitors

Bowing Etiquette In Japan

It's not surprising that bowing is the traditional way to say hello in Japan, but there are a lot of other things regarding bowing that most Westerners don't think about. In Japan, for example, people bow in varied ways depending on the situation. People frequently do a quick, basic bow when they say hello to friends. But in a more formal context, like work, this might be seen as impolite.

People are expected to take a longer and more serious bow in business situations. Of course, not doing so could be seen as a lack of respect.