Now several days into my Trip into Japan and from the 14th floor overlooking Tokyo’s Bay, It turns out there is more to bowing in Japan than simply greeting one another. There is an etiquette that gets taught to young Japanese. Here is the breakdown as it has been explained to me today.
There are four bows in total
* Leaning forward at a 15º angle is for passing someone you don’t know in the street or other situation when stopping directly in front of someone else.
* Leaning 30º forward. Is used for normal greetings for everyone.
* 45º forward is considered the “polite” bow when meeting someone for the first time, thank yous and goodbyes.
* 90º forward is seldom used. It is saved for “deep” apologies. So if you see someone bowing way over. Know that a real mistake has been made.
Hi,
I was one of the volunteers you met on your Japan trip. It’s interesting that you wrote about bowing in Japan. Yes, there is a rule on how to bow and on which occasion. It’s an important etiquette for business and business related situations or on formal occasions.
In our daily life, however, we bow more naturally not only just as an etiquette but as a way to express our feelings, as well. Just like in the Western culture you hug and shake hands to express your deep emotions.
For example, when we express our sincere apology to someone, naturally we make a deep bow. The more we feel sorry, the deeper and longer it should be. And it means, “I am so sorry that I’d like to put myself (my head) far below you, ( you and I can’t be on an equal footing.).” We bow very deeply, too, when we express our genuine appreciation, which means, “I’m so grateful to you. I can’t thank you more.” Some people even bow to the phone when they are apologizing to someone over the phone. Again, this way they unconsciously express their feeling of apology.
I’m glad that I got to know ITKT. It will help broaden my view on abroad and Japan, as well.
Thank you.
I hope you enjoyed your stay in Japan.