The Art of Bowing in Japan: More Than Just a Greeting

When visiting Japan, you’ll quickly notice that bowing is a fundamental part of daily interactions. But did you know that bowing in Japan is not just a simple greeting? It carries deep cultural significance, showing respect, gratitude, or even an apology. Understanding the different types of bows and their meanings will help you interact more naturally and respectfully in Japan. Let’s dive into the art of bowing!

Why Do Japanese People Bow?

Bowing, known as “Ojigi” (お辞儀) in Japanese, is more than just a custom—it’s a way of expressing emotions and social hierarchy. Depending on the situation, bowing can indicate:

Greeting: A friendly and respectful way to acknowledge someone.
Gratitude: Showing appreciation for a kind gesture or favor.
Apology: A sincere way to express regret for a mistake.
Respect: Demonstrating politeness, especially in formal settings.

The depth and duration of a bow depend on the context, and there are three common types of bows used in Japan.

The Three Main Types of Bows

1. Eshaku (会釈) – 15° Casual Bow

Eshaku is a small, polite bow of about 15 degrees. It is commonly used in everyday situations, such as:

Greeting colleagues or acquaintances.
Acknowledging someone in a casual setting.
Expressing gratitude in informal situations.

You will often see people slightly nod their heads as they pass each other in offices, shops, or even on the street. It’s a subtle but important gesture that maintains social harmony.

2. Keirei (敬礼) – 30° Business Bow

Keirei is a more formal bow, angled at approximately 30 degrees. This type of bow is commonly used in professional and business settings. You might notice it in:

Business meetings when greeting clients or superiors.
Customer service interactions in stores and restaurants.
Formal introductions and expressions of gratitude.

Interestingly, even when Japanese professionals speak on the phone, they sometimes instinctively bow while talking! This reflects the ingrained nature of respect in Japanese culture.

3. Saikeirei (最敬礼) – 45° Deep Apology Bow

Saikeirei is the deepest and most respectful bow, usually performed at a 45-degree angle or more. It is reserved for moments of great sincerity, such as:

Apologizing for mistakes or serious offenses.
Showing deep gratitude for a significant favor.
Expressing respect in highly formal situations, such as meeting a high-ranking official.

In extreme cases, when an apology is extremely serious, individuals may bow even deeper, almost to the floor. This is known as “dogeza” (土下座), but it is rarely used in everyday life.

How to Bow Correctly

If you want to practice bowing like a native, follow these simple steps:

Keep your back straight – Do not hunch your shoulders.
Lower your head naturally – Avoid looking up while bowing.
Keep your arms at your sides (for men) or folded in front (for women).
Hold the bow briefly – About one second is enough for casual bows, but formal bows should be held slightly longer.
Rise smoothly – Do not jerk your head up too quickly.

Try Bowing on Your Next Trip to Japan!

Now that you understand the meaning and etiquette behind bowing, why not try it yourself? Next time you greet someone in Japan, try a simple eshaku to show politeness. Whether in a shop, meeting a business partner, or thanking someone for their kindness, a proper bow can go a long way in showing your respect for Japanese culture.

Respect and understanding Japanese customs start with a bow. Give it a try when you visit Japan!