1. Introduction
When traveling to a foreign country, such as Japan, it is important to understand the culture and customs of the people you will be interacting with. One of the most common questions asked by travelers is “Do you shake hands with Japanese?” This article will provide an answer to this question, as well as provide information about the etiquette and customs of handshaking in Japan.
2. What is the traditional Japanese Greeting?
In Japan, bowing is the traditional form of greeting. Bowing can range from a slight nod of the head to a deep bow from the waist depending on the situation and relationship between individuals. Handshakes are not typically used in Japan, but they are becoming more common among younger generations and in business settings.
3. Do Japanese Shake Hands?
Yes, some Japanese do shake hands when greeting each other or meeting for business purposes. However, it is important to note that handshakes are not as common as bows in Japan and may not be appropriate in all situations.
4. Who Should Initiate a Handshake?
It is generally considered polite for the person who initiated contact to extend their hand first when offering a handshake. If you are unsure if it is appropriate to offer a handshake or if you should wait for someone else to initiate it, then it is best practice to simply bow instead of offering your hand.
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5. The Etiquette of Handshaking in Japan
When shaking hands with someone in Japan, there are certain etiquette rules that should be followed:
• Make sure your hands are clean before shaking – this includes both visible dirt/dust on your hands and any body odor that could potentially offend someone else;
• Use a light grip when shaking hands – too firm or too weak can be seen as disrespectful;
• Maintain eye contact while shaking – this shows respect;
• Avoid pumping your hand up and down – this can be seen as aggressive;
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• Do not hold onto someone’s hand for too long – this can make people uncomfortable;
• When releasing your grip after shaking hands, use your other hand to support their arm or shoulder – this shows respect and appreciation for their presence;
• Say something positive after shaking hands – such as “nice to meet you” or “pleased to meet you”;
• Offer a slight bow after shaking hands – this shows respect and gratitude for meeting them;
• If wearing gloves, remove them before offering your hand – gloves can make people feel uncomfortable since they may think they cannot trust you if they cannot see your bare skin;
• Do not offer a handshake if someone has just finished eating or drinking something – wait until they have finished before offering your hand;
• Do not offer a handshake if someone has just washed their hands or taken off their shoes – wait until they have finished before offering your hand;
These etiquette rules should help ensure that any handshake offered will be seen as respectful and polite by those receiving it.
6. When is it Appropriate to Shake Hands with a Japanese Person?
Handshakes should only be offered when both parties feel comfortable doing so – if one person does not want to shake hands then it should not be forced upon them. Generally speaking, handshakes are most appropriate when meeting someone for business purposes or when introducing yourself at social events such as parties or gatherings where everyone knows each other already. In these situations, it would be considered rude not to offer a handshake so make sure you do! However, in more formal settings such as weddings or funerals where there may be many unfamiliar faces present then bowing would still remain the preferred form of greeting instead of offering a handshake unless specifically instructed otherwise by an elder present at the event (such as an older family member).
7 Conclusion
In conclusion, while bowing remains the traditional form of greeting in Japan, handshakes are becoming increasingly common especially among younger generations and within business circles. It is important however that any handshake offered follows proper etiquette rules so that it will be seen as polite and respectful by those receiving it – failure to do so could cause offense which could damage relationships between individuals or even entire companies! Therefore always remember: cleanliness (of both body odor and visible dirt/dust on hands), light grip strength (not too hard nor too soft), eye contact (maintaining throughout), no pumping motion (too aggressive) etc., all go together with proper etiquette when offering/receiving a handshake with Japanese people!
8 FAQs About Shaking Hands With Japanese People
Q1: Is it okay for me to shake my boss’s hand? A1: Yes – provided that both parties feel comfortable doing so then there shouldn’t be any problem with extending a handshake when meeting someone professionally either inside or outside of work related contexts! Just remember proper etiquette rules though! Q2: Are there any cultural differences I need to consider when shaking hands with Japanese people? A2: Yes – some cultural differences include maintaining eye contact throughout (shows respect) using light grip strength (not too hard nor too soft) no pumping motion (too aggressive) etc., all go together when offering/receiving a handshake with Japanese people! Q3: What should I do if I’m unsure whether I should offer my hand first? A3: If you’re unsure whether you should offer your hand first then simply bow instead – this way no one will feel disrespected nor offended! Q4: Is there anything else I need to consider besides proper etiquette rules when shaking hands with Japanese people? A4: Yes – make sure your hands are clean beforehand (including visible dirt/dust on them plus any body odor which could potentially offend others) plus avoid holding onto someone’s hand for too long since this could make them uncomfortable!
9 Resources & Further Reading
• How To Shake Hands With The Japanese | eHow https://www.ehow.com/how_4877449_shake-hands-japanese…. • How To Shake Hands With The Japanese | Tokyo Weekender https://www.tokyoweekender.com/2019/03/how-to-shake-hands-with-the-japanese/ • How To Greet Someone In Japan | Culture Trip https://theculturetrip.com › Asia › Japan › Articles
Is it polite to shake hands in Japan?
Most Japanese do not expect foreigners to know the correct bowing rules and a nod is usually sufficient. Handshakes are rare but there are exceptions especially in international business situations. Business cards are exchanged during presentations in formal meetings.
What is Japanese greeting etiquette?
Bowing is the most common greeting gesture in Japan. The depth length and style of the bow varies according to social background (see below). Handshakes are common in English-speaking Western countries and bowing is common on many occasions.
What is considered disrespectful in Japan?
Pointing at people or things is considered rude in Japan. Japanese people dont point with their fingers they point their hands towards what they want to point to. When talking about themselves people touch their index finger to their nose instead of pointing at themselves.
How do you bow to a Japanese person?
The proper way to bow in Japan is to bend at the waist keep your back and neck as straight as possible put your feet together drop your eyes and stretch your arms out to the sides. extend your hand in front of you. to say hello.
What culture is it rude to shake hands?
For example in some countries and cultures a firm handshake is considered impolite and a sign of aggression. In countries such as China the Middle East North Africa South and West and South America handshakes are usually lighter and longer than in Western countries.
Is it rude to hold hands in Japan?
Just hold hands. In small towns you may be looked down upon if you walk around holding hands with your partner. Try to avoid crowding in rows or public benches at restaurants. Dont look lovingly into someones eyes when other people are around.
