The Saikeirei |
Have you
noticed that in Japan they bow differently in particular circumstances and each
of these have different meanings? This gesture is likely to be used as greeting,
showing respect to people or apologizing, ranging from a slightly nod of the
head to deep bend at the waist.
When you
were in higher position than others, u would probably feel that people talk to
you more politely, they may bow deeper than normal and maybe order the same
food you do at the restaurant. It sounds new to you, right? It is because not
only Japan, but almost all Asian cultures, we have societal ranking, and we
rely on that to behave appropriately. This is practiced in both daily life and
business situations.
If you planned
to join the working environment in Japan, a 45 degree bow of the upper body
(called Saikeirei) is the thing you have to do when your boss gets angry at
you. Moreover, this could be used in situations you need to apologize and show
regret.
In regards to bowing in business context, I would like to mention a bit how they exchange the business cards. You have to give both hand and do as the diagram.
You might have
noticed that in Asian cultures expressing your thanks verbally or greeting
someone with a simple ‘Hello’ doesn’t
account for the majority of the people (especially in those Japanese classic
films from a decade ago). Instead, normally a slightly nod of the head does the
trick. Take me as an example, this morning a gentleman offered me his seat and
so I slightly nod my head to express my gratitude and smiled.
To sum it
all up, it is great if you know how to bow and do it naturally, otherwise if
you can’t get the hang of matching the bow to the occasion....no worries. The Japanese
do not expect foreigners to do so. However, if you don’t know it, just don’t do
it. Don’t put yourself in this ridiculous situation.
President Obama and Emperor Akihito |
President
Obama didn’t know whether he should shake or bow, then he ended up with a bow-handshake.
Thankfully this little mishap in November 2009 with the Emperor of Japan, Akihito,
was completely forgivable and laughable distant memory.
Nice essay! Learnt many Japanese cultures from this!! Thank for sharing.
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