Bowing in Japan: A Simple Guide
25 May 2026 · Mozhippattru Japanese Language School
Bowing (お辞儀 / ojigi) expresses greeting, thanks, apology and respect. You don't need to be perfect — sincerity matters most.
The main types
- Eshaku (~15°) — a light bow for casual greetings and passing acquaintances.
- Keirei (~30°) — a standard respectful bow for customers and business.
- Saikeirei (~45°) — a deep bow for sincere apology or deep gratitude.
How to bow well
- Bend from the waist with a straight back.
- Keep hands at your sides (men) or clasped in front (women), by common convention.
- Pause briefly at the bottom.
As a learner
A small, sincere bow paired with a polite phrase (ありがとうございます, よろしくお願いします) is always appropriate. When in doubt, mirror the other person.
You'll pick up the nuances naturally by observing and participating.
Arul Prakash founded and personally teaches at Mozhippattru. He cleared JLPT N1 largely through self-study and spent 4 years as a Japanese interpreter for Fujitsu, Toyota and Sango — and now teaches Japanese in Tamil to beginners across India.
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