How to greet seniors in Japan? A guide to respectful introductions

According to Japanese cultural norms, showing respect for elders is a deeply ingrained value, and proper greetings are a fundamental part of this tradition. Navigating the correct protocol for how to greet seniors in Japan involves more than a simple 'hello'; it requires understanding bowing, polite language, and context. This guide will help you master the etiquette to ensure your interactions are always respectful and well-received.

Quick Summary

This guide provides detailed instructions on the verbal and non-verbal etiquette for greeting elderly individuals in Japan. It covers essential bowing techniques, the use of formal language and honorifics, and phrases for different situations. Cultural context on hierarchy and showing respect is also explained, offering practical advice for foreigners.

Key Points

• Learn Appropriate Bowing: When greeting seniors, use a deeper, more prolonged bow (a keirei or saikeirei) of 30 to 45 degrees to show sincere respect.

• Use Formal Language: Always use polite language (teineigo) and honorifics like -san when addressing seniors, and avoid casual, informal speech.

• Master Verbal Greetings: Use time-specific greetings like Ohayou gozaimasu (Good morning) and Konbanwa (Good evening) rather than informal versions.

• Avoid Direct Addressing: If you don't know their name, use Sumimasen (Excuse me) to get a senior's attention, instead of potentially rude terms like Ojisan or Obasan.

• Use Honorifics Correctly: Attach -san to a senior's family name (e.g., Suzuki-san) to convey respect. Reserve -sama for those of very high status.

• Watch Your Eye Contact: Bow with your gaze directed downwards, as prolonged eye contact can be seen as aggressive in Japanese culture.

• Do Not Combine Gestures: Never bow while shaking hands simultaneously; if a senior offers a handshake, accept it without bowing.

• Observe Your Surroundings: Pay attention to how Japanese people interact with one another to pick up on contextual cues for bowing and speech formality.

The Cultural Foundation of Respect for Elders

In Japan, the concept of keigo (honorific language) and social hierarchy plays a central role in communication. Respect for elders (kōrei-sha) is a core pillar of society, influenced by both Confucian and Buddhist philosophies. This respect is reflected in all forms of interaction, especially greetings. The elderly are seen as having earned a high status through their life experience, and their wisdom and contributions to society are deeply valued. For a visitor, demonstrating an effort to follow these cultural norms is more important than achieving perfection. A sincere attempt, combined with a polite demeanor, is always appreciated.

Verbal Greetings and Polite Language

When speaking to a senior, using the proper level of politeness is crucial. In Japanese, this is typically the formal or honorific form of a word or phrase, known as teineigo or keigo. Casual language is reserved for friends and family of a similar or younger age and should be avoided with elders unless explicitly invited to be less formal.

• For morning: Use Ohayou gozaimasu (おはようございます), the polite form of “Good morning”. The casual version, ohayou, is inappropriate for seniors.
• For afternoon: Use Konnichiwa (こんにちは), which is a standard, polite greeting for the daytime.
• For evening: Use Konbanwa (こんばんは), a respectful greeting for the evening.
• To get attention: If you don’t know their name, the most respectful way to get a senior's attention is by saying Sumimasen (すみません), which means “Excuse me”. Avoid calling them Ojisan or Obasan (uncle or auntie) unless you are close family, as it can be rude.
• When you first meet: A polite and appropriate phrase is Hajimemashite (はじめまして), which means “Nice to meet you”.

The Art of Bowing (Ojigi)

Bowing is the standard greeting in Japan and is a vital component of showing respect. The depth and duration of the bow are determined by the social relationship between the individuals. When bowing to a senior, a deeper bow is required than for someone of equal status.

1. Posture: Stand with your feet together and your back straight. For men, hands should be at your sides; for women, hands should be clasped in front.
2. Angle: A bow of 30 to 45 degrees is appropriate for a senior or superior. This is known as a keirei or saikeirei.
3. Timing: Bow smoothly and deliberately. Inhale as you bow down, hold for a moment, then exhale as you rise. Do not rush the movement.
4. Eye Contact: It is proper to avert your eyes downwards during the bow, as prolonged eye contact is considered aggressive or confrontational.
5. What to Avoid: Never combine a bow with a handshake, as this can be awkward and confusing. If a senior offers a handshake, accept it, but do not bow simultaneously.

Using Honorifics Correctly

Honorifics, or titles added to a name, are crucial for showing respect. Using the correct one is a sign of good manners.

• -san (さん): The most common and versatile honorific, added to the end of a family name. It is suitable for most situations and is the safest option when you are unsure. For example, Suzuki-san. Using a senior's first name with -san is only appropriate if you have a closer relationship and their permission.
• -sama (さま): A higher level of respect than -san, reserved for very important guests, customers, or superiors. You would not typically use this for a casual greeting with a senior unless they are in a position of high authority, like a formal host.
• Sensei (先生): Used for teachers, doctors, lawyers, and other masters of their craft, regardless of age. For instance, a student would address an older piano teacher as Sensei.

Comparison Table: Formal vs. Casual Greetings

Aspect	Formal (for Seniors)	Casual (for Peers/Younger)
Bowing	Deeper bow (30-45 degrees) with a longer hold.	A slight nod of the head (eshaku) is sufficient.
Language	Use keigo or teineigo (honorific/polite language).	Use kudaketa nihongo (casual language).
Verbal Phrases	Ohayou gozaimasu, Konnichiwa, Konbanwa.	Ohayou, Yahho.
Addressing	Use family name + honorific like -san or -sama.	Use first name without an honorific, or informal honorifics like -kun or -chan.
Gestures	Look down during the bow; maintain a respectful distance.	Eye contact is more common; closer personal space.
Mistakes	A sincere effort is appreciated; a minor misstep is likely overlooked.	Misusing casual greetings with seniors is considered rude.

Conclusion

Navigating how to greet seniors in Japan respectfully is a nuanced but achievable goal for any visitor. By combining the proper bowing technique with formal verbal greetings and the correct use of honorifics, you can demonstrate genuine respect for Japanese culture and its veneration of elders. Remember to observe and follow the lead of the Japanese people around you, as context is everything. Your polite gestures will not only foster positive interactions but also leave a lasting impression of cultural sensitivity. The Japanese value of harmony ensures that a thoughtful approach, even with imperfections, will be received with warmth and kindness.

For more information on general Japanese etiquette and travel tips, consider visiting the Japan National Tourism Organization website for helpful resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay for a foreigner to not know how to bow correctly?

Most Japanese people do not expect foreigners to know all the intricate rules of bowing. Showing a sincere effort and giving a small, courteous nod is usually sufficient and will be appreciated.

What is the most basic, universally respectful greeting for seniors?

A combination of a polite bow (keirei) and saying a time-appropriate, formal greeting like Ohayou gozaimasu (good morning) or Konnichiwa (good afternoon) is the most universally respectful approach.

Should I use a senior's first or last name?

It is always safest and most respectful to use a senior's last name followed by the honorific -san. Only use a first name if you have an established, closer relationship and they have given you permission.

Is it disrespectful to ask a senior their age in Japan?

Yes, directly asking a senior their age can be perceived as impolite and intrusive, especially upon first meeting. Respectful inquiry involves using polite language and observing social cues rather than prying for personal information.

What if a senior bows to me first?

In general, a person of lower status bows first. If a senior bows to you first, you should respond with a slightly deeper bow to show respect. This exchange is a common part of Japanese social etiquette.

Can I use honorifics like 'Ojisan' or 'Obasan' for seniors?

No, it is highly recommended to avoid using Ojisan (uncle) or Obasan (auntie) for seniors who are not your relatives, as it can be considered rude and presumptuous.

How do I excuse myself politely from a senior?

To excuse yourself politely, you can say Shitsurei shimasu (失礼します), which means 'excuse me'. When leaving a gathering before a senior, it is polite to say Osaki ni shitsurei shimasu (お先に失礼します), meaning 'excuse me for leaving before you'.