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Journalism of Courage
As you enter a shop, the staff greets you with a small bow. In a business meeting, colleagues bow before speaking. Even on television, public figures bow deeply when making apologies. For those unfamiliar with Japanese culture, bowing might seem like a simple gesture—but in Japan, it holds deep meaning, reflecting respect, humility, and tradition.
Bowing, known as “ojigi” (お辞儀) in Japanese, is far more than a polite greeting. It’s a fundamental part of communication, a way to express everything from gratitude to apology, and even a mark of social hierarchy. The origins of bowing in Japan stretch back centuries, influenced by Buddhist rituals and samurai customs, and over time, it has evolved into an essential part of daily life.
Let’s take a closer look at the different types of bows used in Japan, their historical roots, and why they still matter today.
The practice of bowing has been deeply embedded in Japanese society for over a thousand years. In the early days, bowing was mostly seen in Buddhist monasteries, where monks would bow before statues of the Buddha as a sign of devotion. However, as Japan’s social structure developed under the influence of Confucianism from China, bowing also became a way to show respect within society—especially toward elders and superiors.
By the samurai era (12th–19th century), bowing had taken on an even greater significance. Warriors would bow deeply before battle to show respect for their opponents, and lower-ranking samurai bowed to their lords as a mark of loyalty. Over time, these traditions spread beyond the samurai class and became part of everyday life for common people as well.
Even today, bowing remains a cornerstone of Japanese culture. While some aspects have been modernized, the deep-rooted meanings behind the gestures remain intact.
Not all bows are the same. Depending on the situation, the depth of the bow and the way it’s performed can change. Here are the main types of bows you’ll encounter in Japan:
1. Eshaku (会釈) – A casual, friendly bow
🔹 What it looks like: A slight bow of about 15 degrees, held briefly.
🔹 When it’s used: In casual greetings, everyday interactions, and business settings when meeting colleagues.
🔹 Example: If you pass a neighbor on the street, you might give them a small eshaku as a polite nod of acknowledgment.
2. Keirei (敬礼) – A formal, respectful bow
🔹 What it looks like: A deeper bow of 30 degrees, held for a couple of seconds.
🔹 When it’s used: In professional situations, such as business meetings, thanking someone for their help, or greeting a senior person.
🔹 Example: A salesperson meeting a client for the first time will bow with keirei to show professionalism and respect.
3. Saikeirei (最敬礼) – The deepest bow for serious respect
🔹 What it looks like: A very deep bow of 45 to 90 degrees, held for several seconds.
🔹 When it’s used: When making serious apologies, showing deep gratitude, or addressing someone of very high status.
🔹 Example: If a politician is publicly apologizing for a mistake, they will use saikeirei to express sincerity.
4. Dogeza (土下座) – The ultimate bow of apology or submission
🔹 What it looks like: Kneeling on the ground with the head bowed to the floor.
🔹 When it’s used: In extreme situations, such as begging for forgiveness or showing complete submission.
🔹 Example: In samurai times, a warrior might perform dogeza to plead for their life before a superior. Today, it is sometimes seen in serious apologies from public figures.
5. Zarei (座礼) – The seated bow used in traditional settings
🔹 What it looks like: A bow performed while sitting in seiza (a kneeling position), often with the hands resting on the floor.
🔹 When it’s used: In formal settings like tea ceremonies, martial arts, and religious rituals.
🔹 Example: If you attend a Japanese tea ceremony, the host will bow in zarei as a sign of welcome and respect.
Today, bowing remains an essential part of Japanese social etiquette, but it has adapted to modern life. You’re not expected to bow as much in informal situations.
For visitors to Japan, understanding the nuances of bowing can make interactions smoother and show a genuine effort to respect local customs. So the next time you’re in Japan, try bowing—it’s a small gesture that carries a big meaning.
