3 ms·
It's funny, when I wear a hat here in Japan and meet someone, I don't know wether to tip my hat or bow. I usually end up doing both in an awkward hat-taking-off
by po 16y ago
It's funny, when I wear a hat here in Japan and meet someone, I don't know wether to tip my hat or bow. I usually end up doing both in an awkward hat-taking-off, hide-behind-my-back and bow ceremony. I don't think Japanese natives have that issue because they weren't taught to take off their hat. They just leave it on and bow.
In the west you would probably bow with your hat held over your chest, left arm behind you (like at the end of a theatrical performance), but in Japan your arms should be at your sides or slightly behind you.
- nandemo 16y agoAs far as I can remember, the last few times I met Japanese people informally they extended a handshake (I don't know if it's a "foreigners can't possibly know how to bow" or a "I want to speak English/act like a Western" thing). In formal situations I'm not wearing a hat.
- po 16y agoIt's neither. Without stereotyping too much, Japanese people generally look for compromise and will seek common ground. The offer of a handshake is part of that. They like to shake hands with foreigners. They do also appreciate a bow in return. But yeah, I agree with you. That's why I take mine off still.