Title: Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
Headings: Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
16+ Essential Japanese Gestures, Plus Body Language to Avoid
Why Learn Japanese Gestures?
Gestures and Body Language to Avoid in Japan
Looking people in the eye too much
Spreading out arms and legs
Slouching and hands in pockets
Crossing your arms
Pointing
Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
The King of Gestures: Bowing
1. The “right” way to bow
Look at the ground and bend from the waist, pause for a moment, then stand up straight.
2. Giving and receiving gifts
Yes, No and Not Sure
3. Yes/okay
4. No
5. I don’t know/excuse me
Gesturing to People
6. Referring to yourself
7. Referring to others
8. Beckoning
Counting
9. Counting on your fingers in Japanese
Expressing Feelings
10. Anger
11. Embarrassment
12. Gratitude
13. Determination
More Japanese Gestures!
14. Calling dibs
15. Let’s eat/let’s drink
16. Peace sign
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Content: So before we get into gestures you may actually want to use, here are some gestures and body language that may cause offense. Looking people in the eye too much
While in English-speaking countries looking people in the eye is considered respectful because it shows that you’re paying close attention to what they have to say, in Japan it can be considered too close for comfort, or even aggressive and intimidating. If you’re speaking with someone and they keep staring at their shoes or looking away, perhaps they’re feeling a little overwhelmed by your stare. Try looking to the side a little, or at least glancing down or to the side a little more frequently. Spreading out arms and legs
Anyone who has ever missed out on a seat on the train because someone has spread out wide enough to take up space for two understands how frustrating that behavior can be. Drunk, sleeping salarymen aside, in Japan it’s considered really bad form to take up more space than you need, especially on public transport. And while we’re on the topic of public transport, the people of Tokyo request that you speak quietly and avoid talking on the phone, and always stand up to give seating room to the elderly and people with children! Slouching and hands in pockets
It may be the most comfortable way to stand, but in Japan leaning languorously against a wall with your hands in your pockets is considered to look lazy and messy. Just as it does in the English-speaking world, good posture shows that you’re alert and paying attention. Crossing your arms
This is considered a hostile position, and it’s unlikely that anybody will approach you for a chat if you’re standing with your arms crossed.