It is not uncommon to hold a meeting with a Japanese counterpart in a restaurant. Therefore, it’s significant to know the basic etiquette when eating out in Japan. The first major thing to note is that the Japanese love to drink as it represents stress alleviation. If drinking is a problem for you, be sure to inform your host; they may try to get you to drink several times before they stop.
Furthermore, when it comes time for the bill, make an effort (even a small one will do) to pay for it. The Japanese will insist on picking up the tab, but it leaves a good impression if you try to pay anyways. Just keep in mind that it leaves the opportunity for you to pay if they ever visit your home country.
On a last note, since business is usually conducted in restaurants, it is rare that a Japanese business partner will invite you to their home. However, if that does happen, show them your immmense appreciation as their action represents a great sense of trust.
March 24, 2009 at 11:46 PM
You have really interesting topic. I learned a lot by reading your blogs. Japanese and Chinese behave the same(no surprise)in business and eating! You should change your blog title to ” Business & Eating in Japan and China”. Haha…!
March 29, 2009 at 10:46 PM
I was in Japan this past winter and I always saw “salarymen” at restaurants after work having a drink. I should work in Asia since I like food so much haha.
March 29, 2009 at 11:50 PM
It’s interesting that the Japanese encourage drinking in business setting. I feel that in the states its a way for business partners to loosen up a bit but personally I would shy away from drinking with business partners. I wonder if there are good disaster Japanese dinner stories floating around the internet.