In Tokyo’s fast-paced business scene, first impressions count. And in Japan, that first exchange often isn’t a handshake, it’s the ritual swap of meishi, your business card. Mastering Japanese business card etiquette helps you avoid awkward moments, show respect, and build strong connections from the very start.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn why meishi matter, how to prepare and present your cards, and what to do with cards you receive. We’ll cover format tips, common pitfalls, and even the annual Ebisu shrine festival devoted to business cards. Let’s walk through this step by step so you can network like a pro in Tokyo.
Key point: Nail each stage of card exchange – from design and greeting to storage and follow-up – and you’ll turn a small ritual into a powerful relationship-building tool.
Why meishi matter
In Japan, a business card isn’t just a scrap of paper, it’s an extension of your identity. The word meishi literally means “name paper” and it symbolizes you as a person and professional. Treating it with care shows respect for both yourself and your counterpart.
Symbolism of meishi
- Your card stands in for you when you’re absent
- Presenting it well signals professionalism and attention to detail
- Receiving it gracefully reflects appreciation and openness
Hierarchy in exchange
Japanese business culture values rank and seniority. When cards are swapped, you’ll often see the most senior person exchange cards first. Keep an eye on seating order and introduce yourself in the proper sequence to match the hierarchy.
Prepare your cards
Doing a little homework before you leave home prevents scrambling at the last minute. Here’s what to sort out before your Tokyo meetings.
Design and format
Japanese business cards follow a standard size of 91 mm x 55 mm, fitting neatly into card holders. Include these details on your card:
- Company name and logo
- Your full name and job title
- Department or division
- Office address and phone number
- Email address and website
- Relevant social media handles or slogan (optional)
Citation: For a full breakdown of required fields and typical layout, see Aura Print.
Print bilingual cards
To show cultural awareness, get one side in Japanese, one side in English. You don’t need to translate everything – an English address is fine in kanji. Bilingual meishi make communication smoother and show you value your hosts’ language.
Pack enough cards
Don’t underestimate Tokyo’s networking pace. Bring at least 50 cards for a short trip, more if you’ll attend events. Running out can look unprepared. If you need more while in Japan, English-friendly printers like Mojo Print and K-1 Print can help you top up (Japan Living Guide).
Give your card
Handing over your meishi is a ritual. Follow these presentation steps to get it right.
Presentation steps
- Remove your card from its case just before you reach out
- Hold the card with both hands by opposite corners
- Present it so the text faces the recipient, right side up
- Bow slightly, about 15 degrees, and say your name and company
Bow and greet
A slight bow accompanies the card exchange. You might say, “Hajimemashite, [Your Name] to mōshimasu” (Pleased to meet you, I’m [Your Name]). Learn more polite phrases in japanese phrases for travelers.
Receive cards respectfully
When someone offers you their meishi, it’s your turn to shine. Take a moment to show genuine interest.
Accept with both hands
Just like when you give your card, accept theirs with both hands at waist level. Bow in return and maintain eye contact with the card.
Study the details
Look at the card for a few seconds. Reading it shows respect and helps you remember names and titles. Avoid tucking the card away immediately.
Store in holder
Place received cards carefully in a dedicated card holder, not in your pocket or wallet. If you need to pause the meeting to do this, politely excuse yourself and return quickly.
Avoid common mistakes
Even seasoned travelers slip up. Keep an eye out for these pitfalls.
No writing on cards
Jotting notes on a received meishi is seen as disrespectful. If you need to record details, do it discreetly in a notebook after the exchange.
No pocket storage
Shoving cards in a pocket or wallet can crease or soil them. Always use your card case.
Handle with care
Dropping or fanning cards like playing cards can look careless. Treat each card as if it were a mini resume of the person standing in front of you.
Use a card holder
A sturdy card case is more than an accessory, it’s a necessity. It keeps your cards pristine and your exchanges smooth.
Pick a sturdy case
Choose a slim metal or leather case that opens easily. Test it before your trip to make sure you can grab a card smoothly without fumbling.
Organize received cards
Arrange cards in rank order or by appointment schedule. This helps you reference them quickly during follow-up and shows attention to detail.
Keep cards clean
Wipe your case occasionally to avoid dust or smudges. A clean case reflects well on you and your company.
Ebisu shrine festival
Every January in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward, about 20,000 business cards are ceremonially burned at the Ebisu Shrine. This meishi thanksgiving festival honors past connections and prays for future ones.
What the ritual means
Burning old cards cleanses past ties and invites new encounters under Shinto traditions. It’s a reminder that relationships evolve and deserve gratitude.
When to participate
If you’re in Kyoto in early January and want to observe a unique cultural event, drop off outdated business cards at the shrine’s special mound. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how seriously Japanese take their meishi.
Follow up with contacts
Exchanging cards is just the start. Your next moves turn casual hellos into lasting connections.
Send a quick note
Within 24–48 hours, email your new contact referencing your meeting. A short thank-you demonstrates professionalism and helps them recall your conversation.
Connect on professional networks
If it fits your industry, add them on LinkedIn or a Japanese equivalent like Wantedly. Mention a detail from your chat to personalize the invite.
Store info digitally
Snap photos of each card with a scanning app and tag them by company or date. Digital backups keep you organized even if the paper cards fade.
Key takeaway summary
- Business cards, or meishi, represent you and deserve respect
- Design cards with bilingual sides and full contact info
- Give and receive cards with both hands, a bow, and clear eye contact
- Examine received cards, then store them in a proper case
- Avoid writing on cards or stashing them in pockets
- Join the Ebisu shrine festival to appreciate meishi traditions
- Follow up quickly to cement new professional relationships
Try these steps at your next meeting in Tokyo and notice how smoothly introductions go. Got a meishi moment of your own to share? Drop it in the comments below.
Frequently asked questions
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What does “meishi” mean in Japanese?
“Meishi” literally translates to “name paper” in Japanese. It’s the term for business cards and symbolizes the person who presents it. -
Is it okay to have only English on my cards?
You can, but having one side in Japanese shows respect and helps local contacts read your information more easily. -
What if I run out of cards mid-trip?
Look for English-friendly print shops such as Mojo Print or K-1 Print in Tokyo. They can produce cards quickly even if you’re low on supply. -
Can I store received cards in a wallet if I don’t have a case?
It’s best to use a card holder. If you don’t have one, keep cards flat in a folder or notebook until you can transfer them to a case. -
Do I need to participate in the Ebisu shrine festival?
No, it’s optional. But if you’re in Kyoto in January, it’s a unique cultural experience that honors the role business cards play in Japanese networking.
