Obama's Bow Draws Both Respect and Criticism

U.S. President Barack Obama is greeted by Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko upon arrival at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo November 14, 2009.

Pictures of the U.S. President Obama bowing deeply to Japanese Emperor Akihito during a state visit to Japan have incensed some commentators, who say the U.S. head of state should not lower his head before foreign crowned heads while experts in Japanese etiquette praised it as an appropriate show of respect.

Former Vice President Cheney said: "There is no reason for an American president to bow to anyone. Our friends and allies don't expect it, and our enemies see it as a sign of weakness."

In Japan, the lower you bow, the more respect you show, from a slight nod of the head to a lean forward of 30 degrees and -- the most respectful of all -- a deep bow bending at the waist by at least 45 degrees.

I will let you be the judge if the President of the United States is above adapting to this greeting in Japan. I do believe it is admirable for travelers to follow the country's protocol regarding gestures and social norms.

This is fundamental East vs West differences in gestures, and how gestures can reflect the personality and culture of the country.

For more information you could check out these books about gestures around the world, or specific to Japan, or check out your local library. I always check out my books before traveling to another country. In another post I will talk about the first time I was in a market in India where I mistook a nod of the head that meant 'yes' as 'yes but I do not want to and I will not give you the lowest price.'

Also in Japan, bowing can also represent an apology.◦

Obama's Bow Draws Both Respect and Criticism