I just had someone claiming to be on an exchange from Japan come to my door trying to sell me something. (His english was pretty miserable, and his accent was about right, so I'm inclined to believe the Japan part.) I went into my usual smile and nod, "sorry, but I'm a poor student" routine - except that ever time I nodded, he bowed. He also bowed when introducing himself and when leaving.
I understand that bowing has a significance in Japanese culture something akin to shaking hands in "western" culture, but I'm not sure on the particulars. My best guess from his reaction to me nodding was that he was interpreting it as something other than the "yes, I'm listening to you" that I was intending. Could anyone shed some further insight on this situation? |
