Question
I am visiting Japan soon and I’ve heard about the importance of business cards in Japanese business culture. How do I politely ask for someone’s business card in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
名刺（めいし）をいただけますか。
Meeshi o itadakemasu ka?
May I have your business card?
In Japanese business culture, exchanging business cards, known as “meishi koukan”, is an essential and formal process. The phrase “Meeshi o itadakemasu ka?” is a polite way to request someone’s business card.
“Itadakemasu ka?” is a respectful phrase used when asking for something, emphasizing politeness and respect towards the person you are speaking with. You can replace “meeshi” with other nouns depending on what you need. Remember to use both hands and show respect when receiving and presenting business cards.
