
Question
I am visiting Japan for a business trip and I will be meeting a client for the first time. I want to greet them politely. How do I say “Nice to meet you” in Japanese during a formal meeting?

Japango Editor Team
初(はじ)めまして。どうぞよろしくお願(ねが)いします。
Hajimemashite. Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu.
Nice to meet you. I look forward to working with you.
In a formal business setting, it’s important to start the meeting with a polite greeting. “Hajimemashite” is used when meeting someone for the first time, similar to “nice to meet you” in English. Adding “Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu” conveys a sense of looking forward to a positive relationship and cooperation. This phrase can be used in both business and personal contexts, making it versatile for any formal introduction.
Remember to bow slightly when saying these phrases as a sign of respect.