The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

Japan-Handshakes

In Japan, shaking hands has a meaning and action that is virtually
the opposite of that in America. The Japanese use what Americans
call the "wet fish" handshake. This is not firm, barely touching each
other, no actual shaking. You should not look into each others' eyes.
This greeting is literally translated into "my eyes are shamed".
This means that they are not worthy of meeting the other person
(humility).

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; WESTLAND

Date learned: 01-00-1990