Understanding the Nomikai
1.1 More Than a Party: The Role of Nomikai in Japanese Business
In the landscape of Japanese corporate culture, few practices are as ubiquitous or as misunderstood by outsiders as the nomikai (飲み会), or drinking party. Far from being a mere optional social gathering, the nomikai is a deeply embedded and crucial extension of the workplace. It is the primary stage for a concept known as nominication (a portmanteau of the Japanese verb nomu, 飲む, "to drink," and the English word "communication"), which refers to the act of building relationships, fostering trust, and deepening understanding with colleagues over drinks. For many Japanese companies, communication does not stop at the end of the workday; it evolves into a different, often more significant, form in the informal setting of an izakaya (Japanese pub) or restaurant.
These gatherings are woven into the fabric of the corporate year, marking a wide range of events and milestones. They include welcome parties (kangeikai, 歓迎会) for new employees, farewell parties (sōbetsukai, 送別会) for departing colleagues, parties to celebrate the completion of a major project, and the two most significant annual events: the bōnenkai (忘年会), or "year-forgetting party," held in December to cast off the troubles of the past year, and the shinnenkai (新年会), or New Year's party, held in January to set intentions for the year ahead.
The fundamental objective of these events is to build rapport and social capital, which are the currencies of a smooth-functioning, group-conscious society. In a work environment where direct confrontation is avoided and harmony (wa, 和) is prized, the nomikai provides a vital space for team cohesion. It is where colleagues get to know each other on a personal level, where unspoken issues can be aired, and where the bonds necessary for effective collaboration are forged and reinforced. For foreign professionals, understanding and participating in this ritual is not just about socializing; it is about integrating into the team and demonstrating a commitment to the collective group, a gesture that can significantly impact one's professional standing and opportunities.
1.2 Hierarchy in a Relaxed Setting: Navigating the Unspoken Rules
Despite the boisterous and informal atmosphere of a nomikai, the strict hierarchical structures of the Japanese office do not disappear; they simply become more subtle. Adherence to a set of unspoken rules is critical for making a good impression and showing respect.
The hierarchy is first expressed through the seating arrangement. The most senior person, such as a department head (buchō, 部長) or president (shachō, 社長), is given the seat of honor, known as the kamiza (上座). This is typically the seat furthest from the entrance, often with the best view or in the most comfortable position. Conversely, the most junior employees are expected to take the shimoza (下座), the "lower seat," which is closest to the door and serves as the position from which to easily place orders or communicate with restaurant staff.
Perhaps the most important rule of nomikai etiquette revolves around pouring drinks. It is a fundamental sign of respect to never pour one's own drink. Instead, one must remain vigilant of the glasses of others, particularly superiors (senpai, 先輩) and senior managers. A junior employee is expected to notice when a superior's glass is getting low and promptly offer to refill it, holding the bottle with both hands. This act of service is often reciprocated, with the superior then offering to pour a drink for the junior. This exchange is not seen as currying favor but as a ritual of mutual respect that maintains workplace harmony.
Finally, the event itself follows a structured progression. No one should begin drinking or eating until the organizer or the most senior person has made a brief speech, which concludes with everyone raising their glasses for a collective toast of Kanpai! (乾杯！). When clinking glasses during the toast, it is customary for a person of lower rank to hold their glass slightly below the rim of a superior's glass, another subtle acknowledgment of the prevailing hierarchy. Navigating these nuances demonstrates cultural awareness and respect, which are highly valued.
1.3 Honne and Tatemae: The Power of Informal Communication
To fully grasp the significance of the nomikai, one must understand the foundational Japanese cultural concepts of tatemae (建前) and honne (本音). Tatemae refers to the public facade, the opinions and behaviors one displays in public to maintain social harmony and avoid conflict. Honne, on the other hand, represents one's true, private feelings and thoughts. In the highly structured and formal Japanese office, communication is almost entirely governed by tatemae, making direct and frank discussion difficult.
The nomikai serves as a culturally sanctioned space where the strictures of tatemae can be temporarily relaxed, allowing for the expression of honne. The combination of a relaxed setting and the consumption of alcohol helps break down formal barriers, encouraging the kind of open, honest conversations that are rarely possible during work hours. This is where junior employees might receive candid feedback, where cross-departmental grievances can be aired constructively, and where a deeper level of trust is built through shared vulnerability.
This dynamic is enabled by the principle of bureikō (無礼講), which dictates that within the confines of the nomikai, the usual rules of etiquette and hierarchy are temporarily suspended. It is considered acceptable, within limits, to become drunk, and things said or done under the influence are generally forgiven or tactfully ignored the following day. This cultural pardon allows for frank and sometimes emotional exchanges between colleagues of different ranks, which can be invaluable for strengthening relationships and resolving underlying issues that might otherwise fester under the surface of office formality.
1.4 Why the Thank-You Email is Non-Negotiable: The Morning-After Ritual
While the nomikai provides a space for relaxed boundaries, the return to the professional world the next morning requires a formal reset. This is where the post-nomikai thank-you email (orei mēru, お礼メール) plays its indispensable role. Sending this email is not merely a polite suggestion; it is a fundamental and expected component of Japanese business etiquette, or bijinesu manā (ビジネスマナー).
This seemingly simple gesture serves multiple, critical functions. It is the primary way to formally express gratitude to the host or superiors for their time, their generosity (especially if they paid for the meal, a common practice), and their effort in organizing the event. By sending a prompt and well-composed email, you demonstrate that you recognize the nomikai as a part of your professional responsibilities and that you are a diligent, respectful, and conscientious individual. It reinforces the positive impression you made during the event and solidifies the relationships you sought to build.
The email's significance, however, runs deeper than mere politeness. The nomikai, through the principle of bureikō, creates a liminal space where the normal hierarchical order is temporarily flattened to encourage the expression of honne. This state of informal equality is essential for building bonds but cannot persist in the structured corporate environment. The workplace must return to its established order. The thank-you email is the critical ritual that facilitates this transition. By sending a formal, sober, and respectful message the next morning, the sender signals their clear understanding that the period of bureikō is over. It is a conscious act of stepping back into the professional framework of tatemae. As the first professional interaction following the informal one, its tone re-establishes and reaffirms the proper hierarchical relationship, showing deference to a superior's position after an evening of relaxed boundaries. It is, in essence, a crucial tool for re-professionalization, ensuring a smooth and respectful return to business as usual.
2: Crafting the Perfect Thank-You Email: A Step-by-Step Guide
2.1 Timing is Everything: When to Send Your Email
In Japanese business culture, promptness is synonymous with sincerity. The impact of a thank-you email is directly tied to how quickly it is sent. The universally accepted best practice is to send the email on the morning of the next business day. This timing is strategic: it shows that expressing gratitude was one of your first priorities upon returning to work, and the details of the evening are still fresh in everyone's minds.
Sending the email too late on the night of the nomikai itself can be seen as disruptive, as your superior may be resting or still commuting. Conversely, waiting until the afternoon of the next day or later can diminish the impression of sincerity and make the gesture seem like an afterthought.
If the nomikai takes place on a Friday or before a public holiday, the email should be sent on the morning of the next working day (e.g., Monday morning). In this case, it is considered good manners to include a brief, polite apology for the delay caused by the break. A simple phrase suffices:
Japanese: 休日にかかってしまいご挨拶が遅くなり申し訳ございません。
Hiragana: きゅうじつにかかってしまいごあいさつがおそくなりもうしわけございません。
Romaji: Kyūjitsu ni kakatte shimai go-aisatsu ga osoku nari mōshiwake gozaimasen.
English: My sincere apologies for the delay in my greeting due to the holiday/weekend.
2.2 Anatomy of the Email: A Structural Breakdown
A proper Japanese business thank-you email follows a clear and consistent structure. Each component has a specific purpose and adheres to established conventions. Mastering this format is essential for conveying professionalism and respect.
The Subject Line (件名 | Kenmei)
The subject line must be clear, professional, and immediately identifiable as a thank-you note. Vague subjects like "Thank you" or "Last night" are insufficient. A critical point of etiquette is to use formal, business-appropriate terminology. Even if the event was a casual drinking party, the subject line should refer to it with more formal words like 「会食」 (kaishoku, meaning dinner or formal gathering) or 「食事会」 (shokujikai, meaning meal party), rather than the colloquial 「飲み会」 (nomikai). Using Japanese corner brackets, 【 】, can also help the email stand out in a crowded inbox.
Good Examples:
【昨晩の会食の御礼】 (Regarding Thanks for Last Night's Dinner)
食事会のお礼 (Thanks for the Meal Party)
お招きいただきありがとうございました (Thank you for the Invitation)
The Salutation (宛名 | Atena)
Correctly addressing the recipient is paramount.
For External Contacts: Use their full company name, title, and full name, followed by the honorific 様 (sama).
For Internal Superiors: Use their title and last name (e.g., 〇〇部長, OO Buchō). It is a common mistake to add sama after a title; this is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided.
The Opening (書き出し | Kakidashi)
Begin with a standard business greeting appropriate to the recipient.
For External Contacts: 「いつも大変お世話になっております。」 (Itsumo taihen osewa ni natte orimasu. - Thank you for your continuous support.)
For Internal Colleagues/Superiors: 「お疲れ様です。」 (Otsukaresama desu. - A standard greeting acknowledging mutual hard work.)
The Body (本文 | Honbun)
This is the heart of the email and should contain three essential elements:
Core Gratitude: Begin with a direct and sincere expression of thanks for the invitation, the person's time, and their generosity. If they treated you to the meal, this is the first and most important point to acknowledge.
The Personal Touch: This is what elevates a generic email to a memorable one. You must include a specific, positive detail from the evening. This demonstrates that you were attentive and genuinely enjoyed the experience. Generic praise is easily forgotten, but a specific comment shows true appreciation.
Comment on the food/venue: "The sashimi at the restaurant you chose was exceptionally fresh and delicious."
Comment on the conversation: "I was particularly inspired by your story about overcoming challenges during the XX project. It has given me a new perspective."
The Forward-Looking Statement: Conclude the body by connecting the experience to your professional life. This shows that you view the nomikai not just as a party, but as a valuable opportunity for growth and relationship-building.
To a superior: "I will take the advice you gave me to heart and apply it to my work starting today."
To a client: "Our conversation has deepened my understanding of your company's vision, and I am even more committed to supporting your goals."
The quality of this email is often viewed as a reflection of your professional character. Managers may use the nomikai to informally assess employees on "soft skills" like teamwork, communication, and interpersonal awareness. The thank-you email serves as the final, tangible piece of evidence from that assessment. A prompt, specific, and thoughtful email demonstrates key competencies highly valued in Japanese business: attentiveness (kikubari), respect for hierarchy, sincerity, and diligent follow-through. A generic, copy-pasted message, on the other hand, signals a lack of engagement and can undermine the positive impression you worked to create. Therefore, this email is not merely a courtesy; it is a strategic performance indicator that can influence a superior's perception and potentially impact future opportunities.
The Closing (結び | Musubi)
Use a standard polite closing phrase to wrap up the email.
Common examples:
「今後ともよろしくお願いいたします。」 (Kongo tomo yoroshiku onegai itashimasu. - I look forward to your continued good favor/support.)
「今後ともご指導ご鞭撻のほど、よろしくお願い申し上げます。」 (Kongo tomo go-shidō go-bentatsu no hodo, yoroshiku onegai mōshiagemasu. - I look forward to your continued guidance and encouragement.)
The Signature (署名 | Shomei)
End with your full, professional signature, including your company name, department, title, full name, and contact information. This is especially important when emailing external contacts.
2.3 Essential Japanese Vocabulary for Your Thank-You Email
Incorporating a few key Japanese phrases correctly will greatly enhance the quality and sincerity of your email. The following are essential terms, presented in the requested format.
Expressing Thanks for the Meal (When Treated):
Japanese: ご馳走様でした。
Hiragana: ごちそうさまでした。
Romaji: Gochisōsama deshita.
English: Thank you for the wonderful meal. (Used to thank someone who paid for your meal.)
Japanese: すっかりご馳走になってしまい、恐縮です。
Hiragana: すっかりごちそうになってしまい、きょうしゅくです。
Romaji: Sukkari gochisō ni natte shimai, kyōshuku desu.
English: I am so grateful for you having treated me to everything. (A very polite and common way to express deep gratitude for being fully treated.)
Praising the Food and Venue:
Japanese: とても美味しかったです。
Hiragana: とてもおいしかったです。
Romaji: Totemo oishikatta desu.
English: It was very delicious.
Japanese: 素敵なお店でした。
Hiragana: すてきなおみせでした。
Romaji: Suteki na omise deshita.
English: It was a wonderful restaurant/bar.
Expressing Gratitude for the Experience:
Japanese: 楽しい時間をありがとうございました。
Hiragana: たのしいじかんをありがとうございました。
Romaji: Tanoshii jikan o arigatō gozaimashita.
English: Thank you for a wonderful time.
Japanese: 大変勉強になりました。
Hiragana: たいへんべんきょうになりました。
Romaji: Taihen benkyō ni narimashita.
English: It was a great learning experience for me / I learned a great deal. (Used when you received valuable advice.)
Japanese: 貴重なお話を聞かせていただき、ありがとうございました。
Hiragana: きちょうなおはなしをきかせていただき、ありがとうございました。
Romaji: Kichō na ohanashi o kikasete itadaki, arigatō gozaimashita.
English: Thank you for sharing your valuable stories/insights.
The phrase gochisōsama deshita carries a cultural weight far greater than its literal translation. It does not simply mean "thank you for the food." In the context of thanking a host, it is a holistic expression of gratitude that encompasses the entire effort they invested in the occasion. This includes the mental labor of selecting a suitable venue, the time spent making reservations, the financial expense, and the social responsibility they undertook to ensure all guests were comfortable and had an enjoyable time. Therefore, when you follow this phrase with specific praise for the food or the restaurant's atmosphere, you are not merely making a culinary observation. You are indirectly complimenting the host's excellent taste, their sound judgment, and their profound consideration for others (kikubari). This elevates a simple "thanks for the meal" into a sophisticated acknowledgment: "I recognize and deeply appreciate the full extent of your effort in creating this wonderful experience for us."
3: Master the Matrix: Templates for Every Scenario
This section provides a series of annotated email templates designed for various common situations. Each template includes the full Japanese text, its readings, and an English translation, along with notes explaining the choice of phrasing and level of formality.
3.1 Scenario: To Your Direct Superior (Who Treated You)
This is the most common scenario. The tone should be highly respectful and express sincere gratitude for both their time and their generosity.
Subject:
Japanese: 昨晩の会食の御礼
Hiragana: さくばんのかいしょくのおんれい
Romaji: Sakuban no kaishoku no onrei
English: Regarding thanks for last night's dinner
Body: 〇〇部長 (OO Buchō / Director OO)
お疲れ様です。△△です。 (おつかれさまです。△△です。) (Otsukaresama desu. desu.) (Hello. This is.)
昨夜はお忙しい中、食事会にお誘いいただき、誠にありがとうございました。 (さくやはおいそがしいなか、しょくじかいにおさそいいただき、まことにありがとうございました。) (Sakuya wa o-isogashii naka, shokujikai ni o-sasoi itadaki, makoto ni arigatō gozaimashita.) (Thank you very much for inviting me to the dinner last night despite your busy schedule.)
その上、すっかりご馳走になってしまい、大変恐縮しております。 (そのうえ、すっかりごちそうになってしまい、たいへんきょうしゅくしております。) (Sono ue, sukkari gochisō ni natte shimai, taihen kyōshuku shite orimasu.) (Furthermore, I am extremely grateful that you treated me to everything.)
普段はなかなか伺えない部長のご経験に基づく貴重なお話を直接お伺いでき、大変勉強になりました。 (ふだんはなかなかうかがえないぶちょうのごけいけんにもとづくきちょうなおはなしをちょくせつおうかがいでき、たいへんべんきょうになりました。) (Fudan wa nakanaka ukagaenai buchō no go-keiken ni motozuku kichō na ohanashi o chokusetsu o-ukagai deki, taihen benkyō ni narimashita.) (I learned a great deal from being able to directly hear your valuable stories based on your experiences, which I rarely have the chance to listen to.)
特に、〇〇プロジェクトに関するお話は、今後の業務に活かしてまいります。 (とくに、〇〇プロジェクトにかんするおはなしは、こんごのぎょうむにいかしてまいります。) (Toku ni, OO purojekuto ni kansuru ohanashi wa, kongo no gyōmu ni ikashite mairimasu.) (In particular, I will apply what you shared about the XX Project to my future work.)
素敵なお店で美味しいお料理をいただきながら、非常に有意義な時間を過ごすことができました。 (すてきなおみせでおいしいおりょうりをいただきながら、ひじょうにゆういぎなじかんをすごすことができました。) (Suteki na omise de oishii o-ryōri o itadaki nagara, hijō ni yūigi na jikan o sugosu koto ga dekimashita.) (I was able to spend an incredibly meaningful time while enjoying delicious food at such a wonderful restaurant.)
今後ともご指導ご鞭撻のほど、よろしくお願い申し上げます。 (こんごともごしどうごべんたつのほど、よろしくおねがいもうしあげます。) (Kongo tomo go-shidō go-bentatsu no hodo, yoroshiku onegai mōshiagemasu.) (I look forward to your continued guidance and encouragement.)
3.2 Scenario: To Senior Management (e.g., CEO)
When emailing a high-level executive, the language must be exceedingly formal and respectful. The focus should be on the honor of their presence and the inspiration drawn from their words.
Subject:
Japanese: 昨夜の会食に際しての御礼
Hiragana: さくやのかいしょくにさいしてのおんれい
Romaji: Sakuya no kaishoku ni saishite no onrei
English: Thank you for the dinner engagement last night
Body: 〇〇社長 (OO Shachō / President OO)
お疲れ様です。△△部の□□です。 (おつかれさまです。△△ぶの□□です。) (Otsukaresama desu. no desu.) (Hello. This is from the Department.)
昨日はご多忙を極める中、私どものために貴重なお時間をいただき、誠にありがとうございました。 (きのうはごたぼうをきわめるなか、わたくしどものためにきちょうなおじかんをいただき、まことにありがとうございました。) (Kinō wa go-tabō o kiwameru naka, watakushidomo no tame ni kichō na o-jikan o itadaki, makoto ni arigatō gozaimashita.) (Thank you very much for taking precious time out of your extremely busy schedule for us yesterday.)
社長のビジョンやお仕事への真摯な向き合い方を直に拝聴する機会を得て、改めて身の引き締まる思いでおります。 (しゃちょうのビジョンやおしごとへのしんしなむきあいかたをじかにはいちょうするきかいをえて、あらためてみのひきしまるおもいでおります。) (Shachō no bijon ya o-shigoto e no shinshi na mukiai-kata o jikani haichō suru kikai o ete, aratamete mi no hikishimaru omoi de orimasu.) (Having had the opportunity to directly hear about your vision and sincere approach to work, I feel newly inspired and motivated.)
このような有意義な場を設けていただきましたこと、重ねて御礼申し上げます。 (このようなゆういぎなばをもうけていただきましたこと、かさねておんれいもうしあげます。) (Kono yō na yūigi na ba o mōkete itadakimashita koto, kasanete onrei mōshiagemasu.) (I would like to once again express my deepest gratitude for you providing such a meaningful occasion.)
本日より一層気を引き締め、業務に励んでまいります。 (ほんじつよりいっそうきをひきしめ、ぎょうむにはげんでまいります。) (Honjitsu yori issō ki o hikishime, gyōmu ni hagende mairimasu.) (Starting today, I will redouble my efforts and dedicate myself to my work with renewed focus.)
今後ともご指導のほど、何卒よろしくお願い申し上げます。 (こんごともごしどうのほど、なにとぞよろしくおねがいもうしあげます。) (Kongo tomo go-shidō no hodo, nanitozo yoroshiku onegai mōshiagemasu.) (I sincerely ask for your continued guidance in the future.)
3.3 Scenario: To a Senior Colleague (Senpai)
This email can be slightly less formal than one to a director, but it must still maintain a clear tone of respect for their seniority.
Subject:
Japanese: 昨日はありがとうございました
Hiragana: きのうはありがとうございました
Romaji: Kinō wa arigatō gozaimashita
English: Thank you for yesterday
Body: 〇〇さん (OO-san)
お疲れ様です、△△です。 (おつかれさまです、△△です。) (Otsukaresama desu, desu.) (Hello, this is.)
昨日は楽しい飲み会にお誘いいただき、ありがとうございました。 (きのうはたのしいのみかいにおさそいいただき、ありがとうございました。) (Kinō wa tanoshii nomikai ni o-sasoi itadaki, arigatō gozaimashita.) (Thank you for inviting me to the fun drinking party yesterday.)
仕事のことからプライベートなことまで、色々なお話ができてとても楽しかったです。 (しごとのこと-からプライベートなことまで、いろいろなおはなしができてとてもたのしかったです。) (Shigoto no koto kara puraibēto na koto made, iroiro na ohanashi ga dekite totemo tanoshikatta desu.) (It was very enjoyable to be able to talk about various things, from work to personal topics.)
支払いもお気遣いいただき、恐縮です。ご馳走様でした。 (しはらいもおきづかいいただき、きょうしゅくです。ごちそうさまでした。) (Shiharai mo o-kizukai itadaki, kyōshuku desu. Gochisōsama deshita.) (I am also grateful for your consideration regarding the payment. Thank you for the meal.)
これからも頼りにさせていただくことが多いと思いますが、どうぞよろしくお願いします。 (これからもたよりにさせていただくことがおおいとおもいますが、どうぞよろしくおねがいします。) (Korekara mo tayori ni sasete itadaku koto ga ooi to omoimasu ga, dōzo yoroshiku onegai shimasu.) (I know I will continue to rely on you often, but I look forward to your continued support.)
3.4 Scenario: To an External Client (You Were the Guest)
When hosted by a client, the email must be formal, prompt, and focused on strengthening the business relationship.
Subject:
Japanese: 【株式会社△△】昨晩の会食の御礼
Hiragana: 【かぶしきがいしゃ△△】さくばんのかいしょくのおんれい
Romaji: ] Sakuban no kaishoku no onrei
English: Thanks for last night's dinner
Body: 株式会社〇〇 (Kabushikigaisha OO / OO Corporation) 営業部 部長 〇〇 様 (Eigyō-bu Buchō OO-sama / Sales Department Director, Mr./Ms. OO)
いつも大変お世話になっております。 (いつもたいへんおせわになっております。) (Itsumo taihen osewa ni natte orimasu.) (Thank you for your continuous support.)
株式会社△△の□□です。 (かぶしきがいしゃ△△の□□です。) (Kabushikigaisha no desu.) (This is from Corporation.)
昨晩はご多忙の中、素晴らしい会食の席にお招きいただき、誠にありがとうございました。 (さくばんはごたぼうのなか、すばらしいかいしょくのせきにおまねきいただき、まことにありがとうございました。) (Sakuban wa go-tabō no naka, subarashii kaishoku no seki ni o-maneki itadaki, makoto ni arigatō gozaimashita.) (Thank you very much for inviting me to such a wonderful dinner last night despite your busy schedule.)
落ち着いた雰囲気のお店で美味しいお料理をいただきながら、〇〇様の業界に対する深いご見識を伺うことができ、大変有意義なひとときとなりました。 (おちついたふんいきのおみせでおいしいおりょうりをいただきながら、〇〇さまのぎょうかいにたいするふかいごけんしきをうかがうことができ、たいへんゆういぎなひとときとなりました。) (Ochitsuita fun'iki no omise de oishii o-ryōri o itadaki nagara, OO-sama no gyōkai ni taisuru fukai go-kenshiki o ukagau koto ga deki, taihen yūigi na hitotoki to narimashita.) (It was an extremely valuable time, where I was able to listen to your deep insights on the industry while enjoying a delicious meal in a calm and pleasant restaurant.)
すっかりご馳走になり、重ねて御礼申し上げます。 (すっかりごちそうになり、かさねておんれいもうしあげます。) (Sukkari gochisō ni nari, kasanete onrei mōshiagemasu.) (Thank you once again for treating me to everything.)
引き続き、貴社のお力になれるよう尽力してまいりますので、今後とも何卒よろしくお願い申し上げます。 (ひきつづき、きしゃのおちからになれるようじんりょくしてまいりますので、こんごともなにとぞよろしくおねがいもうしあげます。) (Hiki-tsuzuki, kisha no o-chikara ni nareru yō jinryoku shite mairimasu node, kongo tomo nanitozo yoroshiku onegai mōshiagemasu.) (We will continue to do our utmost to be of service to your company, and we sincerely ask for your continued partnership.)
[Contact Information]
3.5 Scenario: To an External Client (You Were the Host)
Even when you host, a thank-you email is essential. It thanks the client for their time and serves as a follow-up to continue business discussions.
Subject:
Japanese: 【株式会社△△】昨晩の会食の御礼
Hiragana: 【かぶしきがいしゃ△△】さくばんのかいしょくのおんれい
Romaji: ] Sakuban no kaishoku no onrei
English: Thanks for last night's dinner
Body: 株式会社〇〇 (Kabushikigaisha OO / OO Corporation) 営業部 部長 〇〇 様 (Eigyō-bu Buchō OO-sama / Sales Department Director, Mr./Ms. OO)
いつも大変お世話になっております。 (いつもたいへんおせわになっております。) (Itsumo taihen osewa ni natte orimasu.) (Thank you for your continuous support.)
株式会社△△の□□です。 (かぶしきがいしゃ△△の□□です。) (Kabushikigaisha no desu.) (This is from Corporation.)
昨晩はお忙しい中、弊社主催の食事会にご参加いただき、誠にありがとうございました。 (さくばんはおいそがしいなか、へいしゃしゅさいのしょくじかいにごさんかいただき、まことにありがとうございました。) (Sakuban wa o-isogashii naka, heisha shusai no shokujikai ni go-sanka itadaki, makoto ni arigatō gozaimashita.) (Thank you very much for attending the dinner we hosted last night despite your busy schedule.)
〇〇様と仕事から離れた場で様々なお話をさせていただき、大変有意義な時間を過ごすことができました。 (〇〇さまとしごとからはなれたばでさまざまなおはなしをさせていただき、たいへんゆういぎなじかんをすごすことができました。) (OO-sama to shigoto kara hanareta ba de samazama na ohanashi o sasete itadaki, taihen yūigi na jikan o sugosu koto ga dekimashita.) (I was able to spend a very meaningful time having various discussions with you in a setting away from work.)
会食の席でお話いたしました〇〇プロジェクトの件につきましては、社内で検討し、改めてご連絡させていただきます。 (かいしょくのせきでおはなしいたしました〇〇プロジェクトのけんにつきましては、しゃないでけんとうし、あらためてごれんらくさせていただきます。) (Kaishoku no seki de ohanashi itashimashita OO purojekuto no ken ni tsukimashite wa, shanai de kentō shi, aratamete go-renraku sasete itadakimasu.) (Regarding the XX Project that we discussed during the dinner, we will review it internally and get back to you shortly.)
今後とも変わらぬご厚誼を賜りますよう、何卒よろしくお願い申し上げます。 (こんごともかわらぬごこうぎをたまわりますよう、なにとぞよろしくおねがいもうしあげます。) (Kongo tomo kawaranu go-kōgi o tamawarimasu yō, nanitozo yoroshiku onegai mōshiagemasu.) (We sincerely hope for your continued friendship and patronage.)
[Contact Information]
3.6 Scenario: To the Organizer (幹事 | Kanji)
The kanji (organizer) puts in significant effort behind the scenes. Sending a specific thank-you note to them is a thoughtful gesture that will be greatly appreciated. This can be sent separately or included within a group email.
Subject:
Japanese: 昨夜はありがとうございました！
Hiragana: さくやはありがとうございました！
Romaji: Sakuya wa arigatō gozaimashita!
English: Thank you for last night!
Body: 〇〇さん (OO-san)
昨日は飲み会の幹事、本当にお疲れ様でした。 (きのうはのみかいのかんじ、ほんとうにおつかれさまでした。) (Kinō wa nomikai no kanji, hontō ni otsukaresama deshita.) (Thank you for all your hard work as the organizer for the party yesterday.)
〇〇さんの細やかなご配慮のおかげで、非常に楽しい時間を過ごすことができました。 (〇〇さんのこまやかなごはいりょのおかげで、ひじょうにたのしいじかんをすごすことができました。) (OO-san no komoyaka na go-hairyo no okage de, hijō ni tanoshii jikan o sugosu koto ga dekimashita.) (Thanks to your detailed planning and consideration, we were all able to have an extremely enjoyable time.)
お店の雰囲気もお料理も素晴らしく、参加者全員が喜んでおりました。 (おみせのふんいきもおりょうりもすばらしく、さんかしゃぜんいんがよろこんでおりました。) (Omise no fun'iki mo o-ryōri mo subarashiku, sankasha zen'in ga yorokonde orimashita.) (The restaurant's atmosphere and the food were both wonderful, and all the attendees were delighted.)
準備から当日の進行まで、本当にありがとうございました。 (じゅんびからとうじつのしんこうまで、ほんとうにありがとうございました。) (Junbi kara tōjitsu no shinkō made, hontō ni arigatō gozaimashita.) (Thank you so much for everything, from the preparations to running the event on the day.)
3.7 Scenario: The Apology-Thank You
If you inadvertently had too much to drink, made a minor social blunder, or said something inappropriate, it is crucial to address it promptly and sincerely in your thank-you email.
Subject:
Japanese: 昨晩の御礼と、お詫び
Hiragana: さくばんのおんれいと、おわび
Romaji: Sakuban no onrei to, o-wabi
English: Thanks and apology for last night
Body: 〇〇部長 (OO Buchō / Director OO)
お疲れ様です。△△です。 (おつかれさまです。△△です。) (Otsukaresama desu. desu.) (Hello. This is.)
昨夜は大変楽しい会にお招きいただき、誠にありがとうございました。 (さくやはたいへんたのしいかいにおまねきいただき、まことにありがとうございました。) (Sakuya wa taihen tanoshii kai ni o-maneki itadaki, makoto ni arigatō gozaimashita.) (Thank you very much for inviting me to such an enjoyable gathering last night.)
ご馳走になった上、大変有意義な時間を過ごすことができました。 (ごちそうになったうえ、たいへんゆういぎなじかんをすごすことができました。) (Gochisō ni natta ue, taihen yūigi na jikan o sugosu koto ga dekimashita.) (On top of being treated to the meal, I was able to have a very meaningful time.)
その一方で、お酒が進むにつれ、つい羽目を外しすぎてしまい、大変失礼いたしました。 (そのいっぽうで、おさけがすすむにつれ、ついはめをはずしすぎてしまい、たいへんしつれいいたしました。) (Sono ippō de, o-sake ga susumu ni tsure, tsui hame o hazushi sugite shimai, taihen shitsurei itashimashita.) (However, as the evening went on, I'm afraid I got a bit carried away and was very impolite.)
多々ご迷惑をおかけした点もあったかと存じますが、深くお詫び申し上げます。 (たたごめいわくをおかけしたてんもあったかとぞんじますが、ふかくおわびもうしあげます。) (Tatatago-meiwaku o o-kake shita ten mo atta ka to zonjimasu ga, fukaku o-wabi mōshiagemasu.) (I believe there were several points where I may have caused trouble, and I deeply apologize.)
今後はこのようなことがないよう、自らを戒めますので、何卒ご容赦いただけますと幸いです。 (こんごはこのようなことがないよう、みずからをいましめますので、なにとぞごようしゃいただけますとさいわいです。) (Kongo wa kono yō na koto ga nai yō, mizukara o imashimemasu node, nanitozo go-yōsha itadakemasu to saiwai desu.) (I will be more careful to ensure this does not happen again, and I would be grateful for your forgiveness.)
今後ともご指導のほど、よろしくお願い申し上げます。 (こんごともごしどうのほど、よろしくおねがいもうしあげます。) (Kongo tomo go-shidō no hodo, yoroshiku onegai mōshiagemasu.) (I look forward to your continued guidance.)
4: Beyond the Email: Advanced Etiquette and Final Thoughts
4.1 The In-Person Follow-Up
While the thank-you email is an essential formal step, it does not replace the courtesy of a verbal thank you. The morning after the nomikai, when you next see your superior or host in the office, it is crucial to approach them and express your gratitude in person. A simple, direct statement is most effective:
Japanese: 昨日はありがとうございました。ご馳走様でした。
Hiragana: きのうはありがとうございました。ごちそうさまでした。
Romaji: Kinō wa arigatō gozaimashita. Gochisōsama deshita.
English: Thank you for yesterday. Thank you for the wonderful meal.
This double gesture—a formal email followed by a personal acknowledgment—powerfully reinforces your sincerity and demonstrates a high level of respect and social awareness.
4.2 Handling Replies (or Lack Thereof)
After sending your carefully crafted email, do not be concerned if you do not receive a reply, especially from a senior manager. It is very common for superiors to read and acknowledge the email without responding. The purpose of the orei mēru is to transmit your gratitude, not to initiate a new conversation. The act of sending it is what matters.
In some cases, you may receive a brief reply. There is no need to respond further, as this can create an unnecessary email chain. To proactively signal that a reply is not expected and to be considerate of your superior's time, you can add a polite closing phrase to your original email:
Japanese: ご返信には及びません。
Hiragana: ごへんしんにはおよびません。
Romaji: Go-henshin ni wa oyobimasen.
English: There is no need to reply.
4.3 A Note on Modern Nomikai Culture: A System in Flux
It is important for foreign professionals to recognize that the culture surrounding nomikai is currently in a state of significant transformation. While the traditional, hierarchical, and often compulsory nomikai remains prevalent in many older or more traditional companies, a cultural shift is undeniably underway, driven by several factors.
Younger generations of Japanese workers increasingly prioritize work-life balance and personal time, leading to a decline in the perception that attendance at after-work drinking parties is mandatory. Furthermore, there is a growing societal awareness of "nomi-hara" (飲みハラ), or drinking harassment, which includes pressuring colleagues to consume alcohol against their will or mocking those who choose not to drink. Many modern companies are becoming more inclusive, offering more non-alcoholic options and fostering an environment where participation is genuinely voluntary.
This evolving landscape presents a complex social challenge. A foreign professional is entering a work culture that is actively negotiating its own traditions. Senior managers may still view nomikai participation as a key indicator of company loyalty, while younger colleagues may see it as an outdated imposition. In this context, the thank-you email becomes an even more powerful and strategic tool. By mastering this traditional and highly respectful gesture, a foreigner can demonstrate profound cultural awareness and respect for established norms, thereby earning significant goodwill from senior, more traditional colleagues. This act costs little in terms of time or personal freedom but pays immense dividends in social capital. It allows one to navigate the changing expectations gracefully, showing deference to the old guard without necessarily having to commit to every time-intensive demand of the traditional nomikai culture.
4.4 Conclusion: Building Bridges, One Email at a Time
The post-nomikai thank-you email is far more than a simple courtesy. It is a nuanced, strategic communication that functions at multiple levels of Japanese corporate culture. It is a tool for re-establishing professional hierarchy after a night of informal bonding, a performance indicator of one's diligence and social awareness, and a bridge between evolving cultural norms.
For the foreign professional in Japan, mastering this small but significant act can have a disproportionately large and positive impact on one's career. It signals respect, cultural intelligence, and a genuine desire to build strong, harmonious relationships within the workplace. In a culture where the quality of relationships is often the bedrock of professional success, the art of the thank-you email is an essential skill for building bridges and forging a successful path.
Comments
Post a Comment