a bow in japan is a sign of respect.

He did the right thing.

He is simply showing respect to his imperial majesty

he knows whom to show his respect,the most important thing in Japanese culture are manners and respect

This editing cracks me up. Well for anyone that cares, Princess Diana also showed proper respect to the Emporer by doing two full deep curtsies. Although, she was never a Queen so an Emperor would have heirarchy over her.

Just coming back from Japan. Glad our president respects their traditions. Shows an amazing understanding of foreign cultures in general. This is why is so respected and listened to abroad. Open your mind, travel a bit, you'll see what I am talking about.(Still has no clue what G.W was trying to do while looking for that hidden door in China! Remember those days?)

"[The bow] is part of a greeting, with which one shows his or her willingness for the meeting." - Reiko Kasai, chief instructor at JAL Academy.

No...he is actually right. All the pictures of the Emperor shaking hands with other leaders were not in Japan. While in Japan you bow to the Emperor. It is called following customs. Sorry that Obama pays attention to the customs of the countries he visits.

I don't think there was anything wrong with Obama bowing to the emperor. It was just showing respect for an elderly man. We, the U.S., don't believe in any monarchy, but showing respect by following the custom of the country just seems like good manners.

I think this shows that he is a straight forward person. He carried his umbrella while stepping out of the aircraft at Shanghai airport.

It's called respect. We have a president who respects other nations' cultures and customs. Very good. Obama is amazing.

"Get on your knees and tell me you love me"

The bow was originally meant to show opposing generals that they had no sword on their back while maintaining a forward facing angle.

Bowing is an ordinary manner here in Japan so we are not so serious as US citizens...

I think seing the most powerful man in the planet bowing in submission to any man is upsetting to say the least.

Very well put