1.
seat of honor, head seat
The most prestigious seating position in a room, traditionally the spot furthest from the entrance. In Japanese etiquette, the senior person, guest, or person of highest status sits here.
Common collocations
- 上座に座る (sit in the seat of honor)
- 上座に案内する (guide someone to the seat of honor)
- 上座を譲る (yield the seat of honor)
Cultural note
- The seat furthest from the entrance is 上座
- The seat closest to the entrance is 下座 (the lower seat; also read げざ)
- Guests, superiors, and elders are seated at 上座
- This applies to meeting rooms, restaurants, taxis, and elevators
In business settings, knowing where 上座 is demonstrates proper manners and respect for hierarchy.