Formal — to stranger
Cultural · Communication
この度はご縁がありまして、お会いできて光栄でございます。 — I'm honored that fate has brought us together and that we could meet today. (Cultural · Communication, Formal — to stranger, JLPT N1)
You
この度はご縁がありまして、お会いできて光栄でございます。
このたびはごえんがありまして、おあいできてこうえいでございます。
I'm honored that fate has brought us together and that we could meet today.
Romaji: Kono tabi wa goen ga arimashite, oai dekite kouei de gozaimasu. / Reply Romaji: Kochira koso, kouei ni zonjimasu.
Reply
こちらこそ、光栄に存じます。
こちらこそ、こうえいにぞんじます。
The honor is entirely mine.
Gesture & etiquette
Deep bow of 45 degrees, held for 3 seconds. Hands clasped in front of body (women) or straight at sides (men). Maintain calm, dignified posture. Speak slowly and softly — rushing this phrase undercuts its weight.
Goen' (ご縁) is a deeply Japanese concept — a fated, almost spiritual connection between people that goes beyond coincidence. Using it in a first meeting signals that you view the relationship as meaningful, not transactional. 'De gozaimasu' is the most formal copula, suitable for executive-level introductions, important clients, or ceremonial settings. Avoid in casual business contexts — it can sound stiff.