Never write on a name card, or toy with it while speaking to the owner. Place it on the table in front of you or stow it in a cardholder. Names carry special meaning in Japan, and your handling of a name card is seen as a reflection of your regard for the owner. There are also rules to keep in mind during conversations. First names, overly assertive tones and friendly pats on the back are out.
Personal space is very important, and Japanese people frown on loud speech.
With lots of young dot-com types and foreign businesses taking advantage of Japan s nascent financial deregulation, pockets of informality are opening up. If your hosts introduce casual banter and first names, follow their lead. But it s best to play it safe. Your informed, polite handling of things may go largely unnoticed, but an impolite approach never does.