It is acceptable to use a Japanese company interpreter in the first meeting. Once negotiations begin, hire your own interpreter. Both business and personal relationships are hierarchical. Older people have higher status than younger, men higher than women and senior executives higher than junior executives. It is very important to send a manager of the same rank to meet with a Japanese colleague.
Title is very important.
Work is always undertaken as a group. Decision-making is by consensus. Everyone on the work team must be consulted before making decisions. This is a very slow process. The first meeting may focus on establishing an atmosphere of friendliness, harmony and trust.