My boss is American.
He came to our office in Japan for a business trip, and I had an interview with him.
And I was wondering how I should talk to hime at first.
Boss: Hi, how are you?
Me : Good, How are you?
or
Boss : Hi How are you?
Me : Good, thanks.
We don't say "How are you?" to a boss in Japan. but he is foreigner......
Anyway, that day, He and I just said "Hi" to each other.
In Japan, we don't see many news about President Obama bow to Emperor Akihito.
BUT it seems there are a lot of controvercial comments in the US. (and Korea). http://search.japantimes.co.jp/mail/nn20091118a1