Meeting Japanese Parents For First Time - What do you do?

Since I am married to a Japanese woman, I know the first impression is very important.  What do you recommend to some of the other newbies in Japan that are meeting the Japanese parents for the first time.  What should they say, or not say.  What should they bring as a gift?

The best advice I would have is to learn the basic introductions in Japanese and learn how to bow properly. If the parents don't hate gaijin, then that simple gesture should endear them to you. The gift I brought was a bottle of Jack for her father (I asked what his favourite was). I also brought flowers for her mother. The tip I have is to ask questions ahead of time and try not to be nervous. They are gonna be nervous too. Many times you will be the first foreigner (gaijin) in their home.

Be careful about flowers. They have a different connotation in Japanese culture and in most/many cases signify death. It's risky but if your wife chooses the arrangement I'm sure she'll steer you straight. A more common gift would be a gift cake or fruit basket. Buy them on the economy, not on base. There are special arrangements of cakes or fruit arranged specifically for giving. You will find them outrageously expensive, for instance $50 for a few oranges and pears, but on the other hand consider it an investment in your future. That, with proper bowing, will set you up for a long and fruitful relationship with your in-laws. Make sure you bow lower than they do, and don't shake hands or hug.

oh, and the JD will be appreciated in any culture so no prob there.

All good. Best to ask the lady first what the 'rents would appreciate. Everyone's different. My ex's lived on the side of a mountain in Toyama prefecture at the north-western end of the Japan Alps. After a 6-hour drive in August the ol' man poured us a beer, we chatted for a bit and he sent us off to the bath. Of course we were in our early forties at the time. I brought muchies and stuff for the family reunion and a case of Bud cans.