Etiquette

Before entering their homes, Japanese people remove their shoes to avoid bringing in dirt and soiling the floors. This tradition stems from the fact that traditional Japanese homes featured tatami mats that were used to sit on while eating, and to sleep on as well.

Space

The Japanese pay astute attention to differences in space; the outside world is clearly delineated from the home or inside space. Thus, taking off the shoes is also a sign of leaving the outside world behind, along with its troubles and worries.

Genkan

When removing shoes, do so at the genkan, which is the entry way leading to the inside of a house or apartment. Once the shoes have been removed, take care not to step in the genkan with your socks to avoid bringing dirt into the house.

Getabako

Most Japanese homes feature a getabako or geta box for placing shoes. Etiquette dictates that the shoes must be placed aligned to the side and facing inwards.

Slippers

Most, but not all, homes will provide slippers to be worn inside the house. There are often another pair of slippers for use in the bathroom and bathroom slippers should not be worn on tatami mats.