Why Must You Take Off Your Shoes Before Entering a House?

When you enter a Japanese home, a Ryokan (traditional inn), or even some Izakaya restaurants, look down immediately. Is there a small step up or a change in flooring material? That is the “Genkan” area. This is the sacred border between the “dirty outside world” and the “clean inside sanctuary.” You MUST remove your shoes here. Stepping onto the raised floor with shoes on is one of the most disrespectful things you can do in Japan.

Because of this culture, your socks are constantly on display. Make sure you are not wearing socks with holes in them! Also, be careful in clothing store fitting rooms. Unlike in the US, you are usually required to take off your shoes before stepping onto the carpet of the changing booth.

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Here is a pro tip to avoid embarrassment. In some traditional places, you will find special “Toilet Slippers” inside the restroom. You wear them while in the toilet, but do not forget to take them off when you leave! Walking back to your dinner table wearing the toilet slippers is a classic tourist mistake that will make everyone giggle.

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