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.