Japan’s Culture and Etiquette of Removing Shoes

Japan’s Culture and Etiquette of Removing Shoes

In Japan, the custom of “removing shoes” is deeply rooted.
Removing your shoes when entering homes or traditional facilities is an important practice that shows respect to the host.
Here, we introduce the shoe-removal etiquette that travelers should know.

---

Situations Where You Remove Your Shoes

• Homes
  In most Japanese households, you remove your shoes at the entrance before stepping inside. Slippers are often provided.

• Certain Restaurants
  In particular, restaurants with tatami rooms or traditional seating may require customers to remove their shoes upon entering.

• Temple and Shrine Buildings
  Depending on the location, you may need to remove your shoes when entering the main hall or other indoor areas.

• Ryokan (Traditional Inns)
  At traditional Japanese inns, you remove your shoes at the entrance and use indoor slippers provided by the facility.

---

Key Points When Removing Shoes

1. Stop at the entrance and neatly arrange your shoes after taking them off
2. Change into slippers or indoor footwear if they are provided
3. Remove slippers before stepping onto tatami mats and walk barefoot or in socks

---

Reference Links

• Japanese Manners and Customs
• Japan Guide: Shoes and Slippers

---

Summary

The practice of removing shoes is part of Japan’s lifestyle and etiquette.
By respecting the rules of each place you visit and being considerate of others, you can enjoy Japan more comfortably and respectfully.