In Japan, there is a custom of taking off your shoes when entering indoor spaces.
This is an important practice to maintain cleanliness.
It may feel unfamiliar to travelers from overseas,
but knowing the basic rules will help you feel comfortable.
First, when entering a private home, you must take off your shoes at the entrance (genkan).
There is usually a step up, and beyond that point is a no-shoes area.
It is common to change into the slippers provided.
Also, in traditional inns (ryokan) and some hotels, you need to remove your shoes.
Especially in Japanese-style rooms (tatami rooms), you cannot enter with shoes or slippers.
You should walk on tatami either in socks or barefoot.
Additionally, there are situations where you need to remove your shoes at temples, shrines, and traditional restaurants.
If you see a shoe rack or lockers at the entrance, it is a sign to take off your shoes.
On the other hand,
you do not need to take off your shoes in places such as
standard Western-style hotel rooms, shopping malls, convenience stores, or restaurants with chairs.
While staying in Japan, you will find many situations where you need to take off your shoes.
It may not be something you think about until you actually experience it.
Here are some useful items to have just in case.
[Deodorizing Items]
When going out for dinner, such as to an izakaya,
many stylish places have seating styles like "zashiki" (tatami seating) or "horigotatsu" (sunken seating), where you need to remove your shoes.
You may want to enjoy your meal, but then… you suddenly worry about foot odor…
This kind of situation can happen.
Since sprays may not be allowed on airplanes,
we recommend using alternatives such as powders, wipes, or insoles instead.
If you feel uncomfortable not wearing anything on your feet,
it’s a good idea to carry slippers with you for peace of mind.
*Note: Wearing slippers on tatami is considered bad manners, so go barefoot or wear socks instead.
