Japan Pt 3

 

Time for some more facts about Japan we will start with the fact that it is the custom to remove shoes before entering a house.

This is a deeply intrenched tradition which is tied to cleanliness, respect and cultural boundaries. In fact, it dates back to the Heian period which was way back in 794. Back then nobles would remove footwear to protect raised wooded floors. However, it became widespread from 1603 thus evolving into the national norm across all social classes.

Now days the removal of shoes is a sign of respect for the homeowner and their space; it reflects the idea that the home is a sacred and private place.

Now many of you like me may wonder why they do this, well shoes carry dirt, moisture and bacteria into a house these things can damage delicate flooring like tatami mats. Tatami mats are used for sitting, eating, and sleeping, so keeping them clean is essential.

Japan’s humid climate makes homes vulnerable to mould, especially during the rainy season—removing shoes helps prevent this.

In Japanese homes there is an area called a genkan, this is a lower entry area where shoes are removed. This space marks the transition from the “soto” (outside) to the “uchi” (inside), reinforcing social and spatial boundaries.

So, what do there wear inside? Usually slippers if not barefoot, however, special slippers are used for bathrooms to maintain hygiene between rooms.

Many wear socks inside their homes, especially in formal settings or during the colder months.

When visiting someone’s home, it is considered polite to wear clean socks after removing outdoor shoes. Bare feet may be seen as too casual or unhygienic. It is normal for people to carry clean socks with them as not to be caught wearing socks with holes, as this would be highly embarrassing.