Taking Off Shoes in Japan vs USA: The Threshold of Cultural Respect

Have you ever been caught in that awkward moment where you’re not sure if you should take your shoes off—or keep them on? Well, I’ve been there, and it happened during a work party that turned into a full-on culture comedy show.

Let me take you back…

I was working as an inside sales specialist at a Japanese-affiliated company in the U.S. One evening, we hosted a big party at a rented guest house with both Japanese colleagues and American guests. We were rushing around to set up before the customers arrived when I noticed something hilarious.

All the Japanese employees were still wearing their shoes, walking around casually inside.

And then, there was our American manager… barefoot.

He looked up and said, “Well, since it’s a Japanese company party, I thought we should follow Japanese customs and take off our shoes!”

We all laughed. Because here we were, thinking we’re in America—we should follow American rules! It was a moment of mutual respect and total cultural confusion. But it actually led to a great conversation about customs, comfort, and how tricky it can be to balance two cultures.

In the end?

We decided this party would go “American-style.” Shoes stayed on.

Shoes On or Off? The American Way

In the U.S., the “shoes on or off” question isn’t a strict rule—it’s more of a personal preference.

Some people kick off their shoes at the door to keep things clean or for comfort, while others wear them all day indoors without a second thought. You might be invited into someone’s home and never know what to expect. Do you ask? Do you guess? Do you copy what others do?

There’s no universal etiquette, which can actually make it harder for travelers. You just have to read the room (and the socks).

Shoes Off, Please: The Japanese Way

Now let’s step into Japan—where taking off your shoes isn’t just a suggestion, it’s a cultural rule.

In Japanese homes, it’s automatic: shoes come off at the entrance. You’ll see a little step-up space called a genkan (玄関), where you remove your shoes and often slip into indoor slippers. The same goes for traditional restaurants, temples, tea houses, some schools, and even doctors’ offices!

Forget and walk in with shoes? You might feel like you just stepped on sacred ground with muddy boots.

Why It Matters: Cleanliness, Respect, and Space

This custom isn’t just about keeping floors clean (although that’s a big reason). In Japan, there’s a deep cultural value placed on maintaining a boundary between the outside world and the clean, private interior space.

Shoes are considered dirty because they carry dust, germs, and city grime. Taking them off shows respect for the home, the host, and the shared space. It’s a simple but powerful act that says, “I care.”

What Should You Do? (Practical Tips for Travelers)

Here’s how to handle the “shoes or no shoes” situation :

✅ In Japan:

• Always remove your shoes when entering a home.
• Look for signs or a genkan in restaurants or clinics.
• Use slippers if offered (and never wear slippers into the bathroom unless they’re designated ones!).
• Wear clean socks—no holes, please!

✅ In the U.S.:

• Follow the host’s lead. If in doubt, just ask!
• Don’t be surprised if people walk around indoors in sneakers or boots.
• Want to be polite? Offer to take your shoes off—it’s a nice gesture.

Don’t be shy about asking!
One time, I was invited to a baby shower at my American colleague’s house. Almost everyone there was American (except two of us Japanese), and guess what? Every guest asked the host if they should take off their shoes.
It was such a great reminder: asking is totally okay and even expected in many situations. So when in doubt, ask with a smile!

Did You Know?

In Japan, there are designated indoor slippers just for the bathroom — and only for the bathroom!

It’s a mini culture shock moment for many first-time visitors. You switch into the special pair at the bathroom door, and then change back into your regular indoor slippers after.

🚫 Wearing bathroom slippers outside the bathroom? That’s a major no-no!

Your Turn: Shoes On or Shoes Off?

Have you ever had a funny or awkward experience with shoe customs while traveling or living abroad?

What do you do in your own home—shoes off at the door, or comfy slippers all the way?

Drop your story in the comments! I’d love to hear your “oops” moments or your thoughtful tips.

And if you enjoy exploring the little things that make a big difference between cultures, follow along—I’ll be sharing more cultural quirks soon!