Taking Shoes On and Off Frequently

Since you take off and put on your shoes many times a day, lace-up shoes can become a hassle.

In Japan, the culture of removing shoes remains in various everyday situations. You may need to take off your shoes not only at traditional inns (ryokan) and private homes, but also at temples, some restaurants, izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), and fitting rooms. Because of this, you will find yourself taking off and putting on your shoes multiple times a day during your trip, which is one of the points that overseas travelers surprisingly struggle with.

In particular, lace-up shoes and boots take a bit of effort to put on and take off frequently. When you are in a hurry during sightseeing or in crowded places where people are lined up, not a few people feel that they should have chosen easier shoes to take off. For this reason, many travelers to Japan choose slip-on shoes or sneakers that are easy to put on and take off.

Also, when removing shoes at an entrance in Japan, there is a culture of neatly aligning them. While it is not a strict rule, arranging them to match your surroundings gives a natural and polite impression. You might be a little confused at first, but experiencing this culture will allow you to feel Japan's unique lifestyle habits and commitment to cleanliness.