Genkan 玄関

The genkan is very important in any Japanese dwelling, no matter how big or small. In Japanese houses you MUST remove your shoes before you enter, and the genkan is the place to do so! There is usually a getabako (下駄箱), or "geta box" where the family keeps all their footwear: shoes, rain shoes, boots, and yes, geta. As a guest, you can keep your shoes in the genkan. The lady of the house may turn the toes toward the door so when you leave you can conveniently slip into them and go on your way. She is not trying to get rid of you!

Genkan. Can you spot the geta?

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