The “Genkan”: Japan’s Traditional Entryway and Footwear Etiquette

A home’s genkan. (© Pixta)

A shoe cabinet used as display space. (© Pixta)

Illustration by Satō Tadashi.

Is a door that opens outward a safety concern? (© Pixta)

In the past, Japanese homes were fitted with wooden or paper sliding doors for ventilation purposes. (© Pixta)