Slippers in Japan

Slippers lined up at the entrance to Aizu Tsuruya in Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture. (© M-Louis)

Stripy slippers ready for use in a modern wooden-floored home. (© Pixta)

Taking off geta in the entrance hall (left) and a line of zōri. (© Pixta)

Like many religious buildings in Japan, the temple Engakuji in Kamakura asks visitors to remove shoes. (© Nippon.com)

Taking off boots, while sitting on the agarikamachi step, which divides the tataki level from the main house. (© Pixta)

Slippers should be removed before entering a tatami area. (© Pixta)

Typical uwabaki (left; © Pixta) and shelves for storing them at a school entrance (© Photo Library).

Slippers for winter (left; © Pixta) and with acupressure bumps (center; © Pixta); mop slippers (right; © Tatsuo Yamashita).