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Genkan

Genkan (玄関) are traditional Japanese entryway areas for a house or apartment, something of a combination of a porch and a doormat. The primary function of genkan is for the removal of shoes before entering the main part of a domicile.

Upon entry, it is proper to face one's shoes towards the door in order to easily slip back into them upon exiting. After removing shoes, one must avoid stepping in the genkan with their stocking feet, to avoid bringing dirt into the house. Once inside, generally one will change into slippers, or shoes specifically for indoor wear.

Genkan are also occasionally found in other buildings in Japan, especially in old-fashioned businesses. In schools, genkan are equipped with shoe lockers.


Last updated: 05-03-2005 17:50:55