When visiting Japan, you might be invited to a local’s home. While it’s an exciting experience, it’s important to remember that entering a Japanese home comes with specific etiquette. How you behave at the entrance, or genkan (店閣), sets the tone for the whole visit.
Japanese homes are considered private, clean, and almost sacred spaces. Understanding and respecting the customs of entering a home is essential for showing politeness and making a good impression.
In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step what to do when you enter a Japanese home, including tips about shoes, greetings, gifts, and more. Let’s make sure you’re ready for a perfect first impression!
Before You Arrive: Preparing for the Visit
1. Bring a Small Gift (Omiyage)
In Japan, it’s polite to bring a small gift called omiyage (お園げ) when visiting someone’s home.
Good gift ideas:
- Snacks or sweets (nicely packaged)
- Fruits (high-quality, often expensive in Japan)
- Regional specialties (from your hometown or country)
- Small household items (cute towels, tea, etc.)
Tip:
- Avoid overly expensive gifts.
- Present the gift with both hands.
- Say: “Tsumaranai mono desu ga…” (つまらないものですが～) meaning “It’s a small thing, but I hope you like it.”
2. Dress Modestly
Appearance matters. Choose neat, clean, and somewhat conservative clothing. Casual is fine, but avoid anything too flashy or revealing.
At the Entrance: The Genkan Ritual
1. Ring the Doorbell and Wait
When you arrive, ring the doorbell and step back a little from the door. Bow lightly when the host opens the door.
Greeting examples:
- “Konnichiwa!” (こんにちは) – Hello!
- “Ojama shimasu!” (お邪魔します) – Excuse me for intruding.
“Ojama shimasu” is the standard phrase to say when entering someone’s home.
2. Remove Your Shoes Properly
The most important rule: Always remove your shoes at the entrance.
How to do it correctly:
- Step inside onto the genkan floor (lower area).
- Take off your shoes while facing the door (not inside the house).
- Place your shoes neatly, toes pointing toward the door.
- Step up into the house, usually onto a raised floor.
Tip: If slippers are provided, put them on immediately after stepping up.
3. Use the Provided Slippers
Japanese hosts often provide indoor slippers for guests. Slippers are meant to keep the inside clean.
Rules about slippers:
- Wear them indoors (except on tatami mats, which we’ll cover soon).
- Never wear the same slippers into the bathroom — there will be special toilet slippers inside.
Common mistake:
- Forgetting to switch slippers when entering/exiting the bathroom!
Inside the Home: Behavior and Manners
1. Bow and Greet Everyone
After stepping in, greet everyone you meet with a slight bow and a smile.
Phrases to use:
- “Ojama shite imasu.” (お邪魔しています) – Continuing to be polite.
- “Hajimemashite.” (初めまして) – Nice to meet you (if first time).
2. Wait to Be Guided
Don’t wander around the house. Wait to be invited further inside or told where to sit. The host will usually lead you to the living area.
Tip: Let the host set the pace. Japanese hospitality includes giving clear directions.
3. Sitting Etiquette
Depending on the setting, you might be asked to:
- Sit on a sofa (Western-style homes)
- Sit on a cushion on the floor (zabuton, 座布団)
- Sit in seiza position (kneeling) if it’s a formal situation
Tip: Sitting cross-legged is fine for foreigners unless it’s a formal event.
4. Handling Food and Drink
If you are offered tea, snacks, or a meal, always:
- Accept politely with both hands.
- Say “Itadakimasu” (頂きます) before eating.
- Say “Gochisousama deshita” (ごちそうさまでした) after finishing.
Tip: Never start eating or drinking until your host invites you to do so.
Special Cases: Tatami Rooms and Bathrooms
1. Tatami Rooms (Japanese-Style Rooms)
Tatami mats are considered clean and sacred.
Rules for tatami rooms:
- Remove slippers before stepping onto tatami.
- Walk barefoot or in socks only.
- Avoid dragging your feet — walk lightly.
2. Bathroom Etiquette
In most Japanese homes:
- Switch to “toilet slippers” before entering the bathroom.
- Switch back to regular slippers after leaving.
Tip: It’s easy to forget! Always check your feet before stepping back into the hall.
When Leaving the Home
1. Thank Your Host Properly
Use these phrases to show gratitude:
- “Ojama shimashita.” (お邪魔しました) – Thank you for having me.
- “Arigatou gozaimashita.” (ありがとうございました) – Thank you very much.
Bow politely and thank everyone again at the door.
2. Put Your Shoes Back On
How to do it gracefully:
- Step into your shoes without dirtying the floor.
- Face the inside of the house when slipping on shoes.
Tip: Some homes have a little bench to sit on for ease.
Quick Table: Japanese Home Etiquette Summary
| Step | Action | Important Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Before Visit | Bring a small gift (omiyage) | Simple, thoughtful gifts |
| At the Door | Say “Ojama shimasu” | Bow slightly when entering |
| Shoes | Remove and align neatly | Face the door when removing |
| Inside | Follow host’s lead | Don’t wander freely |
| Slippers | Use provided slippers | Switch for toilet |
| Food/Drink | Accept politely | Wait to be invited |
| Tatami | No slippers | Walk lightly |
| Leaving | Say “Ojama shimashita” | Bow and thank sincerely |
FAQ
What happens if I forget to say “Ojama shimasu”?
It’s okay! Just bow politely and say it when you remember. Japanese people understand foreigners may not know every custom.
Do I have to bring a gift every time?
For a first visit, yes. For casual visits among close friends, it’s optional but still a kind gesture.
Is it rude to refuse food or drink?
Yes, slightly. Even if you’re not hungry, it’s polite to accept and at least take a sip or small bite.
What if I accidentally step inside with shoes?
Apologize immediately with “sumimasen!” (すみません) and correct it. Japanese hosts are forgiving when they see sincere effort.
Are tattoos an issue when visiting homes?
Not usually. Tattoos are sensitive in onsens (hot springs), but most private homes won’t mind, especially with foreign guests.
Conclusion
Visiting a Japanese home is a wonderful opportunity to experience genuine hospitality. By following these simple yet meaningful customs — removing shoes properly, greeting with respect, handling food and slippers correctly — you will show great appreciation for Japanese culture.
Remember, even small efforts go a long way. A warm smile, a polite bow, and a heartfelt “Ojama shimasu” will ensure you leave a lasting positive impression.
So next time you’re invited to a Japanese home, you’ll know exactly what to do! Enjoy the beautiful experience!
