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 . Categories : Japanese terms | Japanese architectural features | Japanese home In other languages : Deutsch | 日本語 