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Question
I’m planning a trip to Japan and I’ve heard that it’s common to take your shoes off when entering someone’s home or certain traditional places. How do I politely ask if I need to remove my shoes in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
靴（くつ）を脱（ぬ）いだほうがいいですか。
Kutsu o nuida hou ga iidesuka?
Should I take off my shoes?
In Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering homes, traditional inns, and sometimes in certain restaurants and temples. The expression “kutsu o nuida hou ga iidesuka?” allows you to ask politely if you should take your shoes off.
Kutsu means “shoes”, and nuida hou ga iidesuka is a respectful way to say “should I take off ~?”. This expression shows your awareness of local customs and displays politeness, which will be well appreciated by your host.
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