Question
I’m planning to visit a Japanese friend’s house and want to know the appropriate way to ask, “Should I take off my shoes?” when I arrive. How do I say this in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
靴（くつ）を脱（ぬ）いだほうがいいですか。
Kutsu o nuida hō ga iidesu ka?
Should I take off my shoes?
In Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering a home. This is done to keep the indoors clean. The phrase “kutsu o nuida hō ga iidesu ka?” is used to politely inquire if it’s appropriate to remove your shoes. “Kutsu” means “shoes,” while “nuida hō ga iidesu ka?” translates to “should I take off?”
This phrase is useful for ensuring you are respectful in Japanese homes. Just replace “kutsu” with another item if you want to ask about taking off something else, like a coat (コート, kōto) before entering. Safe travels and enjoy immersing yourself in Japanese customs!
