Why does everyone make a big deal about taking shoes off in Japan

[Sinestra]

It has never been odd to me. I grew around mostly Asians so when i went over to their houses its the norm to take off your shoes. Plus in my own house we did so for a number of reasons. Not to track dirt in being the main reason but you can also track unwanted things you pick up on the bottom of your shoes from being outside and they get engraved in your carpet. To this day i take off my shoes before entering a house and will continue to do so and my children will as well.

[Nyororin]

Originally Posted by Sashimister

When did we ever make such a fuss about it? It's all too natural to us that we don't even discuss it.

Ah, but you would make a fuss about it if someone came into your house and didn`t take their shoes off. I think that is what is meant.

[Jaydelart]

Originally Posted by wolfrainvn

You lived in Australia, which state, i now live in South Australia, i migrated to Australia about 6 years ago. And Yes, aussie do have funny accent, i think it's the best english accent cause it is more laidback and relax.

Nice. I mostly lived in the Queensland area.
I can't say I don't miss it. I had a lot of fun there.

[DanielSheen]

Originally Posted by Nyororin

I don`t know how it is in Canada, but is it a 100% rule that no one EVER keeps their shoes on for any reason?

If someone forgot something they may run in and grab it with shoes on...some people may take off. for the most part. Shoes off.

[manganimefan227]

I think Mexico does not, culturally like people only wearing socks inside their houses.

[PockyMePink]

Originally Posted by seiki

As a side note wearing no shoes is much more comfortable anyway.

That's why I always thought it a bit disrespectful to take your shoes OFF, especially if you're not close to the person. You're making yourself too comfortable in someone else's home. Not sure if anyone else feels this way, though...

[Jaydelart]

Originally Posted by PockyMePink

That's why I always thought it a bit disrespectful to take your shoes OFF, especially if you're not close to the person. You're making yourself too comfortable in someone else's home. Not sure if anyone else feels this way, though...

That's a good point. The way I see it, it would be better to offend someone by being too comfortable than trodding mud and dog waste all over their floor.

[PockyMePink]

Originally Posted by Jaydelart

That's a good point. The way I see it, it would be better to offend someone by being too comfortable than trodding mud and dog waste all over their floor.

That's what the door mat is for

[darksyndrem]

Originally Posted by Jaydelart

That's a good point. The way I see it, it would be better to offend someone by being too comfortable than trodding mud and dog waste all over their floor.

Why do you step in dog waste?

[Jaydelart]

Originally Posted by darksyndrem

Why do you step in dog waste?

Because it makes a cool, squishy sound.