In contrast to entering the house through the kitchen or the veranda from the garden, the genkan is the formal entranceway to the Japanese home. The original religious significance of this word has faded, but as it is here that shoes are removed, this area represents the division between the "unclean" exterior and the "clean" interior. This delineating function is emphasized by the different material used in the entranceway, compared with those used in the exterior and in the interior; by the stone step where shoes are removed; and by the difference in level between the entry at ground level and the raised floor of the interior of the house.
Because land in metropolitan areas such as Tokyo is at such a premium, ceilings in high-rise buildings are often built low to make maximum use of the available space. Thus the difference in level mentioned above may be reduced to only a few inches. Nevertheless the entranceway is an essential part of every house or apartment, and the difference in level is an important visual clue to inform Japanese that this is where shoes are removed before entering the interior.
As a Storage and Display Area
In addition to the stone step and other accessories—such as a cushion or chair that may be used when removing one's shoes—the entranceway in Japan contains a cabinet for all of the shoes belonging to family members and house slippers which they change into. (Visitors' shoes are usually left on the floor, unless they are staying overnight.) Although umbrellas, coats, and hats are also kept here, in the average Japanese house, the shoe cabinet usually retains a separate identity, and the top of it is used as a display area.
The formal entranceway is decorated to symbolize its role as a buffer between interior and exterior, formal and informal, clean and unclean. Yet, since it is a confined space, decoration is kept to a minimum. Should the head of the house have some kind of collection, part of it may be displayed. Alternatively, seasonal flower arrangements may be placed on a small stand, on a fixed shelf, or on top of the shoe cabinet. Shoji, a single-leaf screen, or a mere wall will provide an attractive backdrop for the display. Instead of freshly cut flowers, flower boxes, potted plants, or bonsai may be displayed.
Suggested layouts for entranceway with and without accessories.
Section of raised interior: (left) with stone step; (right) without stone step.
Placement of shoe cabinet
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