Are sandals acceptable in Japan or disrespectful when visiting temples?

I get this question a lot from visitors worried about stepping into Japan’s temples or shrines wearing sandals. Honestly, from my experience living here and traveling all over the country, sandals are generally fine almost everywhere. Japan isn’t super strict about footwear like some cultures might be. But there are a few nuances worth knowing.

At temples and shrines, you’ll often see people removing their shoes before entering certain buildings, especially indoor halls or prayer rooms. This is more about keeping the sacred space clean and showing respect than about the type of shoes you wear outside. Sandals don’t get special treatment—you take them off along with sneakers, boots, or dress shoes if the rules say so.

I’ve worn sandals many times when visiting temples and never had an issue. Usually, you just remove them at the designated spot, step inside barefoot or with socks, and then put your sandals back on outside. It’s quite casual and normal. So don’t stress!

That said, when it comes to other places like upscale restaurants inside high-end hotels, sandals can be a no-go. Those places often expect guests to dress a little more formally, so sandals or very casual clothes might not be allowed. It’s a different kind of etiquette from the temples—more about restaurant dress codes than cultural respect.

Here’s a deeper dive into your sandal questions:

“What if I want to enter a temple building that requires removing shoes but I’m wearing sandals? Do I have to wear socks?”

Not necessarily. Most temples don’t require socks, but if you want to be tidy or warm, you can wear socks. Some locals just go barefoot when inside. The key is just to remove your footwear at the entrance area. Sandals are actually easier to slip off quickly compared to lace-up shoes. So sandals can be convenient for temple visits.

“Are flip-flop style sandals okay, or should I avoid them?”

Flip-flops are fine for casual visits, especially in summer. But if you plan to walk a lot or visit multiple temples, something more secure might be better for comfort. Also, very flimsy flip-flops can feel a bit too casual for some traditional settings, but they’re not considered disrespectful. Just use your judgment based on the place and weather.

“What about sandals in cities or on public transport? Any issues there?”

No problems at all. Japanese people wear sandals on streets, in shops, on trains—just like anywhere else. In fact, many locals switch to sandals in warmer months for comfort. Just keep in mind that some public transport or buildings require removing shoes (rare but possible), but that’s independent of whether they’re sandals or other shoes.

“If I want to visit a fancy restaurant or hotel lounge, do I need to change shoes?”

Sometimes, yes. High-end places in big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto often have dress codes. Sandals might be too casual especially if they look beachy or sporty. It’s best to carry a pair of neat, closed shoes if you plan to dine somewhere upscale. But many casual restaurants and cafes welcome sandals, so it depends on where you go.

“Why do temples ask people to remove shoes regardless of footwear type?”

This tradition dates back to maintaining cleanliness and purity inside sacred spaces. Historically, outside shoes could bring dirt or impurities, so removing them is a way to respect the spiritual environment. It’s less about fashion or what type of shoes you wear and more about the act of leaving the outside world at the entrance. It’s a humble gesture that Japanese people take seriously, but it’s also very common and natural.

To sum up my personal take: sandals are perfectly acceptable in Japan—in temples, on the street, and most public places. Just be ready to remove them when entering temple buildings or certain traditional spots. When visiting high-end restaurants or hotels, check dress codes to see if sandals are allowed. Otherwise, enjoy the freedom to wear comfortable shoes while soaking in Japan’s rich culture!

If you want a casual, authentic experience, sandals are a great choice. They’re practical for Japan’s humid summers and make temple visits easy since you don’t have to wrestle with laces when taking shoes off. From my trips around all 47 prefectures, I can say sandals fit right in with how most Japanese live day to day.

Got more sandal or shoe questions about Japan? Just ask!