Visiting a Home

When visiting a private home, it is customary to ring the bell or knock, then enter when invited by the host. One must always be sure to greet the host upon entering. Visitors should take off their shoes before crossing the ledge from the entrance area into the main part of the house. Slippers are generally provided by the host. It is not the rule in Japanese culture to visit without an invitation, except among very close friends and family. When invited to a home, it is kind to take some sweets as a gift although a gift is not necessarily expected.