Genkan

Genkan (Japanese玄关) is the input field in traditional Japanese homes or houses, comparable with the wind -catcher in Europe. It forms the transition between the outer ( soto ) and inner region ( uchi ). There the road shoes are on the floor or in a shoe cabinet (下 駄 箱, geta bako ) turned off, because the inner area is to be entered only with special stockings or slippers. The shoes are traditionally placed so that the tips point away from the apartment.

Compared with the predominantly ground level Genkan the subsequent living area ( ima ) is often increased by one step. This are the areas where shoes or slippers are worn, clearly separated. In larger houses the Genkan is often reserved for visitors and guests, while the family members enter through a back entrance.

Also with Genkan the vestibule is referred to the input of a Zen monastery and the entrance to the local guest rooms.

In Korea

In Korea, such vestibule is an essential element of home decor. Immediately at the entrance door to the house or apartment this small area is scheduled, usually a step lower than the heated floor, is to enter with street shoes strictly avoided.

The name Hanja (Chinese土 房, Pinyin tǔ Pang ) is phonetically 토방 ( to bang ) transferred to the Korean.

Pictures

A Genkan, view from the door into the house

View from inside the door

In Korea ( 토방 Tobang ) Here almost all the shoes are turned off completely irregular