上履(うわば)き

Indoor shoes worn inside buildings, especially in Japanese schools. Students change into these at the entrance (下駄箱(げたばこ) — shoe cupboard area) when arriving. Typically white canvas slip-on shoes, sometimes with a colored stripe indicating grade level.

Common collocations

• 上履(うわば)きに履(は)き替(か)える: to change into indoor shoes
• 上履(うわば)きを洗(あら)う: to wash indoor shoes
• 上履(うわば)きを忘(わす)れる: to forget one's indoor shoes

Cultural note

The indoor/outdoor shoe distinction is fundamental in Japanese schools, hospitals, and many workplaces. Children are taught from an early age to switch shoes at the entrance. Weekend chore: students often take their 上履(うわば)き home to wash.

Related words

• 外履(そとば)き / 外靴(そとぐつ): outdoor shoes
• スリッパ: slippers (for guests)
• 下駄箱(げたばこ): shoe cupboard/locker