Why do Japanese people sit on the floor?

Japanese people are apt to sit on the floor for a number of reasons. These reasons include the continuation of tradition and the culture and environment where they live.

In Japan, certain ways of sitting are considered more proper than others. One of the most prevalent and formal sitting styles is called "seiza." This method is performed by kneeling with your legs together, the top side of your feet facing the ground and your buttocks on your heels. Sitting with crossed legs is called "agura."

The tradition of floor seating emphasizes the custom of removing soiled shoes before entering a room where people sit.