Tokyo Encourages Men to Wear Shorts to Work as Debate Over Office Dress Code Grows
Tokyo's latest summer workplace campaign is encouraging men to swap business suits for shorts in an effort to stay cool during extreme heat. While the initiative aims to improve comfort and reduce energy consumption, it has sparked debate over workplace dress codes, gender expectations, and what some women have described as "leg hair harassment."
Tokyo Expands Summer Dress Code Initiative
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is promoting a more relaxed office dress code this summer through its "Tokyo Cool Biz" campaign.
The initiative encourages workers to replace traditional business attire with lighter clothing, including T-shirts, sneakers, and shorts, as Japan experiences another season of record-breaking heat.
Officials say the goal is to give employees greater flexibility while reducing the need for excessive air conditioning.
Governor Yuriko Koike Pushes Flexible Workplace Fashion
Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike introduced the updated campaign in April as an expansion of the long-running Cool Biz program.
Originally launched in 2005, the campaign encouraged workers to remove jackets and neckties during summer months to conserve energy.
The latest version further relaxes workplace fashion by making shorts more socially acceptable in many office environments.
Mixed Reactions to Shorts in the Workplace
The new recommendation has generated divided opinions among Japanese workers.
Supporters say lighter clothing improves comfort and productivity during periods of intense heat.
Others argue the policy creates unequal expectations, noting that women often still face stricter workplace standards regarding legwear and professional appearance.
The debate has also spread across social media as employees discuss evolving office etiquette.
"Leg Hair Harassment" Becomes Online Talking Point
One of the more unusual criticisms involves what some online users have labeled "leg hair harassment," or "sunehara."
The term refers to discomfort expressed by some women who say they do not want to see male colleagues' visible leg hair in professional settings.
The discussion has fueled broader conversations about appearance standards and whether expectations differ for men and women in the workplace.
More Men Seeking Hair Removal Services
Some grooming clinics report increased interest in laser hair removal among male clients.
According to industry professionals, many men are seeking treatment not only for cosmetic reasons but also because they believe smoother legs are viewed as more appropriate when wearing shorts at work.
The trend reflects changing attitudes toward personal grooming and workplace presentation.
Extreme Heat Drives Workplace Changes
Japan has experienced unusually high temperatures this summer, with meteorologists warning of extreme heat events.
Authorities continue encouraging residents to stay hydrated, use air conditioning responsibly, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
Recent government data also reported thousands of heatstroke-related hospitalizations during a single week, underscoring the health risks posed by prolonged high temperatures.
Cooling Products Gain Popularity
As temperatures continue climbing, consumers across Japan are increasingly purchasing products designed to stay cool outdoors and at work.
Popular items include clothing with built-in cooling fans, portable handheld fans, cooling towels, and sun-blocking umbrellas.
Health experts also recommend gradually adapting to hot weather before peak summer temperatures arrive to reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
FAQ
What is Tokyo's "Cool Biz" campaign?
Cool Biz is a government initiative that encourages lighter workplace clothing during summer to improve comfort and reduce energy consumption.
Why are men being encouraged to wear shorts?
Officials hope that allowing shorts and other casual clothing will help employees stay comfortable during Japan's extreme summer heat while reducing reliance on air conditioning.
What is "leg hair harassment"?
The term, sometimes referred to online as "sunehara," describes complaints from some people who say they feel uncomfortable seeing male coworkers' visible leg hair in professional settings.
Why are some men seeking laser hair removal?
Some grooming clinics report that men are choosing laser hair removal because they believe it improves their appearance and workplace etiquette when wearing shorts.
Why is Japan promoting lighter clothing?
Japan has experienced increasingly severe summer heat, and officials view lighter clothing as one way to help prevent heat-related illnesses while supporting energy conservation efforts.
