The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is encouraging office workers to wear shorts, t-shirts, and trainers this summer to cope with rising temperatures and reduce energy consumption. Governor Yuriko Koike introduced the "Tokyo Cool Biz" initiative in April, building upon a 2005 national campaign that previously focused on removing jackets and ties. The policy is intended to provide employees with comfortable options during periods of extreme heat, which has reached over 40C (104F) in parts of Japan this month.
The updated dress code recommendations have received a mixed response. A June survey by Gorilla Clinic found that 53.5% of respondents opposed wearing shorts to work, while 46.5% supported the measure. Opponents cited concerns regarding professionalism and physical appearance, specifically body hair. Some female workers have expressed discomfort with the change, using the social media term "sunehara" (leg hair harassment) to describe being exposed to male colleagues' bare legs.
In response to the cultural emphasis on "grooming etiquette," some Japanese men have reportedly sought laser hair removal services. Tokyo environmental official Noboru Watanabe stated that the government's goal is to provide options during severe heat rather than mandate specific attire, provided the clothing is not offensive to others. The initiative comes as Japan faces record-breaking summer temperatures and high humidity, leading to over 4,500 heat-related hospitalizations in a single week this July.