Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Tokyo Allows Shorts for Men at Work
Tokyo has allowed its employees to wear shorts to work for the first time.
This is part of a campaign called 'Tokyo Cool Biz' to help people stay cool during a very hot summer.
Some people like the idea because it makes them more comfortable, but others don't like it because they think it's not professional or they don't like seeing leg hair.
Women also say they still have to wear tights or long skirts, which isn't fair.
Some men are even getting laser hair removal to look better at work.
Japan is having one of its hottest summers ever, and people are using special cooling products to stay safe.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government allows employees to wear shorts to work during a heatwave.
The policy is part of the 'Tokyo Cool Biz' campaign to reduce energy consumption.
Mixed reactions: some welcome comfort, others criticize double standards and leg hair visibility.
Survey shows 53.5% oppose shorts at work, 46.5% support it.
Japan experiences extreme heat, with cooling products and acclimatization urged.
- Who
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government employees
- What
- Policy allowing men to wear shorts to work
- When
- During a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 35°C
- Where
- Tokyo, Japan
- Why
- To keep workers comfortable and reduce energy consumption
Supporters of the Policy
Opponents of the Policy
Comfort and Practicality
Supporters of the Policy
Supporters argue that the policy provides comfort during the heatwave and reduces energy consumption.
Opponents of the Policy
Opponents express discomfort with male colleagues' leg hair and believe shorts are inappropriate for the workplace.
Gender Equality
Supporters of the Policy
Supporters believe the policy should extend to all genders, promoting equality in dress codes.
Opponents of the Policy
Opponents argue that women are still expected to adhere to stricter dress codes, highlighting a double standard.
- Policy Name
- Tokyo Cool Biz
- Initiation Year
- 2005
- Temperature Threshold for 'Kokusho-bi'
- 40°C
- Heatstroke Deaths (July 6-12)
- 7
- Heatstroke Hospitalizations (July 6-12)
- 4,580
- Survey Support for Shorts
- 46.5%
- Survey Opposition to Shorts
- 53.5%