Tokyo Workers Can Wear Shorts in Hot Weather

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is encouraging office workers to replace formal business suits with casual summer clothing. The expanded Cool Biz initiative allows employees to wear T-shirts, trainers, and even shorts during extreme heat.

Governor Yuriko Koike introduced the policy in April 2026. Officials say it gives people more clothing options rather than requiring specific outfits. However, the shorts recommendation has received mixed reactions. A June survey showed 53.5% of respondents opposed wearing shorts to work, while 46.5% supported it. Many people expressed concerns about body shape and body hair.

Some women feel the policy is unfair. They point out that while men can wear shorts freely, women may still be expected to wear tights. Some people even use the term "sunehara" or "leg hair harassment" to describe their discomfort with visible male leg hair. Despite these concerns, casual office dress is becoming more accepted in Japan, especially as the country faces record heat and rising energy costs.