Key facts
- The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is promoting a "Tokyo Cool Biz" initiative allowing men to wear shorts to work.
- The policy aims to help employees cope with rising summer temperatures and reduce energy consumption.
- Some women have expressed discomfort with the policy, citing "leg hair harassment" and perceived unfairness compared to women's dress codes.
- A survey indicated a majority of respondents were against wearing shorts to work, with concerns about body hair being a primary reason.
- The initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage energy saving during Japan's hot and humid summers.
As Japan grapples with record-breaking heat and soaring energy prices, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has encouraged male employees to adopt more casual summer attire, including shorts, as part of its "Tokyo Cool Biz" initiative. Introduced by Governor Yuriko Koike in April, the policy aims to promote comfort and reduce energy consumption during the hot months.
However, the recommendation has sparked a debate, with some women expressing concerns about fairness and what they term "leg hair harassment" or "sunehara," referring to the discomfort of seeing colleagues' bare legs. A survey by Gorilla Clinic found that over half of respondents opposed the shorts policy, citing worries about body shape and body hair. Women reportedly outnumbered men in their opposition, suggesting a greater resistance to the visual aspect of men's bare legs in the workplace.
Environmental official Noboru Watanabe stated that the goal is to offer options in severe heat, provided attire is not offensive. Some men have reported feeling self-conscious about their leg hair, with some seeking laser hair removal as a matter of "social etiquette." This initiative builds on the "Cool Biz" campaign first launched by Koike in 2005, which encouraged short-sleeve shirts and a tie-less dress code to save energy.
Japan is experiencing extreme weather conditions, with forecasters warning of "brutally hot days" exceeding 40C. Recent data indicates a significant number of heatstroke-related deaths and hospital admissions. Beyond basic measures like hydration and air conditioning, citizens are turning to heat-mitigating products, while experts emphasize the importance of heat acclimatization.