Record Heat Breaks with Tradition in Japan as Shorts Enter Tokyo Offices

For many decades, the Japanese office worker has been identified by an almost unchanging appearance: a dark suit, collared shirt, jacket and tie, even when summer temperatures reached extreme levels.

This year, however, Tokyo’s workplace culture is taking an unusual turn. Metropolitan government employees have been allowed to wear shorts to the office for the first time, as record temperatures and persistent heat waves have prompted authorities to reconsider even the most deeply entrenched professional dress codes.

Although it may be seen as a minor measure, the decision touches on a fundamental element of Japanese workplace tradition. Appearance has long been considered closely linked to seriousness, discipline and respect for hierarchy.

Noboru Watanabe is one of the employees who has embraced the new rule. After more than 30 years of wearing traditional office attire, he came to work in a short-sleeved shirt and khaki shorts.

Watanabe says his colleagues have responded positively, noting that he looks younger and more approachable. In addition to making staff more comfortable, the authorities hope the measure will reduce the use of air conditioning and save energy.

The relaxed dress code is part of the broader “Cool Biz” initiative, which began in 2005. Its aim was to encourage lighter clothing during the summer and reduce energy consumption.

During the hot months, air-conditioning systems in Japanese government buildings are usually set at around 28 degrees Celsius. Because of the high humidity, this temperature can be even more difficult to endure.

Pressure to adapt daily life has increased significantly after last summer proved to be the hottest ever recorded in Japan. Temperatures have frequently exceeded 40 degrees Celsius.

The decision to allow shorts has also sparked discussion in the Japanese media and on social media. The debate has focused on whether such clothing is appropriate in professional settings, as well as whether men should pay more attention to the appearance of their legs.

The issue of gender equality has also become part of the discussion. Many women in Japan continue to face stricter workplace appearance standards, including requirements to wear tights or more conservative clothing even during the summer.

Fashion companies, meanwhile, have begun to capitalize on this transformation in professional culture. Several brands have launched collections of “business shorts” designed specifically for offices, featuring lightweight fabrics and a more formal style.

Despite the official approval, employees are embracing the change cautiously. During a visit to the Tokyo government building, only some male staff members had chosen to wear shorts, while many other employees continued to wear long trousers.

In a society where unwritten rules of workplace conduct have consistently carried great importance, shorts are becoming a sign of a broader transformation: the clash between tradition and new climate conditions.

Japanese offices may continue to be characterized by conservatism, but on scorching summer days, a suit and tie are no longer the only acceptable options.