Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike Expands Cool Biz to Allow Men’s Shorts at Work

Governor Yuriko Koike of Tokyo has broadened the two‑decade‑old "Cool Biz" campaign, giving formal approval for male office workers to wear shorts during the intense summer heat. The policy, originally introduced to cut air‑conditioning use and lower energy bills, now aims to help employees cope with temperatures above 30 °C and high humidity.

The change has generated a mixed response. Some Japanese workers have coined the term "sune‑hara" (leg‑hair harassment) to describe discomfort at seeing bare, hairy legs, while fashion lawyers note that shorts must be tailored and free of elastic waistbands to remain professional. Retailers such as Yofuku no Aoyama have begun stocking office‑appropriate nylon shorts. The discussion has also spread internationally, with Indian industrialist Harsh Goenka joking on LinkedIn that India might consider similar climate‑friendly attire.

Overall, the initiative reflects a shift in workplace dress norms in Japan, balancing energy‑saving goals with cultural attitudes toward professional appearance.