Tokyo Cool Biz campaign leads to complaints of ‘leg hair harassment’ among female workers.
Japan has ramped up its efforts to get office workers dressed in shorts as summer heat intensifies, but the move has sparked outrage over 'leg hair harassment'. According to reporting by Dexerto - Esports & Gaming, some women feel uncomfortable seeing their male colleagues' exposed leg hair at work due to Japan's recent ‘sunehara’ (leg exposure) debate.
As part of its expanded Tokyo Cool Biz campaign, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government encouraged workers to don lighter clothing like shorts for heat relief and energy cost savings. However, this has ignited a wave of complaints from women who think it puts them in an awkward position with colleagues' unshaven leg hair.
Tokyo’s Leg Exposure Debate
The campaign highlights the ongoing debate on workplace dress codes in Japan where women are still expected to wear tights when wearing shorts. A June survey by Gorilla Clinic found that 53.5% of respondents opposed shorts in workplace summers, with many seeking laser hair removal before heading to work.
Double Standard in Workplace Dress Codes
While some male workers are taking matters into their own hands, others feel the policy is a double standard. Director Akifumi Funatsu of Gorilla Clinic told BBC that clients now view it as a matter of 'social etiquette' after wearing shorts.
A July 2023 survey by Dexerto - Esports & Gaming showed just how divided public opinion was: among 1,000 respondents, only half supported the relaxed dress code. This debate has raised concerns about how companies balance comfort and professionalism, with one woman citing a toxic workplace environment she may leave over the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ‘sunehara’?
“Sunehara” comes from the Japanese term for unwanted hair on exposed legs and has become a buzzword as women workers complain about seeing their male colleagues’ leg hair in short-sleeved attire.
Why do some men seek laser hair removal before wearing shorts to work?
To avoid workplace discomfort, many men are turning to professional services like Gorilla Clinic for laser hair removal. The clinic's director Akifumi Funatsu sees an uptick in clients viewing it as necessary social etiquette.
How is the ‘sunehara’ debate affecting Japan’s office culture?
The issue has sparked discussions on workplace dress codes, professionalism and double standards within Japanese companies. With summers getting hotter, this debate may continue to evolve as more offices adapt to cooler conditions.