Tokyo's Shorts Initiative Sparks Debate on Leg Hair Norms

WHO:

BBC - Akifumi Funatsu, director of Gorilla Clinic

WHAT:

BBC - The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is encouraging workers to wear shorts to work instead of traditional suits and ties.

BBC - Funatsu has observed an increase in clients seeking laser hair removal for cosmetic reasons related to wearing shorts.

WHERE:

BBC - Tokyo, Japan

WHY:

BBC - There is a belief among some women that "men should have less leg hair," which has influenced men to seek hair removal to avoid offending others.

HOW:

BBC - The initiative promotes a more casual dress code, suggesting t-shirts, trainers, and shorts for the workplace.

(UPDATED July 22, 2026 05:57 UTC)

In Tokyo, the Metropolitan Government is encouraging workers to adopt a more casual dress code by wearing shorts instead of traditional suits and ties. Akifumi Funatsu, director of Gorilla Clinic, has noticed a rise in men seeking laser hair removal, driven by the belief that "men should have less leg hair" to avoid offending others while wearing shorts. This initiative promotes a relaxed workplace atmosphere, suggesting t-shirts, trainers, and shorts as acceptable attire.