Can I wear shorts in Tokyo?

Japan is a country with many cultural rules and norms, and those often cause confusion for tourists visiting for the first time. One of the most commonly asked questions, is related to dressing in Japan. Even though temperatures tend to be high in Tokyo, the dress code and social norms are quite strict in Japan – and this can be intimidating at first. So, can you wear shorts in Tokyo?

The answer is yes – as long as you follow certain rules and keep certain norms in mind. First of all, you should be aware that wearing shorts is not regularly accepted in Japan, even in Tokyo. Also, with proper behavior and dress code, it’s important to show respect to the local culture. Therefore, short-shorts for either men or women should be avoided.

When to Wear Shorts in Tokyo?

Shorts are suitable for casual days out and leisure activities while in Tokyo. If you plan on spending most of the day outdoors, it’s comfortable to wear shorts while visiting museums and doing sightseeing. Vibrant colored and printed shorts are quickly becoming fashionable too in Tokyo, but we recommend that you don’t go too overboard with them. If you’re forced to attend a formal event, then it is best to pull out your long pants and dress shoes.

Whenever you enter a temple or a shrine while out sightseeing in Tokyo, it is important that you dress modestly and respectfully. Women should not wear shorts but rather skirts or trousers, while men can wear nicely fitting shorts that cover their upper legs and cover the knee area.

Another aspect you should take into consideration when dressing casual in Tokyo is the footwear. Although sandals are normally acceptable for casual days out and about, flip-flops should be avoided at all costs when sightseeing – and this is especially true when visiting a temple or a shrine.

Foreigners Wearing Shorts in Tokyo

Foreigners wearing shorts in Tokyo are often looked on as an exception as most Japanese people usually prefer to maintain a more modest style for their everyday life. Therefore, it’s important to be aware that how you dress reflects how people perceive you and your behavior – so be sure to dress modestly when visiting places of worship while you are in the city.

However, if you are staying at a hostel or a guesthouse in Tokyo, or if you prefer not to wear what is considered normal clothing in Tokyo, there are also other places where you can find comfortable clothing: street fashion shops, department stores or high-end boutiques. Many of these stores offer high-end brands that also include shorts.

Overall, whether or not it is acceptable to wear shorts in Tokyo depends on where you are going and what kind of activity you plan on doing, though we recommend that tourists in Tokyo err on the side of caution when it comes to their attire – particularly if they wish to show respect for local culture. While shorts may often be seen as a comfortable piece of clothing only suitable for running errands, when you come to Tokyo it pays to know your boundaries and dress sensibly – particularly if you plan on visiting museums and temples.

We hope this article provided a useful answer to “Can I wear shorts in Tokyo?”.
Source: Fluency Tutors – Can I Wear Shorts in Tokyo?

Insider’s Guide to Tokyo: Answering the Question – Can I Wear Shorts in Tokyo?

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis known for its modernity, advanced technology, and unique culture. It’s a favorite destination for tourists from all over the world who come to explore its vibrant neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and the famous Japanese cuisine. When it comes to deciding what to wear, tourists often wonder if they can wear shorts in Tokyo. So, let’s address this question first before diving into what Tokyo has to offer.

What to Wear in Tokyo?

Tokyo is a fashion-forward city, and you will find many locals sporting the latest trends on the streets. However, it is always advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious places and more traditional neighborhoods like Asakusa, Ueno, and Ginza.

While shorts are not forbidden in Tokyo, it’s important to note that wearing extremely revealing clothing may not be an appropriate choice. In the hot summer months, shorts are quite popular in Tokyo, but it’s a good idea to stick with knee-length shorts to be respectful of the culture and traditions.

Things to do in Tokyo

1. Visit Tokyo Skytree – Standing at 634 meters, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

2. Explore Asakusa – As one of Tokyo’s oldest neighborhoods, Asakusa is home to the famous Sensoji Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple that attracts millions of visitors annually. The streets of Asakusa are lined with traditional shops and eateries, and a stroll through the area offers a glimpse of the old Tokyo.

3. Discover Harajuku and Takeshita Street – Home of the famous Harajuku fashion subculture, this neighborhood is a must-visit for fashion lovers and young people. Takeshita Street is a bustling lane lined with quirky stores, unique cafes, and street performers that will captivate your attention.

4. Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine – Located in the heart of Tokyo, the Meiji Jingu Shrine is a beautiful and serene escape from the chaos of the city. Visitors can take part in traditional Shinto rituals, and explore the lush forest surrounding the shrine.

Where to Eat in Tokyo

1. Tsukiji Fish Market – The world’s largest seafood market is an excellent spot to taste the freshest sushi in Tokyo.

2. Robot Restaurant – This quirky restaurant in Shinjuku offers a unique dining experience with a futuristic robot-themed show that will leave you amazed.

3. Ramen Street in Tokyo Station – A haven for ramen lovers, Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street has some of the best ramen noodle shops in the city with a wide variety of flavors.

Cultural Experiences in Tokyo

1. Kabuki Theatre – Kabuki is a traditional Japanese stage art that has been around since the Edo period. At the Kabuki theater in Tokyo, travelers can witness a visually stunning performance that combines elaborate costumes, dramatic makeup, and thrilling storylines.

2. Sumo Wrestling – Sumo is Japan’s national sport, and Tokyo hosts three professional sumo tournaments every year. Travelers can catch a live match and witness the strength and power of sumo wrestlers up close.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Tokyo

1. TeamLab Borderless – A must-visit for art enthusiasts, TeamLab Borderless is a digital art collective that creates interactive installations that blur the lines of space and time.

2. Akihabara – Known as Tokyo’s electronic district, Akihabara is a hub for anime, video games, and all things tech. Visitors can browse through stores selling the latest gadgets, and also indulge in some cosplay activities.

3. Omoide Yokocho – This alley in Shinjuku is a throwback to old Tokyo with narrow streets lined with tiny eateries serving traditional snacks and drinks.

Final Thoughts

No matter where you go or what you do in Tokyo, one thing is for sure- you’ll never run out of excitement. From the cutting-edge technology to the traditional temples, Tokyo offers a perfect blend of old and new and is a unique destination that’s definitely worth experiencing. And to answer the question- yes, you can wear shorts in Tokyo, but it’s preferable to dress modestly and respectfully while exploring the city.