Business Attire for Tokyo Meetings
Dress conservatively by wearing dark-colored, well-tailored suits and avoiding loud patterns. Ensure your shoes are clean and easy to slip on and off, as you will frequently be removing them at restaurants and meeting venues.
- Select the right suit. Bring a navy or charcoal grey suit. These are the standard for Japanese business environments. Avoid black, which is often associated with funerals, and light greys or tans, which can look too casual.
- Prioritize shirt and tie quality. Stick to crisp, white long-sleeved shirts. If you wear a tie, keep it dark and professional with minimal patterns. Ensure your shirt is freshly pressed; in Tokyo, attention to detail is a sign of respect.
- Choose your footwear wisely. Wear leather lace-up shoes that are in pristine condition. Because you will take your shoes off at traditional meeting rooms or izakayas, make sure your socks are clean, hole-free, and conservative in color.
- Account for the season. If traveling between June and September, bring 'Cool Biz' attire—lightweight fabrics and no tie—as office buildings often keep the AC high but the humidity outside is intense. In winter, bring a high-quality wool overcoat that is easy to remove.
- Do I need a suit every day?
- Yes, unless you are strictly told otherwise. It is safer to be overdressed than underdressed in Tokyo business settings.
- Are there specific grooming expectations?
- Yes. Keep facial hair neatly trimmed or stay clean-shaven. Jewelry should be minimal.