The Future of Japanese School Uniforms: Will They Endure or Vanish?

From left to right: Original School Uniform, Sailor Uniform, Summer Uniform.

Japan is a country known for the blend of its rich culture and advanced technology. The people of Japan are famous for their politeness, while their traditions and culture are deeply rooted in the society. One of the cultural aspects of Japan is the tradition of wearing school uniforms. Students in Japan take pride in wearing their school uniforms, and parents also feel proud of their children wearing them.

In Japanese culture, there is a saying "先代から渡された誇り" which translates to "Pride passed down from the previous generation." This phrase highlights the significance of uniforms in Japanese culture. Wearing a uniform has several benefits, which is why this tradition has been carried forward from one generation to another. However, like everything else, this culture has its downsides, too. This article will discuss the pros and cons of school uniforms in Japan and determine whether the disadvantages outweigh the advantages.

So, what are the advantages of wearing school uniforms?

The pros of wearing School Uniform as a moral part are

・防犯対策

Wearing school uniforms helps in easily identifying students.

・格差是正

Wearing a school uniform makes it more difficult for economic inequalities to become apparent.

・時間削減

　They don't need to worry about choosing their clothes during busy mornings.

・経 済 的

　SEIFUKU can be worn for three years, making it a great value.

・仲間意識

　Wearing the same clothes can create a sense of group solidarity among people.

Let's discuss why school uniforms are economically suitable for long-term use.

The most significant advantage of school uniforms in Japan is that they can be worn continuously for three years, covering the three years of junior high and three years of high school in the Japanese education system. Therefore, they are designed with much functionality to wear, such as durability, water repellent, quick drying, non-wrinkles, etc.

The design of school uniforms is a factor students consider when choosing a school, as it reflects the school's fashion. Additionally, the number of students enrolled affects the school's funds.

Wearing the same uniform for three years is better for the environment than buying fast fashion. Uniforms are made with environmentally friendly textiles that are gentle on the skin, which is good for both the wearer and the environment.

Students no longer need to worry about purchasing new items every year or every other month. This makes it more economically feasible for parents.

Considering various factors, school uniforms are made with the best materials that schools can afford. Consequently, school uniforms are becoming more expensive. And this is where the negative aspects of wearing school uniforms become apparent.

So, What are the drawbacks or negative aspects of wearing uniforms?

School uniforms can burden guardians, costing at least 70,000 yen (500 USD) in the first fiscal year.

As the weather in Japan is so much different between summer and winter, students need to change from winter to summer wear around June. School uniforms are different depending on the season. In winter, the uniform consists of a jacket, shirt, necktie, pants, and shirts. On the other hand, the summer uniform has all those items except for the jacket. Moreover, the textile materials used for the winter uniform differ from those used for the summer uniform. The winter materials are designed to keep you warm, while the summer materials are designed to keep you cool. Accordingly, students need to buy both winter and summer clothing. This one-time payment is incurred in the first fiscal year.

Inflation has affected Japan as much as other countries since the COVID-19 outbreak, increasing the cost of living. Despite the rise in living costs, the basic income per household has remained relatively high. However, this has resulted in school uniforms becoming an expense that guardians struggle to afford. As a result, many parents and guardians question whether school uniforms are mandatory.

The problem is that " The uniform required for the school entrance ceremony did not arrive on time."

Students must wear school uniforms during the entrance ceremony, which is the most crucial part of their school uniform attire. Wearing the uniform during this event instills a sense of pride and motivates them to put in their best effort as they begin their journey at the school; they have invested much time and effort into embracing the school spirit and following its traditions.

However, the most significant issue arose in the last two years: That essential school uniform did not arrive on time for the entrance ceremony.

Several years ago, the company had to opt for overseas production in countries like China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, and others due to the labor shortage and higher manufacturing costs. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused stricter export and import routes, leading to decreased production capacity both in the home country and overseas. Producing school uniforms is particularly challenging for school uniform makers as they have to prepare within a short period. Regardless of the difficulties faced, the question is, " Are School Uniforms Really Mandatory?"

Gender Sensitivity and Individualism

In the 21st century, we are getting more conscious about gender orientation and the identity of our own. While school uniforms are helpful in many ways, they can make it challenging to express one's gender identity. However, schools are making rules to become more flexible about student gender identity. But in fact, it is still tricky to ultimately show up for one's gender identity with school uniforms.

Another problem is individualism; the main drawback of uniforms is that the uniform doesn't help to show individuality. And Yeah, we can show up as individualism as a group when it comes to each individual; it becomes the main cons of it.

Thoughts on school uniform costs

Some argue that school uniforms are more cost-effective than casual wear in the long run. For example, three years of school uniforms only cost 70,000 yen (500 USD), while one year of casual wear can cost over 25,000 yen (160 USD) per person. Moreover, the cost of clothes per person is typically higher than 25,000 yen for an average household. Additionally, lower-income households can receive financial assistance from the government to cover the cost of school uniforms. On the other hand, wearing casual wear can lead to economic distress, which can result in issues like school bullying.

And how schools are taking action to address those questions.

Starting in 2024, certain schools will permit their students to wear casual clothing during a designated period, while others will allow casual wear only during summer. Depending on the outcome of this trial period, schools will evaluate whether or not to continue allowing students to wear casual outfits instead of uniforms. The opinions of students who currently wear school uniforms will be considered a significant factor in determining the outcome of this issue.

Reference: https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/2fcc413e181d1f20384bee7f4ce0b2aa8dbde1d2

Will wearing school uniforms be discontinued in Japan?

We can hardly determine whether it will continue depending on all the factors to be considered.

We might need to wait and see how the schools will determine this issue and how the Japanese government will decide.

Will Japanese high schools become like Western high schools without school attire? Or Will it remain the same? Who knows? Only time can answer the question.

What do you think about this issue? Please comment below.