The 12 Senseless School Rules in Japan

Senseless school rules are everywhere in Japan, and a recent survey revealed that many Japanese students disagree with several rules imposed inside schools. The study showed that, in addition to being strict, many of these rules do not have clear explanations for students.

A survey conducted by the Jukusen platform with 104 high school students revealed that 56.7% disagreed with some of their school rules, and around 70% said they had never received any justification for them. Based on this, the rules considered the most “senseless” by students were listed.

The 12 Senseless School Rules in Japan

From 12th place to first, here are the school rules:

• Prohibition of stopping anywhere on the way home from school
• Limit on the number of keychains on school bags
• Ban on sunscreen and lip balm
• Restrictions on winter clothing such as coats and scarves
• Restrictions on sweaters and cardigans
• Strict rules about the color and design of school bags
• Ban on certain underwear colors

Now let’s look at the top 5 senseless school rules in Japan according to students.

5. Smartphone restrictions

Many students accept bans during class, but consider it excessive to prohibit smartphone use during breaks and school events. For them, mobile phones are an important way to communicate and capture moments with friends, making the rule feel outdated and disconnected from reality.

4. Rules on sock color, length, and style

Another widely criticized rule involves strict control over students’ socks. Schools that dictate even the color and length of socks are seen as overly strict. Students argue that such minor details have no impact on academic performance and only reinforce excessive control over appearance.

3. Extremely detailed uniform rules

Uniform rules are among the most criticized. Many students report that the requirements are so specific that they become difficult to follow properly. There are cases of students being warned for small adjustments, such as folding the waist of their skirts for comfort. For students, this shows a lack of flexibility and inconsistent enforcement.

2. Ban on eyebrow grooming

The ban on eyebrow grooming also caused major outrage. Students argue that taking care of appearance should not be an issue, as it can improve self-esteem and personal presentation. Many also highlight that the rule can negatively affect those who already feel insecure about their appearance.

1. Rules on haircuts and hair color

At the top of the list are hair-related rules, considered the most incomprehensible by students. Many schools enforce strict haircut standards and ban any kind of hair dye. Students question why hair needs to be so tightly controlled, since it has no relation to learning. For many, these rules prioritize uniformity over individuality.

Additionally, the survey revealed unusual rules in some schools, such as requiring students to wear thick tights on graduation day, forcing them to say “thank you” at least 10 times a day, and even banning modern music clubs due to fear of “negative influences,” among other senseless rules.

Despite the criticism, around 70% of students said they still follow the rules, even if they disagree with them. However, some Japanese schools have started to relax stricter policies, such as hair restrictions and uniform inspections, suggesting possible changes in the future.

via Soranews