News The right to grow a beard

Two years ago two Osaka metro drivers sued the metropolitan government for slashing their bonus after they had refused to shave their beards.

Osaka subway drivers sue over right to grow a beard | The Japan Times

This week, the court has ruled in their favour:

Osaka subway drivers win court case over right to grow beards - Japan Today

I know of similar cases in the financial industry. Are beards really considered "unprofessional" and "untidy"?

You might find some answers here.