Kyoto university’s history
Freedom. It is a word that cannot be overlooked when discussing Kyoto University. Respecting students’ independence and valuing free research driven by intellectual curiosity has created one of Japan’s leading research universities and produced numerous achievements.
The source of this distinctive academic culture dates back to the university’s founding.
In 1897, Kyoto University was established as Japan’s second Imperial University, following Tokyo. While Tokyo Imperial University was already well established in the capital, Kyoto University developed its own character by emphasizing the individuality of its students and researchers.
From its inception, the university modeled itself after German institutions, introducing the novel educational approach of “education through research.” It was reportedly the first in Japan to formally implement seminars where students and faculty could discuss as equals, treat students as researchers, and require a graduation thesis.
The compact nature of Kyoto, which enables students and faculty to engage in discussions and interact closely day and night, greatly contributed to forming this culture of freedom. This educational tradition continues steadfastly today.
As a result, for more than 125 years, the university has produced a highly diverse set of graduates. In 1949, Hideki Yukawa became the first Japanese Nobel Prize winner in physics. Since then, eleven Nobel laureates and numerous recipients of international awards have emerged, including winners of the Fields Medal and Breakthrough Prize.
関連リンク
- Kyoto University Archives
- Kyoto University＞International awards