Today I traded the temples and trendy districts for something a little different: the University of Tokyo, or Todai as it’s affectionately known. It wasn’t on my original itinerary, but I’m so glad I made the detour. It wasn’t just a campus visit; it was a glimpse into the heart of Japanese academic excellence and a fascinating walk through history.
Stepping onto the Hongo Campus, the main campus of Todai, felt like stepping back in time. The architecture is stunning – a beautiful blend of traditional Japanese and Western styles. The iconic Akamon (Red Gate) immediately caught my eye – it’s the main entrance and a symbol of the university. It’s incredibly picturesque! But it’s not just about the old buildings. The campus is also buzzing with modern energy. Students were rushing to class, studying on the lawns, and chatting in the cafes. It was a vibrant mix of tradition and innovation.
The Hongo Campus of the University of Tokyo has three famous attractions: Yasuda Lecture Hall, Ginkgo Avenue and Akamon. One of the symbols of Tokyo University, “Yasuda Lecture Hall” was donated and constructed by “Zenjiro Yasuda”, the founder of the Yasuda Foundation. It was completed in 1925 and was later selected as one of the 50 Tokyo Architectural Heritages. From the Yasuda Lecture Hall to the campus and library of Tokyo University, most of them were designed by the famous architect “Uchida Shozo” at the time. The architectural style of smooth curved arches and stone-carved square columns was called “Uchida Goethe” (Uchida Goethe).
“Akamon”, another symbol of Tokyo University, is much more popular than the main entrance. Whether they are candidates, graduates, or tourists who come to Tokyo University, they will leave a souvenir here. “Akamon” was originally the gate of the royal palace built when the 13th generation lord of the Kaga Domain married “Yohime”, the daughter of the 11th generation shogun Ieyashi. Not far from Akamon there is a “Kaideokukan” and “Kaideoku Garden” which were once the residences of the Kaga Maeda clan. Now they are used as the guest house of Tokyo University and are not open to the public.
There is a large row of ginkgo trees in front of the lecture hall, extending to the main entrance. Every late November, the ginkgo trees turn the University of Tokyo into a golden color. Set against the classical campus, it is one of the must-visit attractions in Tokyo in late autumn. When you come to Tokyo University, you may want to try “Akamon Noodles” in the student cafeteria, or go to the “Second Purchasing Department” under Yasuda Lecture Hall to buy souvenirs with the name of Tokyo University. If you like Kitty, there are also Kitty peripheral products wearing Tokyo University doctorate uniforms and cheerleading uniforms!
Japan’s most touching loyal dog Hachi is also related to the University of Tokyo. Hachi’s owner is Eisaburo Ueno, a professor at the Faculty of Agriculture at Tokyo Imperial University. Hachi would watch his master go out at the door every day, and go to Shibuya Station to welcome his master home in the evening. Later, his master passed away due to illness, and Hachi still went to the station every day to wait. After Hachi passed away, in 1934, in memory of his deeds, the “Loyal Dog Hachiko” statue was built at Shibuya Station. Eighty years after the incident, the University of Tokyo rebuilt a statue of Professor Ueno and Hachi’s reunion, and it is now placed in the Nongzheng Gate, giving this story a perfect ending.
If you’re looking for something a little different during your visit to Tokyo, I highly recommend taking a stroll through the University of Tokyo. It’s a fascinating place to explore, and you might just be inspired by the energy and atmosphere.
