Obirin Gakuen, a place of whispers and rustling leaves. This institution, nestled in Machida, Tokyo, holds a century of stories within its walls. Its name, echoing the French philosopher Jean-Frédéric Oberlin, connects it to a legacy of education and Christian values. The founder, Anzo Shimizu, established a school for underprivileged Chinese women in Beijing in 1921. This act of compassion foreshadowed the spirit of Obirin Gakuen.
After returning to Japan following World War II, Shimizu established Obirin Gakuen in 1946. The campus, surrounded by beautiful oak trees, became a haven for women’s education. It started with a higher girls’ school and an English language course. Later, a high school and junior college were added. In 1966, Obirin University emerged, expanding the institution’s reach. The university’s name, chosen to honor Oberlin College in Ohio, where Shimizu’s daughter studied, symbolizes a connection between cultures and a shared dedication to learning. Oberlin College, founded on the ideals of Johann Friedrich Oberlin, a pastor and educator, shares a spiritual kinship with Obirin Gakuen.
Today, Obirin Gakuen encompasses a kindergarten, middle school, high school, and university. The university offers diverse programs, from liberal arts to business management and health and welfare. It’s known for its strong international focus, with exchange programs and partnerships with over 170 universities worldwide. Students and alumni are affectionately called “Oberliners”, reflecting the close ties to Oberlin College. Interestingly, while Oberlin is officially a co-educational university, it has historically had a higher proportion of female students.
Obirin Gakuen has not been without its challenges. A plan to establish a combined elementary and middle school in Tama City in 2021, to commemorate the 100th anniversary, ultimately fell through due to changes in the city’s plans for the land designated for the school. Despite this setback, Obirin Gakuen remains committed to providing quality education and fostering international understanding. The institution continues to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of society. Its commitment to Christian values, internationalism, and a well-rounded education remains a constant. Obirin Gakuen stands as a testament to the enduring power of education to transform lives. It carries the echoes of a century of learning, growth, and a commitment to shaping a better future.