Dedicated to Shinto and Japanese classics, Kokugakuin University was established in 1882. Today we stand at the birthplace of Kokugakuin University. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity.
Kokugakuin University started as Koten Kokyusho. This institution focused on classical Japanese studies. It trained Shinto priests. The foundation was based on State Shinto.
In 1890, it expanded and became Kokugakuin. The Academy of National Studies offered courses. These included literature, history, and Japanese law. By 1906, it gained university status. Kokugakuin University continued growing. Preparatory teacher-training and research divisions were added in 1918. An affiliated Shinto division followed in 1927.
The university relocated to its current Shibuya location in 1923. Sadly, the Great Kanto Earthquake destroyed the original campus that September. Reconstruction was swift. In 1930, the Shinto shrine was built. It remains on campus.
After World War II, Kōten Kōkyūsho dissolved in 1946. Kokugakuin University reorganized in 1948. It began with a single Faculty of Letters. This included Shinto, History, Literature, and Philosophy departments. That same year, Kokugakuin High School was established.
The Faculty of Political Science and Economics was added in 1950. It later became the Faculty of Economics in 1966. In 1982, Kokugakuin Women’s Junior College Division opened. It is now Kokugakuin Hokkaido Junior College.
Kokugakuin University has several departments. The Faculty of Letters includes Japanese and Chinese Literature. It also offers Foreign Literature and Culture Studies plus History and Philosophy. Other faculties include Shinto Studies, Law, Economics, and Human Development. There is also a Faculty of Tourism and Community Development.
Kokugakuin University’s Faculty of Shinto Studies is notable. Along with Kogakkan University, it provides courses for Shinto priest qualifications.
The graduate schools offer advanced studies. These include Shinto and Religious Studies plus Literature and History. Law and Economics are also available.
Kokugakuin University Museum on the Shibuya campus. It has many historical and archaeological artifacts.
Kokugakuin University has ties to other institutions. It has a sister school relationship with Nihon University. This began when Nihon Law School was founded at the Office of Japanese Classics Research.
Kokugakuin University continues to honor its origins. It remains a center for Shinto study and Japanese culture. Its graduates serve at shrines throughout Japan. The university preserves tradition while embracing the future. This birthplace reminds us of Kokugakuin University’s enduring legacy.