Doshisha University in Kyoto

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Facts & Figures

Doshisha University also known as Dodai in Kyoto is one of the most prestigious universities in Japan. It belongs to the four leading private universities within the Kansai area. The other 3 are Ritsumeikan University, Kansai University and Kwansei Gakuin University. Regarding Doshisha it is really hard to get in and in some departments the acceptance rate is under 15%. Approximately 30000 students attending this place with its six different campuses (Imadegawa, Kyotanabe, Shinmachi, Gakkentoshi, Muromachi, Karasuma) in the city. I really liked the campus near Kyoto Imperial Palace with its beautiful red brick buildings. These are great examples of Meiji period (1868 - 1912) architecture. My personal highlight there was the Doshisha Chapel. Experience the Ultimate Japanese Hospitality at a Kyoto Ryokan.
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• Doshisha University campus:
• Admission Fee - free

My tips for local activities

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History

In 1875 educator Niijima Jo (aka Joseph Hardy Neesima, 1843 – 1890) founded Doshisha University in Kyoto. Before that he secretly went to the USA in 1864 to study at the Phillips Academy and Amherst College. He liked this experience so much that he made the decision after his return in 1874 to found Doshisha English School. He wanted to teach students based on Christian principles. In 1920 the school got the status of a university.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Imadegawa campus - It is the main campus located in central Kyoto. You will find there the Doshisha Chapel and Clark Memorial Hall, which have the status of an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Kyotanabe Campus - The second campus is located in southern Kyoto. It was founded in 1986 and houses the science and engineering faculties.

Festival & Events in Kyoto (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamigamo Shrine. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.