Founded in 1877, the University of Tokyo is the oldest and largest of Japan’s national universities.
Exemplifying the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University serves as a forum for educational and research activities carried out at a wide array of locations, including the three core campuses of Hongo, Komaba and Kashiwa.
The University of Tokyo’s greatest strength lies in its educational and research excellence.
The new discoveries made on its campuses today become excellent research that benefits society tomorrow. The University is a place where outstanding students and researchers cultivate each other’s skills while working together.
Exchange of Researchers
The University of Tokyo actively engages in researcher exchange with overseas institutions. By country, UTokyo carries out the most exchanges, both outbound and inbound, with institutions in the United States. UTokyo also enjoys close ties with countries in Asia, such as China and South Korea. Many exchanges likewise take place with institutions in Europe.
Cited Papers
One indicator of a researcher’s achievements is how frequently their academic papers are cited by others. Papers by researchers at the University of Tokyo are highly cited.
※Number of times that UTokyo papers published from 2019-2023 were cited by papers indexed in Web of Science during the same five-year period (Source: data from the Essential Science Indicators database, accessed on September 19, 2024)
Books and Other Materials
In addition to the General Library on the Hongo Campus, many University organizations maintain collections of books in their own libraries. Materials kept include not only Japanese books, but also journals and numerous books written in languages other than Japanese.
Start-up Companies
The University of Tokyo offers an extensive range of support for entrepreneurial members of the University community who want to start companies that utilize research and educational outcomes produced at the University. As of March 31, 2024, approximately 577 UTokyo-related start-ups have been established, and that number continues to grow.
The University of Tokyo’s educational and research activities span across the entire world. Actively pursuing exchanges with overseas universities and accepting a large number of international students, UTokyo contributes to a high degree of individual mobility among students, researchers and staff. The University of Tokyo has been and will continue to be a research hub for international excellence.
Hundreds of thousands of individuals have graduated from the University of Tokyo. Talented UTokyo alumni from all generations have given back to society in a variety of fields with their accomplishments, leaving their mark on the world.
Nobel Prize Winners
The number of UTokyo professors and alumni receiving Nobel Prizes also underscores the University’s commitment to excellence. Professor Takaaki Kajita, who was awarded the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physics, researched under Special University Professor Emeritus Masatoshi Koshiba, one of the Nobel Prize in Physics recipients in 2002. In 2016, Honorary Professor Yoshinori Ohsumi won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. The significant research breakthroughs that contributed to Professor Ohsumi receiving this recognition were made during his time as an associate professor at the University of Tokyo.
Japanese Prime Ministers
The University of Tokyo counts among its alumni numerous talented individuals who have helped guide the nation. Some of these individuals have gone on to lead Japan as prime ministers, cementing their names into Japanese history.
Astronauts
Spaceflight, a dream held by many, requires a high level of expertise and the ability to endure life in space. Seven UTokyo graduates have undergone rigorous training to achieve this dream, and this number is certain to continue soaring to new heights.