Kyoto Imperial University was founded by imperial ordinance on 18 June 1897, the second university to be established in Japan.
Kyoto University is one of the most accomplished research-oriented universities in Asia. This is due to a unique approach to education and research, which encourages the creativity and dialogue essential for groundbreaking research and discoveries. Our state-of-the art laboratories and research facilities enable students and researchers to have the hands-on practical experience that is vital to their academic development. In addition to courses in Japanese, Kyoto University offers a variety of degree courses conducted entirely in English.
Teaching Staff
Professor Takafumi Kurosawa

Professor at the Faculty of Economics
Research Interests
- Comparative port city history and migration history
- Heritage of diversity
Professor Junko Watanabe

Professor at the Faculty of Economics
Research Interests
- Pre- and Postwar Japanese Economic History, Economic History of the Modern World, Industrial Change and Adjustment
Accommodation
Kyoto University has seven accommodation facilities available for international students and researchers, located in the Shugakuin, Yoshida, Hyakumanben(for students only), Okazaki, Uji, Ohbaku and Misasagi (for students only) areas of Kyoto.
International students at Kyoto University can also stay at other accommodation facilities provided by external parties with which Kyoto University has a leasing agreement. Such facilities are also occupied by international and domestic students attending other universities, and in such cases the lease contract will be made through the International Service Office.
Kyoto University International Houses
Due to the limited number of places available, Kyoto University cannot guarantee that all students will have access to the above housing options . Some international students, whether out of preference or necessity, stay in private accommodation. In such cases, Kyoto University offers advice and support to international students in securing private accommodation.
For more details please click here.
Cost of living
Click here for information on the cost of living in Kyoto.
Visa information
Applying for a Student Visa via Kyoto University
In order to study at Kyoto University successful candidates residing outside of Japan must obtain a “College Student Visa” (ryugaku visa) through a Japanese diplomatic mission. The required documents for this application include a certificate or notification of acceptance from Kyoto University, and a valid passport. In some cases, applicants may also be asked to present proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Japan.
Kyoto University provides assistance and advice to students so that they can obtain their visa in a timely manner. For full details on the visa application process please refer to the following links:

“This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication [communication] reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.”
“Funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union”