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Japanese universities
Kokugakuin University
Kokugakuin University was founded in 1882 as a research institution specializing in Japanese history, literature, and law. The curriculum at Kokugakuin is deeply rooted in tradition and Japanese culture, with an emphasis on enriching the way students learn and creating future leaders who will contribute to a harmonious society.
With six faculties and 13 departments, Kokugakuin offers specialized programs in Japanese letters, Shinto studies, law, economics, human development, and tourism. The university is an excellent fit for those who are fluent in Japanese and have an interest in exploring these unique fields of study.
With two campuses, one in Shibuya, Tokyo’s vibrant cultural hub, and the other in Tama Plaza, Kokugakuin offers students the unmatched experience of immersion into Japan’s rich heritage and modern dynamism.
Prices starting from
Prices starting from
Prices starting from
Prices starting from
Prices starting from
Prices starting from
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Start your application for the April 2026 intake!
Kokugakuin University
Overview
Japan Studies
On-Campus Shrine
Financial Support
Career Support
International Exchange
Location 1
Our school is located in Shibuya, Tokyo
Kokugakuin University has two campuses in Tokyo. One in the heart of Shibuya and the other in Tama Plaza.
The Shibuya campus is home to the Faculties of Letters, Shinto Studies, Law, and Economics. Shibuya is a hub for pop culture, making it an exceptional place to study. Kokugakuin is one of only two universities in Japan where Shinto can be studied and the only one in an urban area.
Location 2
And in Yokohama
DISTANCE TO TRAIN STATIONS (Walking time) - SHIBUYA
On foot
DISTANCE TO TRAIN STATIONS (Walking time) - SHIN-ISHIKAWA
Apply now
We are now accepting applications for April 2026 term
Kokugakuin University
Our Courses
Kokugakuin University
Faculty of Letter
Inheriting the history and traditions of Kokugakuin University, which started as a research institution specializing in Japanese history, literature, and law. In five departments, students can study Japanese culture, history, the languages and cultures of other countries in depth, philosophy, and art. Faculty of Letter students can take classes in other faculties/departments within a specified range. The educational environment within these departments gives students the solid education and wide vision necessary to live in a global society.
*Kokugakuin does not accept international students into the Department of Foreign Languages.
Prerequisites
To be accepted at Kokugakuin, you must:
1) Pass the Kokugakuin entrance exam for international students
2) Score 230 or higher in the "Japanese" section of the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
3) Have a high school diploma or equivalent
4) Successfully complete the visa application process
*Except for the Department of Foreign Languages
Course length
4 years
Available starts
April
Schedule (weekdays)
A student's schedule depends on the number of required and elective courses they take.
12 months
Costs
Total course costs
*Costs may vary depending on the entrance examination system.
*Depending on the course content, fees other than those listed above may be required.
Kokugakuin University
Faculties of Shinto Studies
While studying Shinto, the foundation of Japanese traditions and culture, students will navigate a comparative study of religions other than Shinto and have the chance to examine the essence of Shinto. This unique and rare faculty is one of only two in the country and seeks to develop students with an education that adapts to the times and can become a bridge to hand down Shinto and Japanese culture at home and abroad.
Prerequisites
To be accepted at Kokugakuin, you must:
1) Pass the Kokugakuin entrance exam for international students
2) Score 230 or higher in the "Japanese" section of the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
3) Have a high school diploma or equivalent
4) Successfully complete the visa application process
Course length
4 years
Available starts
April
Schedule (weekdays)
A student's schedule depends on the number of required and elective courses they take.
12 months
Costs
Total course costs
*Costs may vary depending on the entrance examination system.
*Depending on the course content, fees other than those listed above may be required.
Kokugakuin University
Faculty of Law
The Faculty of Law offers an environment for students to learn through hands-on activities and independent thinking to build problem-solving skills to address today’s complex social challenges. The faculty of Law has two on-site dedicated fellows available all year who provide personalized support on study methods, report writing, and more.
Prerequisites
To be accepted at Kokugakuin, you must:
1) Pass the Kokugakuin entrance exam for international students
2) Meet one of the following Japanese language requirements:
- Score 230 or above in the "Japanese" subject on the EJU
- Hold JLPT N1 or N2 certification
- Score 600 or above on the JPET
3) Have a high school diploma or equivalent
4) Successfully complete the visa application process
Course length
4 years
Available starts
April
Schedule (weekdays)
A student's schedule depends on the number of required and elective courses they take.
12 months
Costs
Total course costs
*Costs may vary depending on the entrance examination system.
*Depending on the course content, fees other than those listed above may be required.
Kokugakuin University
Faculty of Economics
The Faculty of Economics offers two paths: Economics and Business Management. Students learn about everything from economic theory to global markets and startups. Many courses use group work to build teamwork skills, encouraging students to share ideas, listen, and discuss. First-year students get support from senior mentors, making it easier to adjust, and a presentation competition in the second semester helps students think big and solve real-world problems.
Prerequisites
To be accepted on this course at Kokugakuin you must:
1) Pass the university administered entrance exam for international students
2) Have CEFR A2 or above scores in English test
3) Take Japanese, general subjects, and math on the EJU
4) High school diploma or equivalent
5) Successfully complete the visa application process
Course length
4 years
Available starts
April
Schedule (weekdays)
A student's schedule depends on the number of required and elective courses they take.
12 months
Costs
Total course costs
*Costs may vary depending on the entrance examination system.
*Depending on the course content, fees other than those listed above may be required.
Kokugakuin University
Faculties of Human Development
The Faculty of Human Development’s Department of Health and Physical Education trains future educators in sports, health, and physical education for all age groups. The program blends theory and hands-on practice, helping students build strong teaching and coaching skills. With a focus on personal growth and leadership, graduates will be prepared to guide and inspire others in schools, sports programs, and health education.
*Kokugakuin does not accept international students into the Department of Elementary Education and Child Studies.
Prerequisites
To be accepted at Kokugakuin, you must:
1) Pass the Kokugakuin entrance exam for international students
2) Score 230 or higher in the "Japanese" section of the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
3) Have a high school diploma or equivalent
4) Successfully complete the visa application process
*Only for the Department of Health and Physical Education
Course length
4 years
Available starts
April
Schedule (weekdays)
A student's schedule depends on the number of required and elective courses they take.
12 months
Costs
Total course costs
*Costs may vary depending on the entrance examination system.
*Depending on the course content, fees other than those listed above may be required.
Kokugakuin University
Faculties of Tourism and Community Development
Along with the recent boom in tourism to Japan, the Faculty of Tourism and Community Development was created to nurture students who can appreciate the history, culture, and nature of various parts of Japan, who think about sustainable community development from the standpoint of tourism, and who contribute to local communities in a multifaceted way.
Prerequisites
To be accepted at Kokugakuin, you must:
1) Pass the Kokugakuin entrance exam for international students
2) Score 270 or higher in the "Japanese" section of the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
3) Take Course 1 or Course 2 in the "Math" section of the EJU
4) Have a high school diploma or equivalent
5) Successfully complete the visa application process
Course length
4 years
Available starts
April
Schedule (weekdays)
A student's schedule depends on the number of required and elective courses they take.
12 months
Costs
Total course costs
*Costs may vary depending on the entrance examination system.
*Depending on the course content, fees other than those listed above may be required.
