These 5 Japanese universities are so beautiful they’ll take your breath away

By MOOK Scenic Spots / Wu Pin-xuan, compiled and reported
 
Japan is a country where stunning scenery can be found everywhere, whether it’s the cherry blossoms in Tokyo in April or the maple forests in Kyoto in October—each place has its own unique charm. So, which university campuses in Japan boast particularly beautiful scenery? Here, we’ve rounded up 5 university campuses that are incredibly enviable in both scenery and environment—you simply have to visit them!
 

1. Hokkaido University
 
Also known as “Hokudai,” it was founded in 1876 and is located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. It is the first renowned national comprehensive research university authorized to confer bachelor's degrees. With clearly defined seasons and gorgeous scenery, Hokkaido University is especially noted for its ginkgo-lined path, which is at its most beautiful around the end of October each year. Due to Hokkaido’s long and early snow season, you can witness the uniquely Hokkaido combination of “first snow + autumn leaves” as well as “cherry blossoms + lingering snow”—a sight that can likely only be experienced here in all of Japan.
 

2. Rikkyo University
 
A prestigious private university in Japan with Christian affiliation, located in the bustling commercial district of Ikebukuro in Tokyo. Founded over 130 years ago, it is one of Japan’s top 10 private universities and one of the Tokyo Six Universities. The entrance of Rikkyo University features red brick buildings covered with lush green ivy, exuding abundant greenery, and the entire campus is well landscaped. It has served as a filming location for Kimura Takuya’s classic Japanese drama “Long Vacation” and many other TV dramas.
 

3. Nara Women's University
 
Established in 1908, it is a renowned national university in Japan. Together with Ochanomizu University to the east, it is known as one of the two “twin towers” of women’s universities in Japan—the only two national women’s universities in the country. The architecture of Nara Women's University is refined and elegant, featuring graceful emerald green hues paired with sophisticated white.
 

4. Waseda University
 
Commonly referred to as “Waseda,” its main campus is located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. It is one of Japan’s long-renowned top-tier universities. Having passed its 132nd year, Waseda University has grown into a globally recognized prestigious institution. To date, 30 of its alumni have won the Akutagawa Prize, Japan’s highest literary award—more than any other university in the country. The campus boasts beautiful scenery, well-equipped teaching facilities, and comprehensive sports amenities.