These 5 Japanese universities are so beautiful they’ll make your heart skip a beat

By MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pinxuan, 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 leaves in Kyoto in October, each place has its own unique charm. So, which university campuses in Japan boast particularly beautiful scenery? Here, we’ve compiled a list of 5 university campuses that are not only picturesque but also have environments so enviable, you simply must visit them.
 

1. Hokkaido University
 
Commonly referred to 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 distinct seasons and breathtaking scenery, Hokkaido University is especially noted for its Ginkgo Avenue, which is at its most beautiful around the end of October each year. Due to Hokkaido’s long and early snow season, visitors can witness the uniquely local combination of “first snow + autumn leaves” and “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 affiliations, located in Ikebukuro, one of Tokyo’s most bustling commercial districts. Established over 130 years ago, it is ranked among Japan’s top 10 private universities and is one of the Tokyo Six Universities. The entrance gate of Rikkyo University features red brick buildings covered with lush green ivy, exuding a vibrant green atmosphere. 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, this 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 — in fact, these are the only two national women’s universities in the country. The architecture of Nara Women’s University is elegant and refined, featuring tasteful combinations of graceful emerald green and classic white tones.
 

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