International College For Postgraduate Buddhist Studies

International College for Postgraduate Buddhist Studies (ICPBS), Tokyo: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: History and Significance

The International College for Postgraduate Buddhist Studies (ICPBS) in Tokyo is a globally recognized institution dedicated exclusively to advanced education and research in Buddhist philosophy, history, literature, and culture. Founded in 1996 and accredited by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, ICPBS occupies a unique place in Japan’s academic landscape. Located in the vibrant Bunkyo-ku district, the campus sits on grounds once belonging to Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of Japan, blending academic rigor with historical and cultural richness.

ICPBS is known for its highly selective integrated five-year master’s and doctoral program, limited to a small cohort each year to ensure close mentorship and access to rare Buddhist manuscripts. Its library, a vital resource for scholars, contains over 140,000 volumes, including invaluable texts in multiple Buddhist languages. While ICPBS is primarily an academic institution, it welcomes visitors interested in Buddhist studies, history, architecture, and Japanese culture. Standard visiting hours are weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with special arrangements required for access to the library and certain facilities.

Located near Kasuga Station (Toei Mita and Oedo subway lines), ICPBS is easily accessible and close to other notable sites such as Koishikawa Korakuen Garden and Kanda Myojin Shrine. The campus, crafted by Maki & Associates, elegantly fuses modern design with natural elements, featuring tranquil gardens and a historic Ginkgo tree from the Tokugawa era.

This guide provides comprehensive information for prospective visitors, scholars, and travelers interested in ICPBS’s history, academic offerings, visitor protocols, and surrounding cultural attractions. For further details, consult the ICPBS Official Website, Study Abroad Aide, and Free Apply.

Overview of ICPBS
History and Academic Excellence
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
Tickets and Guided Tours
Directions
Campus Highlights and Photo Spots
Nearby Attractions
Facilities and Student Life
Internationalization and Visitor Support
ICPBS Library: Access and Research
Frequently Asked Questions
Summary and Final Tips
References and Further Reading

Overview of ICPBS

Nestled in Bunkyo-ku, ICPBS offers a distinct blend of academic excellence and Buddhist cultural heritage. The campus, serene and steeped in history, welcomes visitors seeking insights into Buddhist studies or Tokyo’s scholarly traditions.

History and Academic Excellence

Since its establishment in 1996, ICPBS has focused exclusively on postgraduate education in Buddhist studies. The institution is renowned for its five-year integrated master’s and doctoral program, which heavily emphasizes personalized mentorship, access to rare manuscripts, and rigorous academic training. The small number of annual admissions fosters a close-knit scholarly community and individualized attention.

Visiting Hours and Accessibility

Open: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Weekends and public holidays
Note: Access to certain facilities (library, lecture halls) requires advance arrangement or specific academic purpose. Visitors are encouraged to contact ICPBS in advance via the official website or administrative office.

Tickets and Guided Tours

Admission: Free; no ticket required for general campus entry
Guided Tours: Regular public tours are not available due to the institution’s academic focus. However, guided visits may be arranged during special events or upon request.
Events: Lectures and seminars occasionally open to the public; announcements are posted on the ICPBS website and social media.

Directions

Address: 2-8-9 Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-0003, Japan
By Subway: Kasuga Station (Toei Mita and Oedo lines) or Korakuen Station (Marunouchi and Namboku lines), both within a five-minute walk
By Bus: Multiple routes serve the area
Parking: Limited; public transportation is recommended

Campus Highlights and Photo Spots

Main Buildings: Modern facilities juxtaposed with traditional architectural features
Gardens: Tranquil spaces ideal for reflection and photography, especially during cherry blossom season
Historic Ginkgo Tree: A living relic from the Tokugawa era
Library: Extensive collection of Buddhist texts (access by special arrangement)

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring neighboring sites:

Koishikawa Korakuen Garden: One of Tokyo’s oldest Japanese gardens
Kanda Myojin Shrine: Historic Shinto shrine
Other Temples and Museums: Various within Bunkyo-ku, offering a deep dive into Japanese religious and cultural heritage

Facilities and Student Life

ICPBS offers dormitory accommodations for students and a supportive scholarly environment. Facilities include lecture halls, administration offices, and an auditorium used for academic and cultural events, some of which may be open to registered visitors.

Internationalization and Visitor Support

Language: Instruction is in Japanese, but ICPBS provides English-language support and resources for international visitors and students
Visitor Support: Advance inquiries are recommended, especially for language assistance or special needs

ICPBS Library: Access and Research

Visiting Hours and Access

Open: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (10:00 AM – 4:45 PM during university holidays)
Closed: Weekends, national holidays, university founding day (May 18), year-end/New Year holidays, inventory days
Advance Booking: Required for all non-affiliated visitors; call 03-5981-5277
Entry Requirements: Bring a completed “Material Use Request Form” and valid ID

Usage Guidelines

On-site Use Only: Borrowing not available to external visitors
Copying: Prepaid copy cards required (40 yen/BW, 80 yen/color page); restrictions may apply to rare items

Collection Highlights

140,000+ volumes on Buddhist philosophy, history, languages (Sanskrit, Pali, Tibetan, Chinese, Japanese)
Rare manuscripts (special access protocols)
Digital and print academic journals

Facilities

Quiet study spaces
Research support staff
Accessibility accommodations (notify in advance if needed)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the ICPBS visiting hours?
A: Weekdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; library hours 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Prior arrangement may be required for certain areas.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, campus and library admission are free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not regularly, but may be arranged in advance or during special events.

Q: Can visitors access the library?
A: With advance booking and proper identification; materials are for on-site use only.

Q: Is the campus accessible?
A: Yes, ramps and elevators are available.

Q: How do I get there?
A: The closest subway stations are Kasuga and Korakuen; public transport is advised.

Q: Is English support available?
A: Some staff provide assistance in English; check in advance for specific needs.

Summary and Final Tips

The International College for Postgraduate Buddhist Studies is a premier destination for those seeking to engage with Buddhist scholarship and Japanese culture. Its serene, historically significant campus, comprehensive library, and academic excellence make it a unique place for both researchers and culturally minded visitors. Advance planning and adherence to visitor protocols are essential, especially for access to specialized facilities. Proximity to Tokyo’s major cultural sites further enhances the visitor experience.