Kitasato University in Tokyo
Kitasato University is in the Shirokane district of Minato, Tokyo. Its Shirokane Campus brings together historic architecture, modern research facilities, laboratories and affiliated hospitals. The university is known for its work in immunology, bacteriology and life sciences, and is recognized as Japan’s first private medical research institution.
Visitors can explore historical exhibits, learn about the university’s research and join guided tours in English or Japanese. The nearby Shibasaburo Kitasato Monument commemorates the university’s founder and adds to the area’s medical-history sites.
History
Kitasato University was established in 1914 by bacteriologist Dr. Shibasaburō Kitasato. Its history includes advances in immunology, bacteriology and life sciences, and its faculty have contributed to research in modern medicine.
The Shibasaburo Kitasato Monument honors the founder, celebrated for his work on tetanus and diphtheria. The Ōmura Satoshi Memorial Institute also recognizes the work of Nobel laureate Ōmura Satoshi.
What to See
Campus highlights
- Kitasato Institute Headquarters A center of the university’s history and ongoing research.
- School of Pharmacy Modern lecture halls and pharmaceutical laboratories.
- Kitasato Institute Hospital A teaching hospital open to the public, offering a view of clinical education.
- Research centers These include the Ōmura Satoshi Memorial Institute.
- Exhibits Historical displays cover Dr. Kitasato’s achievements in immunology and bacteriology, as well as the university’s scientific history and research. Some guided tours also explore Nobel Prize-winning research.
- Central Library Holds extensive medical and life sciences resources. Visitor access varies, so check its policies ahead of time.
- Campus gardens and nearby temple grounds Quiet places to relax.
The International Student Office provides information on admissions, scholarships and campus tours (Kitasato University International).
Shibasaburo Kitasato Monument
Located near the Shirokane Campus, the monument’s plaza and gardens are used for photography. It has paved paths, benches and shaded areas, and signage guides visitors from major transit stations.
The Kitasato University Museum offers further insight into the university’s scientific history. Sagamihara Green Park is also listed among nearby sites.
Events and photography
The university hosts public lectures, symposia and exhibitions focused on life sciences and medical innovation. The Kitasato Institute anniversary may include open days and special guided tours; schedules are posted on the university website.
Annual events at the monument on Dr. Kitasato’s birthday and World Health Day include lectures, exhibitions and educational activities. Photography is allowed in designated areas, including the historic exhibition hall and outdoor spaces. The monument’s plaza and gardens are also suitable for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Follow posted rules, particularly in hospital and laboratory areas.
Practical Visiting Information
Hours
- Shirokane Campus Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Sundays and national holidays. Special events may affect these hours; check the university website before visiting.
- Shibasaburo Kitasato Monument Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, except on national holidays and during maintenance periods.
Admission and tours
General campus areas and historical exhibits are free to visit. Special exhibitions or guided tours may require advance reservations and a nominal fee.
Guided tours in Japanese and English are available by appointment and typically last 60 minutes. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak periods. Tours of the monument are available for groups and individuals; book online or at the visitor center.
Accessibility and facilities
The campus has ramps, elevators and accessible restrooms. Designated parking spaces are available for visitors with disabilities, and additional support can be arranged on request. Limited visitor parking is available; public transportation is recommended for convenience.
The monument has wheelchair-accessible paved paths, benches and shaded areas. The campus and monument have accessible routes and facilities.
Campus cafeterias serve Japanese and international cuisine during lunch hours, 11:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Getting there
The Shirokane Campus is a 10-minute walk from Shirokane-Takanawa Station on the Tokyo Metro Namboku and Toei Mita Lines. Hiroo Station is also nearby. Multiple bus lines connect the campus to districts including Shibuya, Ebisu and Tamachi (StudyJapan).
Haneda Airport has direct train and bus access to Minato City. Narita Airport is accessible by Narita Express or airport buses. Suica and Pasmo IC cards can simplify travel around Tokyo (TimeOut Tokyo).
Contact and further information
For current information, event schedules and campus maps, see the official Kitasato University website or contact the Shirokane Campus administrative office at +81-42-778-9765 (StudyJapan). Advance contact is recommended for group visits or academic arrangements.
Further information is available from the following sources:
- Visiting Kitasato University: History, Tours, and Visitor Information, 2025, Kitasato University (Kitasato University Shirokane Campus)
- Visiting Kitasato University Tokyo: Campus Guide, Facilities & Visitor Information, 2025, Kitasato University (Kitasato University Official Site)
- Kitasato University Shirokane Campus: Visiting Hours, Access, and Travel Tips in Tokyo, 2025, StudyJapan and TimeOut Tokyo (StudyJapan), (TimeOut Tokyo)
- Edarabia: Kitasato University
- Travels with Elle: Tokyo Travel Tips
- Kitasato University Campus Access Guide
Travel Tips and Etiquette
- Best time to visit Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather (Travels with Elle).
- Cash and cards Some shops may be cash-only, so carry yen (Travels with Elle).
- IC cards Suica or Pasmo cards simplify transit and small purchases.
- Tax-free shopping International visitors spending over ¥5,500 at one store can shop tax-free by presenting a passport (TimeOut Tokyo).
- Luggage Baggage storage or delivery services are available at major stores and airports (TimeOut Tokyo).
- Internet Campus Wi-Fi is limited to students and staff; pocket Wi-Fi or a SIM can provide internet access.
- Safety and campus etiquette The area is described as safe, reflecting Tokyo’s low crime rate. Keep quiet in study areas, ask permission before taking photographs and use designated smoking areas.
- Monument admission Entry is free; donations for site maintenance are welcome.
Nearby Places
Shirokane’s attractions include:
- Institute for Nature Study An urban nature reserve with walking trails and seasonal flora.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum Art deco architecture and gardens.
- Platinum Street (Shirokane-dori) Cafes, boutiques and bakeries.
- Happo-en Garden A traditional Japanese garden with seasonal events.
Convenience stores, ATMs and pharmacies are within walking distance. International card withdrawals are available at 7-Eleven and Lawson stores (TimeOut Tokyo).
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Kitasato University’s visiting hours?
The Shirokane Campus is open Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, and closed Sundays and national holidays. The monument is open daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, except on national holidays and during maintenance periods.
Is there an admission fee?
General campus access and historical exhibits are free. Some special exhibitions or tours may require a reservation and fee.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Japanese and English campus tours are available by appointment; monument tours are available for groups and individuals.
Is the campus accessible?
Yes. The campus has ramps, elevators and accessible restrooms.
Can I take photographs?
Photography is permitted in designated areas and most public areas. Follow posted guidelines, especially in hospital and laboratory zones.
