Tokyo Dental College

Tokyo Dental College Visiting Guide: Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Tokyo Dental College (TDC), founded in 1890, stands as Japan’s oldest dental school and a cornerstone of the nation’s modern dental education system. Established by Dr. Kisai Takayama during the transformative Meiji era, the college not only pioneered dental training in Japan but also set the standard for professional practice and research in oral health. Today, TDC’s campuses in Chiyoda and Suidobashi districts offer a blend of historical architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, making it a compelling destination for prospective students, dental professionals, and cultural tourists alike. This guide delivers an in-depth overview of TDC’s legacy, practical visitor information, and nearby attractions for a rewarding Tokyo experience.

Saikachizaka Building at Suidobashi Campus Tokyo Dental College Chiyoda Tokyo Japan

Main building of Suidobashi Campus Tokyo Dental College in Chiyoda-ku Tokyo Japan

New Building of Suidobashi Campus Tokyo Dental College in Chiyoda-ku Tokyo Japan

Front view of Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital building

About Tokyo Dental College: History and Significance
Key Historical Milestones
Institutional Growth and National Impact
Visiting Information
Campus Highlights
Nearby Attractions
Recent Developments and Future Directions
Visitor FAQ
Summary and Visitor Tips
References

About Tokyo Dental College: History and Significance

Tokyo Dental College began as Takayama Dental School in 1890, founded by Dr. Kisai Takayama, a pioneering samurai-turned-dentist. At a time when dental practice in Japan was largely informal and reliant on foreign expertise, Dr. Takayama’s vision introduced structured, Western-style dental education into the rapidly modernizing society of Meiji-era Japan (We-Xpats; PubMed).
In 1906, the school was renamed Tokyo Dental College following the enactment of the Dental Law, which formalized and standardized dental education across the country (Tokyo Dental College History). The institution quickly became the nation’s leading center for dental research, clinical training, and public health outreach.

Over its 130-year history, TDC has been recognized for:

Establishing the first regulated dental curriculum in Japan
Advancing research in dental materials, techniques, and preventive care
Producing notable alumni, including bacteriologist Hideyo Noguchi
Fostering international collaboration and global academic exchanges (Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Campus Visitor Guide)

Key Historical Milestones

1890: Takayama Dental School founded by Dr. Kisai Takayama (We-Xpats)
1906: Renamed Tokyo Dental College; Dental Law enacted
1949: Dental Hygiene School established
1981: New campus construction completed
1990: 100th anniversary and headquarters building inaugurated
2012–2013: New Saikachizaka School Building and Suidobashi Annex added
Recent years: Expansion of research and international partnerships

Institutional Growth and National Impact

TDC’s curriculum, modeled on Western dental education (notably from the United States), set the benchmark for dental schools nationwide. The college emphasized both theoretical instruction and practical clinical training, ensuring graduates were equipped to advance oral healthcare standards in Japan (We-Xpats).
Beyond education, TDC became a hub for research, innovation, and public health initiatives, contributing to national policy and raising awareness of oral hygiene across diverse communities.

Leadership transitions, infrastructural enhancements, and sustained academic excellence have marked the college’s journey. Its integration with Tokyo’s broader modernization and proximity to other universities have enabled rich interdisciplinary collaborations (Japan Experience).

Visiting Information

Hours and Admission

Campus Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Admission: Free for public exhibitions, historical displays, and guided tours (by appointment). Special events may require registration or a nominal fee.
Note: Access may be restricted during weekends, holidays, or special academic events. Contact the college in advance to confirm availability.

Guided Tours and Booking

Guided Tours: Available by appointment, especially for academic groups, prospective students, and visitors interested in dental history.
How to Book: Contact the TDC visitor services or admissions office well in advance. English-speaking guides are available on request.

Campus Location and Access

Main Address: 2-9-18 Kandasurugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan (Suidobashi Campus)
Nearest Stations: Suidobashi Station (JR Sobu Line), Ochanomizu Station (JR Chuo Line)
Accessibility: The campus is a short walk from either station and located near several historical sites (TDC Access Map).

Accessibility

Facilities: Wheelchair accessible; ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms available.
Special Assistance: Contact the visitor center ahead of your visit for assistance or specific accessibility needs (Chiyoda Barrier-Free Info).

Visitor Tips

Wear comfortable shoes; the campus covers multiple buildings and outdoor spaces.
Photography is permitted in designated areas; always observe posted signs and respect privacy.
Most signage is in Japanese; arrange for English-speaking assistance if needed.

Campus Highlights

Library and Learning Resources

Over 200,000 volumes in dentistry, medicine, and health sciences
Access for researchers and students; visitors may arrange access by appointment (TDC Campus)

Auditorium and Gymnasium

Auditorium (503 seats) hosts lectures, ceremonies, and events
Gymnasium includes facilities for kendo, judo, and general training

Dental Hygiene School

Established in 1949, Japan’s first dental hygienist school
Located at TDC’s Chiba Campus, offering a three-year program

Nearby Attractions

Kanda Shrine: Historic Shinto shrine, famous for vibrant festivals
Akihabara Electric Town: Electronics and pop culture hub
Yushima Seido: Edo-period Confucian temple
Tokyo Dome City: Major event and entertainment complex
Imperial Palace: Historic residence with scenic gardens
Ueno Park: Museums, zoo, and cherry blossoms (The Travelling Hiker)

Recent Developments and Future Directions

TDC continues to innovate by integrating digital dentistry, minimally invasive techniques, and interdisciplinary research into its curriculum. The college actively welcomes international students and researchers, participating in global dental education networks and cross-border initiatives (We-Xpats).
Ongoing campus upgrades and research partnerships ensure that TDC remains a leader in both Japanese and global dental science.

Visitor FAQ

Q: Can the public visit Tokyo Dental College?
A: Yes, but visits are by appointment or during special events. Contact the college in advance.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Admission to public areas and exhibitions is free; some special events may require a fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours can be arranged by contacting visitor services ahead of time.

Q: Is the campus accessible for disabled visitors?
A: The campus is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are there English-speaking guides or materials?
A: English-speaking guides are available by prior arrangement; some materials are offered in English.

Q: Are there on-site dining options?
A: The campus cafeteria is primarily for students and staff; many cafes and restaurants are located nearby.

Q: Can tourists access dental clinics at TDC?
A: Clinics are for patient care; access for tourists is limited and requires prior arrangement.

Summary and Visitor Tips

Tokyo Dental College is a living testament to Japan’s modernization and commitment to oral health. From world-class dental education to its culturally rich location, TDC offers visitors a unique blend of historical legacy, academic innovation, and convenient access to some of Tokyo’s most famous sites.
For the best experience:

Arrange your visit in advance and confirm tour availability
Respect campus etiquette and photography guidelines
Combine your campus tour with visits to nearby shrines, parks, and entertainment districts

Stay updated on TDC’s events and visitor news through their official website, and consider using the Audiala app for real-time campus information and travel tips.