Waseda Hoshien is a public interest incorporated foundation that, based on Christian principles, looks at society from an international perspective and works as a place for forming people who live together with others. Its history began in 1908 (Meiji 41) with the opening of the student dormitory "Yu-Ai Dormitory."
In 1921 (Taisho 10), Scott Hall was completed thanks to a donation, and the foundation of today's student center, including the dormitory, was laid. The Seminar House was completed in 1970, the organization was approved as an incorporated foundation in 1972, and Asian language courses began in 1973. In 2011 it was certified by the Cabinet Office and became a public interest incorporated foundation, and a ceremony for the 100th anniversary of Scott Hall was held in 2022.
Its work has three main parts: the dormitory program, where more than 150 young people, including university and graduate students from Japan and abroad, live together; the activity program, which offers courses and hands-on opportunities in four areas ("Knowing the world," "Learning languages," "Learning art," and "Learning about life and society"); and the Seminar House program, which provides meeting rooms, halls and a gallery.
Key points
- A history of more than 100 years, starting from the student dormitory "Yu-Ai Dormitory" in 1908
- Dormitories where young people from Japan and abroad live together, and learning programs in four areas
- Citizens can use the halls, meeting rooms and gallery in historic buildings
Why this organization deserves attention
Its strength is that it combines shared dormitory life with courses on international understanding, languages and multicultural coexistence, continuing to create chances for people from many backgrounds to meet. It is also noted for pioneering efforts, such as starting Asian language courses early.
The Seminar House has long been loved as a place for activities by students and citizens, including study groups, music practice and concerts, and art exhibitions. There are many ways in, such as joining a course or renting a venue.
Editor's comment
A place handed down across generations seems to have the power to bring people together and let them exchange words. Waseda Hoshien puts that power to use today through international exchange and learning.
There are easy-to-join programs, including courses, events and gallery exhibitions. Why not look through the programs on the official website?