Keio University School of Medicine

Tokyo, Japan

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Established as the fourth department of Keio University in 1917, the Keio University School of Medicine was the first private medical school in Japan. Its history of foundation goes back to the Keio Igakusho (Institute of Medicine), which was established in 1873, decades after Japan emerged from an era of feudalism and opened its door to the world in 1853, ending its long isolation which lasted for more than two centuries. In 1956, a doctoral program was established at the Graduate School of Medicine. A master's program followed in 1994. Over the past 100 years, Keio University School of Medicine has become a major center for world-leading medical research and education, and plays an indispensable role in the development of medical care in Japan.

The School of Medicine works to unite basic research and clinical practice in order to achieve medical excellence, an ambition laid out by the school’s first dean, Dr. Shibasaburo Kitasato. At the same time, we honor Keio University founder Yukichi Fukuzawa and his philosophy of empirical science, independence and self-respect, and mutual teaching and learning between teachers and pupils. We are at the forefront of innovative, cutting-edge basic and clinical research, and also conduct transdisciplinary joint research with the faculties of Science and Technology, Pharmacy, and Nursing and Medical Care. Keio University students have always been involved in a wide range of international activities. That global focus is especially important today as medicine continues to advance and internationalize. We recognize the importance of providing truly a global medical education and are actively engaged in study abroad programs and international exchange.

Our campus locates in Shinjuku-ward, a major economic hub of Tokyo with the busiest railway station in the world and towering skyscrapers including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and many headquarters of Japan’s major companies. Our hospital gives you a view of unique landscape amongst those buildings; on a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji to the west and Tokyo Tower and Tokyo SkyTree to the east.  See our video here!

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Looking forward to hosting you in the capital of Japan. Come join us at the Keio University School of Medicine!