Seisen University

Seisen is a Catholic liberal arts university focusing in particular on women’s education. Its educational ideals are based on Christian Humanism, which means seeking to find what is meaningful and valuable in life, according to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The university’s motto, Veritas et Caritas, expresses the fundamental principles of seeking truth (Veritas) and realizing love through human service (Caritas). Guided by these principles, the University is committed to developing in women genuine wisdom, love and strength for the needs of the age. Seisen endeavors to nurture women to become responsible, independent and public-spirited members of society.

The educational ideals of Seisen University are based on the principles of Christian humanism. Believing that we are created with dignity, we are committed to developing genuine wisdom through education, independence, and self-awareness, as well as love and respect for the humanity of others, in order to realize the true value of each person and the world.

According our motto Veritas et Caritas, Seisen provides quality education to achieve the following goals:

The seeking of universal truth through academic studies, enhancing awareness of humanity, human relations, the relationships between human beings and the environment, and respect toward different cultures and characteristics.

The formation of independent character, enabling students to study and face real issues with the ability to think, judge, express, and act.

The education of respectable members of human society who can value and respect the humanity of ourselves and others, through having the love of humanity.

The events following the great earthquake and tsunami of March 11, 2011 have brought us renewed calls to meet the difficult challenges of our times. This has reaffirmed and strengthened Seisen’s mission to educate women of genuine wisdom who can serve the needs of society. We believe that Seisen graduates will work to strengthen both local communities at home and the wider global network of understanding and cooperation among all people, countries, and cultures throughout the world.

The campus of Seisen University is rich in nature and history. Located in the Gotanda section of Shinagawa Ward in the south of Tokyo, the campus is situated on Shimazu Hill, named after the Duke of Shimazu, whose stately mansion with its traditional Japanese garden dominated the area. This mansion was designed by the noted British Architect Dr. Josiah Condor, who was one of the most influential figures in the history of modern Japanese architecture.

It has now become Seisen’s main building and it continues to be a landmark in the area, which has now become a quiet, green, upscale residential area. This main building has been designated as a Culturally Important Building by the City of Tokyo.

At the center of the garden stands a great Chinese sycamore tree, which is over 200 years old. The garden changes its countenance depending on the season: cherry blossoms haze the sky in spring; azalea flowers brighten the garden in early summer; red and yellow leaves with evergreen trees create subtle shades of gradations in autumn; and snow covered ground makes everything pure and white. Thus, Seisen University’s environment, so green and serene, yet in the center of the Tokyo metropolis, is something the university proudly offers to its students.

Tokyo is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the world, where centuries-old traditions and contemporary trends co-exist, creating a rich mixture of culture, business, and technology. The Seisen campus is conveniently located, with three railway and subway stations all within easy walking distance, providing access to all parts of Tokyo and its surrounding areas and ensuring high mobility for students.

There are many rewarding sights to see in Tokyo and its vicinity, including museums, temples, gardens, art exhibitions and performances, and many other cultural events. The nearby areas of Shibuya and Harajuku are Meccas for pop culture. Sightseeing and shopping in Asakusa and Ginza are also conveniently accessible via public transportation.

Scenic places outside Tokyo can also be easily accessed by the shinkansen (“bullet train”) from the nearby Shinagawa station. One-day trips from the campus to Yokohama or Kamakura can easily be arranged.