Temple University Japan (TUJ) marks a new chapter with the grand opening of Temple University, Japan Campus Kyoto, further cementing Temple University’s role as a leader in fostering global education across Japan.  
 
Officially named Temple University, Japan Campus Kyoto (TUJ Kyoto), this multibuilding facility celebrated its grand opening on Jan. 24. The new satellite location expands the university’s existing presence in Japan, which had previously been based solely in Tokyo.

“Congratulations to Temple University Japan on the opening of its new satellite location in Kyoto. TUJ is the oldest and largest American university in Japan, and its expansion to the historic city of Kyoto further extends Temple’s global reach,” said Temple University President John Fry. “Temple University, Japan Campus Kyoto will serve new and current students alike, and just as importantly, it will allow us to expand study abroad opportunities for students at Main Campus in Philadelphia. This is the latest example of how Temple offers a gateway to the world.” 
 
TUJ Kyoto aims to create a multicultural learning environment in the world-class city of Kyoto, renowned for its blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. “We are thrilled to celebrate the opening of Temple University, Japan Campus Kyoto. Temple’s new location in the ancient capital and cultural mecca of Kyoto is deeply meaningful,” said Temple University Provost Gregory N. Mandel. “As we advance shared goals around education, research and partnership, this new location provides exciting opportunities for both students and faculty. Global engagement has historically been central to Temple’s priorities, and this new location demonstrates this enduring commitment now and in the future.” 
 
Aiming to foster international education and cross-cultural understanding in Kyoto, TUJ has recently embarked on collaborative agreements with prefectures and municipal governments to enhance English teacher training and prepare young students for global studies and careers. Additionally, TUJ Kyoto will launch a master’s in communication management one-year degree program in September 2025 in collaboration with Temple University’s Klein College of Media and Communication.  
 
This development marks another significant step in expanding Temple University’s international presence, which now includes its main campus in Philadelphia; campuses in Tokyo and Rome; this new location in Kyoto; and study abroad opportunities on nearly every continent. 
 
The grand opening ceremony was attended by more than 200 distinguished guests, including government officials, educators and industry leaders. Hosted by TUJ Dean Matthew Wilson, notable attendees included Kyoto Prefecture Governor Takatoshi Nishiwaki, Kyoto City Mayor Koji Matsui, U.S. Consul General of the Consulate at Osaka-Kobe Jason Cubas, the vice governor of Nagasaki, the ambassador of Ukraine and President Fry, who led a delegation from Temple’s Main Campus in Philadelphia.  
 
The event featured campus tours, a panel discussion on global leadership and hospitality management, a tea ceremony by TUJ faculty, live art by award-winning TUJ student Rin Sato, speeches, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.  
 
Founded in 1982, TUJ is the largest and oldest foreign university campus in Japan. The campus celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022 and has continued to increase in enrollment ever since. Over the past four years, TUJ has seen its undergraduate enrollment more than double.  
 
Presently, the campus enrolls nearly 2,700 undergraduate students and over 200 graduate students who come from 80 countries. To date, TUJ has conferred more than 7,000 degrees, and its impact is sure to grow in the years to come given the expansion to Kyoto. 
 
Wilson, who spearheaded this new initiative, remarked that Temple University has always been a pioneer. “Forty-three years ago, Temple built the first physical educational bridge between the United States and Japan by establishing an overseas campus in Tokyo. It was a bold move, and while the road has never been easy, Temple both persevered and excelled. Nearly 40 other universities attempted similar ventures in Japan but could not sustain their presence. TUJ succeeded because of Temple’s belief in the power of education to transcend borders, cultures and challenges,” Wilson said. 
 
To facilitate its expansion in Kyoto, TUJ has partnered with Kyoto-based Seibo Jogakuin, a private Catholic educational institution focused on global education which owns the buildings where TUJ Kyoto resides.  
 
Initially, TUJ Kyoto will offer undergraduate and graduate programs in English, with plans to expand its academic offerings further. In addition, the forthcoming master’s in communication management program is designed to enhance skills in leadership, public relations and crisis management for entry- and mid-level professionals.  
 
With roots in both Tokyo and Kyoto, TUJ has also been able to strengthen its collaborations with local institutions. A recent agreement with the Osaka Board of Education aims to advance nondegree English language programs that support primary and secondary education across the region, and a partnership with Ryukoku University will offer joint academic research opportunities and cultural exchange programs. 
 
“Today, TUJ continues to transform the lives of students from 80 countries and the global community through the power of international education,” Wilson said. “TUJ Kyoto will amplify our positive impact by offering students a gateway to explore global education, innovative ideas and shared aspirations in one of the most culturally rich cities in the world.”