About

Since its founding in 1868, Bukkyo University has been a learner-centered research university providing high quality educational experiences while pursuing new knowledge through teaching, research, and interdisciplinary and engaged scholarship.

We have given students the knowledge, insight, skills, and experience to become leaders for the common good. Based upon the teachings of Gotama-Buddha and Reverend Honen, the founder of the Pure Land Buddhism, Bukkyo University is decidedly global in outlook and diverse in perspectives, which are now represented by the students (both domestic and foreign), faculty, and staff.

Bukkyo University draws its basic inspiration from the teachings of Buddha and Reverend Honen as the source of wisdom. As a comprehensive university grounded in the core values of Reverend Honen, the founder of the Pure Land Buddhism, we educate students to think critically, act positively, communicate effectively, succeed professionally and lead ethically.

Grounded in the spirit of Buddhism, Bukkyo University has long pursued a mission that goes beyond the acquisition of knowledge: nurturing meaningful human connections and cultivating a compassionate heart that cares for others. With this spirit in mind, we have introduced a new logo and a tagline that clearly reflects our guiding philosophy:
“A world overflowing with gratitude.”

The word “arigatou” (thank you) is more than a simple greeting—it expresses heartfelt appreciation for someone’s presence or actions. It carries the warmth of human connection, mutual care, and support. At Bukkyo University, we embrace the Buddhist values embodied in this single word, and we aim to help each student grow into someone who not only feels gratitude but can express it through action. Through this journey of learning, we are committed to nurturing individuals who can live harmoniously with others and contribute to creating a better future.

No matter how much society changes, we will remain steadfast in our dedication to the essence of education—nurturing human potential. We strive to integrate tradition with innovation, focusing not just on imparting knowledge, but on fostering wisdom and personal growth. Alongside knowledge, we emphasize the development of empathy, a spirit of collaboration, and the strength to live with respect for diverse values. To support this, we offer numerous opportunities for students to learn actively and engage with society through practical experiences, helping them grow into creators of the future.

Our university is built upon three foundational pillars: education, research, and community engagement. In education, we aim to cultivate the ability to create new value through collaboration, not just deepen knowledge. In research, we not only pursue academic excellence but also generate practical knowledge to address real-world issues and build a better tomorrow. In our community initiatives, we place great importance on our relationship with the local society, encouraging students to engage directly with their communities and apply their learning in meaningful ways. Through these efforts, we hope to create an environment where diverse people within and beyond the university naturally inspire one another and foster a spirit of gratitude.

In the coming era, what will be needed most is not only knowledge and skills but also the ability to value relationships, grow together with others, and contribute to society. Bukkyo University remains a place of learning to meet those needs. It is our hope that all who study here will become people who express and receive “thank you”, spreading that spirit across the world.

Let us work together to create “A world overflowing with gratitude.”

Bukkyo University President Kazuyuki Sato