Kyoto University Newsletter

Greetings from Kyoto-U SPRING 2010 Issue 17 Raku-Yu Kyoto University Newsletter CONTENTS Kyoto and Kyoto University for International Students Editor in Chief 1 Shuzo NISHIMURA, Executive Vice-President, Kyoto University Yasushi TONAGA 2 SPECIAL FEATURE Associate Editor Kyoto University Navigating the Era of International Competition Naoko SAITO

-- Promoting International Collaboration and Tie-Ups Senior Editors Hiroshi MATSUMOTO, President of Kyoto University and Patricio-Nunez ABINALES Shinya YAMANAKA, Director of Center for iPS Cell Research and Application Junko HASHIKATA 6 FEATURES Takumi IKEDA A New Global COE Program: “Sustainability / Survivability Science for Yuko KIZU a Resilient Society Adaptable to Extreme Weather Conditions” Satoshi MATSUSHITA Program Leader: Kaoru TAKARA, Professor, Disaster Prevention Research Institute Mitsuhiro SHISHIKURA Academic Cooperation and Exchange Memorandum signed with Chisa SHUKUNAMI the ASEAN University Network (AUN) Junko TAKAMI Foreign language Publication of “MANGA Kyoto University” Setsuhisa TANABE Keiichi TODA 8 Forefronts of Research at kyoto University Discovery of a small molecule that inhibits the “playmaker” of fat synthesis Editorial Collaborator Motonari UESUGI, Professor, Research Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences KOSOSHA CO.,LTD. 10 Essay In search of Ancient Texts and their Proper Interpretations Printed by Diwakar ACHARYA, Visiting Lecturer, Department of Indological Studies, Faculty of Letters KOSAIDO CO.,LTD. 11 Interview My dream is to contribute to the efforts to create an egalitarian world order. © The Committee of Public Relations Multitudes of actions at various levels are required in order to realize this dream. of Kyoto University Bhaskar GAUTAM, graduate student, the Graduate School of Asian and African Area Studies (ASAFAS) A Note on Order of Names 12 What's Happening in International Relations As a general rule, names appearing The 1st Vietnam-Japan University Presidents' Conference in Raku-Yu are written in given President Hiroshi Matsumoto attends the 6th China-Japan University Presidents' Forum name/family name order. Zhejiang University holds "Kyoto University Days" 14 PROMENADE – A religious space filled with the prayers of the people Raku-Yu means to respect, Fushimi Inari Shrine treasure, and enjoy one's friendship. Editor's Notes Globalization has affected the scene of cross-cultural relationships. A drive towards “one language, one world” is promoted as a vision of a globalized world. To become cosmopolitan in today’s globalized context, we face new challenges: how to This name was taken from the assembly hall called "Raku-Yu expand the boundaries of cultures without losing those cultures in the boundless forms of standardization and assimilation; Kaikan" that commemorated and how to avoid a retreat from cosmopolitanism into the narrowness of reactionary forms of patriotism. In response to the 25th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto University. these challenges, it is hoped that this volume of Raku-Yu will open new prospects in various ways – especially through its publication of the dialogue between President Hiroshi Matsumoto of Kyoto University and Professor Shinya Yamanaka.

Front Picture: the Chinretsukan Since its establishment in 1897, Kyoto University had planned to build a museum for storing and managing scientific specimens. After 1907, when the College of Letters - predecessor to the Faculty of Letters - was established, collecting activities for arts, archaeological, geographical and other materials accelerated. From the necessity of storing and managing those arts and materials in order to continue research, the Chinretsukan (exhibition hall) was built in 1914 as an attached facility to the College of Letters. Thanks to its precious collections that were remarkable as those owned by the single department, many scientific achievements that received domestic and international attention were realized there. Later, in 1959, the hall was renamed Hakubutsukan (museum) and its functions as a museum, including publication of collection catalogues, were strengthened. These achievements were properly This gorgeous building is basically Neo-Baroque at large, featuring the passed on to the present-day Kyoto University Museum, completed in 2001, pediment at the entrance, the round small window above it and the turret on the ridge of the roof, with Secession designs also adopted in where other collections owned by scientific departments were incorporated. detailing. The building is a national registered tangible cultural property. Shuzo NISHIMURA Dr. Nishimura was born in Kyoto in 1945 and has held the position of Executive Vice-President since 2006. For the first 2 years, he took on a leading role in the implementation of initiatives for the internationalization of Kyoto University as the supervisor for International Relations. Last year, his effort was materialized as K.U. PROFILE Program (a program that enables students to take courses and obtain degrees in English) and was a driving force behind the Program being selected by the Global 30 Project for Establishing Core Universities for Internationalization promoted by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. Then from 2008, as an Education and Student Affairs supervisor, Dr. Nishimura commenced the implementation of initiatives for students in Japan to study abroad by enhancing programs such as short term training courses. “I feel very lucky to hold such a position. Since I transferred from the position of International Relations supervisor to Education and Student Affairs supervisor, I have been able to combine the promotion of the internationalization of a university with the previous program that focused on the education of international students studying in Japan. It’s just a pity that now I do not have time to go to the opera which I enjoy so much,” Executive Vice-President Nishimura remarks. Dr. Nishimura eagerly performs activities everyday to greatly increase Kyoto University’s profile in the world.

Kyoto and Kyoto University for International Students

My guess is that about ninety percent of language used Kyoto University’s academic style is characterized by in conversation at the Kyoto University campus is Japanese, three words, “free-thinking, self-reliance and dialogue.” We although more than half of the people on campus can under- encourage our students to pursue study and research based on stand and can speak English. In classes, especially in graduate their own personal interests and talents, as this often leads to courses, both professors and students use English, when at innovation and new discoveries. We encourage international least one student cannot understand Japanese. These are the students to follow these approaches. Professors will warmly typical examples of the present situation of language used at supervise these kinds of approaches and will engage in active Kyoto University. discussions. Many of our alumni, including five Nobel Prize Recently Kyoto University launched a new project laureates, approve of these approaches. called K.U. PROFILE (Kyoto University Project for Future Finally, let me talk about myself. I was born and grew up in International Leaders). This project aims to provide talented Kyoto. I spent several years in Yokohama (Japan), Cambridge students from around the world with the instruction, research and Boston (United States) and York (England). All of these experience and global perspective they need to become world- cities are international cities. While I love all these cities, my class leaders in their fields. The program comprises of eleven most favorite city remains to be Kyoto. I am proud of being master’s and doctoral courses and one undergraduate course in a citizen of Kyoto. Everywhere in Kyoto we can see sur- English. Special emphasis is placed on the way students can rounding mountains in three directions. Kamo River is also an obtain degrees without understanding Japanese. important symbol of Kyoto. Furthermore, ample amounts of While, through this project, Kyoto University welcomes clean water allows us to produce sake (Japanese rice wine). international students who cannot understand Japanese, we Some say that Kyoto is hot and humid in summer and very still recommend that they learn about the Japanese language cold in winter. Although this is true, it is quite comfortable in and culture, after coming to Kyoto. We want them to appre- spring and in autumn. This kind of dramatic change in climate, ciate the unique characteristics of Kyoto University, which I believe, makes us aware of the harmony between nature and is located in a city considered by many to be the “heart of human kind. I invite all of you to experience Kyoto. Japan.” Kyoto is a city of striking natural beauty, numerous historical sites and deep traditional culture. Although we are preparing to provide several English courses on both Japanese and Asian history and culture, stu- Shuzo NISHIMURA dents are advised to study Japanese, possibly with Chinese and Executive Vice-President, Kyoto University Korean.

1 Special Feature

Kyoto University Navigating the Era of International Competition —Promoting International Collaboration and Tie-Ups

With economic activities and information communications becoming increasingly globalized, the academic research community is experiencing a growing trend of international collaboration and tie-ups in research. Meanwhile, the community is also facing ever more intensifi ed international competition for innovative research results and related intellectual properties. This issue of Raku-Yu features a dialogue between President Hiroshi Matsumoto, who takes the initiative in developing Kyoto University into a more internationalized organization, and Professor Shinya Yamanaka, the world’s leading researcher into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells)*, the fi rst scientist in the world who succeeded in generating such cells from human skin cells. The two interlocutors discussed diverse issues, including a number of challenges in internationalizing universities and facilitating international interactions among researchers.

International collaboration and of researchers not only from Japan, but also Cardiovascular Disease of the University of tie-ups based upon trust between from Europe and the U.S., and more recently California, San Francisco, in the U.S. Since individuals from other Asian countries and regions. You progress in this field is extremely rapid, active are also pursuing your research beyond collaboration with overseas institutes is now Hiroshi Matsumoto: At Kyoto University, national borders, and belong to an American a requisite for efficient research. But at the a considerable number of international joint institute as well. Furthermore, your research same time, we have to be aware of the fact that research projects have already been imple- has attracted the interest of European and East such institutes are our rivals. I realize that it mented by our researchers at an individual Asian researchers. Now that your research may not be easy to strike a delicate balance level, and we are aiming to promote further activities into iPS cells are at the forefront of between collaboration and competition, but internationalization of research activities as a worldwide efforts in this field, they are, in a nevertheless, what I believe is important for university-wide effort. Your research into iPS sense, an ideal model of international joint us is to become acquainted with overseas cells are being conducted internationally more research. Professor Yamanaka, would you researchers and nurture good relationships than ever before, involving a large number share your views and experiences regarding on an individual basis. And by doing so, we how researchers can collaborate internationally are building desirable relations with overseas in their research activities? researchers, so that we can work together with Shinya Yamanaka: The Center for iPS Cell them on crucial issues in research processes, Research and Application (CiRA), which I while at the same time being in rivalry. This is direct, is vigorously promoting international the current situation we are in. collaboration. We have official tie-ups with HM: I often cite my belief: “Academic research the University of Toronto in Ontario Province, and education inevitably embodies human Canada, and the Gladstone Institute of relations around the truth.” The prerequisite for

* iPS cells In animals, only fertilized eggs have the capability of developing into any kind of organ or tissue, or pluripotency. Cells produced by artificially giving this capability to somatic cells are called iPS cells or induced pluripotent stem cells. Professor Yamanaka and his team succeeded, for the first time in the world, in generating iPS cells derived from mouse cells and reported it in 2006. They also announced the generation of iPS cells from human skin cells in November 2007. Since then, iPS cells have been in the spotlight as a ground-breaking technology that can open up new possibilities for regenerative medicine and for treatments for intractable diseases, because rejection in patients can be avoided by using iPS cells that are produced from the patients’ own cells. iPS cells also President Hiroshi MATSUMOTO show promise for a range of other applications, including new drug development.

2 joint research efforts is mutual trust between who are engaged in different research activi- Institute as a visiting scientist in 2007, I researchers, whether the counterpart is an ties in related fields. It is especially the case noticed a considerable change in this aware- individual researcher or a group. But obvi- for researchers in the iPS cell and other ness there. Actually, it took one to two years ously, many people have many minds, so it’s experiment-oriented fields and those in other to conclude an agreement related to collab- sometimes challenging to ensure an optimal cutting-edge fields who are making progress orative research with the Gladstone. I recognize coordination among researchers, and therein at lightning speed. A small tip can lead to a that the approach we take regarding intel- lies one of the difficulties in proceeding with big stride toward the next stage. Through lectual property rights will be a critical issue joint research. I guess you might have also mutual inspiration, research advancement can in proceeding with future international joint experienced a similar difficulty. How do you be expedited. Meanwhile, after you visit the projects. While we need a proper arrangement cope with this issue at the Gladstone Institute, Gladstone and other overseas institutes and regarding these rights to facilitate a project, where you’ve been working as a visiting scien- interact with researchers there, you will be taking too much time to establish such an tist since 2007? Are you enjoying working expected to bring new ideas and knowledge arrangement may obstruct the joint research. there? back to Japan and share them with Japanese SY: Yes. Actually, I worked at the Gladstone researchers. What do you think is the ideal way Institute 15 years ago as a postdoctoral fellow. to do this? I feel it is like my second home. What I learned there helps me to overcome the difficulties. Intellectual properties as “weapons” HM: My area of expertise is space science. and “barriers” in international joint In overseas institutes of this area, in general, research although each researcher has a relatively small room, they share a spacious common floor, SY: American researchers have a strong where they enjoy active discussions over a awareness of intellectual properties. I hope cup of coffee or tea. And they often hit upon we can enter into robust collaboration with good ideas during such discussions. At the the Gladstone Institute, the University of Gladstone Institute, which specializes in life Toronto and other institutes, so that we can science, I suppose there are similar exchanges freely exchange new ideas and knowledge with of ideas in various locations, including in the them. But there is still a long way to go before experimental labs. reaching this goal. SY: Many life science institutes in Western HM: I think you’ve pointed out a significant nations, not just the Gladstone Institute, issue in considering how academics and other design their new research buildings to incor- research institutes should promote future inter- porate open laboratories. Professors’ labs are national exchange in research activities. For not compartmentalized, and all researchers instance, it is natural for you, as a researcher, share a spacious common laboratory. CiRA’s to seek to share human resources, ideas and new building, scheduled to be completed in intellectual properties between CiRA, based in February 2010, has introduced this open- the new building, and other institutes located ■Profi le space concept. As a basis for international overseas. But on the other hand, such free Shinya YAMANAKA exchange, we should also attach importance sharing and exchange may not necessarily ・ 1987 Graduated from Faculty of to interactions with domestic researchers in be allowed due to diverse policies employed Medicine, Kobe University Japan and even on the same campus. I want to by different institutes in different countries ・1993 Completed doctoral program, Graduate School of Medicine, make interactions within CiRA more active and and regions, regarding how to deal with their Osaka City University deeper, and in this respect, I find the research intellectual properties. What do you make of Postdoctoral Fellow, Gladstone style employed in the Gladstone Institute and this issue? And how do you envisage its future Institute other Western institutes quite instructive. direction? ・2003 Professor, Research and Education HM: I suppose the field of iPS cell research SY: About 15 years ago, when I worked as a Center for Genetic Information, will be more comprehensive, involving a postdoctoral fellow in the U.S., I don’t think Nara Institute of Science and broader range of study. To successfully American researchers were as highly aware Technology work in this field, I think it is helpful for of intellectual property rights as researchers ・2004 Professor, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University researchers to have frank conversations in a are today. They exchanged data and materials ・2007 Senior Investigator, Gladstone shared space, over a cup of coffee maybe, and relatively freely, and there wasn’t a huge gap Institute actively exchange ideas with, or sometimes in data and material availability between Japan ・2008 Director, Center for iPS Cell challenge the ideas of, other researchers and the U.S. When I returned to the Gladstone Research and Application 3 was usually negotiated between researchers science and technology as a key locomotive alone. But recently, an American researcher in developing the country. But just nurturing attends such a negotiation as part of a team of scientists is not enough; it is also necessary four or five that includes assisting members, to value research support officials as equal such as an interpreter, an attorney, a busi- partners of researchers, and to take measures ness representative and others. In contrast, a to increase the number of such specialists. Japanese researcher has to attend such nego- RAKU-YU: This issue needs to be urgently tiations still alone. When it comes to practical addressed, or it will become difficult for Kyoto business, he or she cannot negotiate on a level University to reinforce its role as a major playing field. Therefore, to support Japanese hub for disseminating cutting-edge scientific researchers, I strongly feel we need to secure knowledge to the world. In spite of the rela- a large number of staffs who can assist them tively unfavorable research environment in with an advanced level of expertise, negotia- Japan that we’ve just discussed, Professor tion ability and language proficiency. Attracting Yamanaka succeeded in making the brilliant capable researchers is no doubt important, but discovery that astonished the world. This was, HM: The iPS cell research you are involved Japanese universities should attach the same of course, down to your excellence. But that in is a relevant and significant field in terms importance to securing capable people who aside, what do you think was, and is, helpful in of both intellectual property and academic support researchers. the Japanese research system? Do you find any research. There are a number of challenges HM: I agree. In your case, some assistance strength unique to Japan? lying ahead, and we need to tackle them. has been provided by members of Kyoto SY: Comparatively speaking, the Japanese If we fail to claim and protect our due rights University Office of Society-Academia side has huge advantage in the diligence of regarding intellectual properties, we may fall Collaboration for Innovation. In addition, its researchers. Japanese students work behind in the research race, possibly leaving recently, capacity building for such supporting very hard. But apart from that, the American a negative impact on the general public in functions has been taking place at CiRA. But research system is generally superior to Japan. But at the same time, attempts to there still remains room for improvement. Japan’s — superior in research environment, protect these rights may potentially decelerate Meanwhile, research practice requires such support systems, research budget, and so on. research advancement, due to competing assistants as experimental technicians and In particular, there is a noticeable gap between claims between counterparts. Balancing these data analysis specialists, and these members the two countries in the social status of conflicting factors will be an important focus are generally categorized as research assis- researchers. American researchers are highly we will have to address down the road. tants. In the U.S., there are approximately 0.5 respected in society. The American public is assistants per researcher. But in contrast in fully aware of the importance of researchers Importance of research assistants Japan, the number of assistants per researcher without whom they cannot benefit from new currently stands at less than a fifth of the medicines and treatments. So, some wealthy RAKU-YU: Recently, there has been a growing U.S. level. There is a huge gap between the individuals personally donate generous sums requirement for universities to enhance their two countries. It is absolutely necessary not to basic research institutes, equivalent to one contribution to society by actively dissemi- only for Japanese universities but also for billion to two billion yen (approximately 11 nating and applying their research outcomes the government to recognize the importance million to 22 million USD at the moment). in society, and in this regard, there are a lot of of research assistants. American researchers RAKU-YU: Compared with researchers in discussions about how industry-government- can concentrate on their research activities at Western nations, what aspects do you think are academia collaboration should be promoted all times, thanks to ample support provided to boost such contribution. Do you think such by research assistants. This may partly explain collaboration as seen in Western nations, why numerous research papers are published particularly in the U.S., will be a model for us in the U.S.: researchers work in teams that to follow? Or should we explore an original include research assistants. Given this situ- way that is unique to Japan? Would you share ation, Japanese researchers have competed your opinion, Professor Yamanaka? comparatively well against them. In this SY: In my opinion, the American way will be a respect, a clear recognition must be shared in useful model, given the fact that the U.S. is far Japan that the research budget should cover ahead of us in such collaboration, and has a all of the research-related costs, including huge market. I think we will need to model our personnel expenses for research assistants in In 2009, Professor Yamanaka received the Albert way on theirs to some extent. As for collabora- addition to costs for facilities and equipment. Lasker Basic Medical Research Award, the most prestigious medical award in the U.S. Photo: Prof. tion in joint research, 15 years ago, a project SY: Exactly. Japan has placed emphasis on Yamanaka delivering address at award ceremony

4 Special Feature

characteristic of Japanese researchers, other researchers should make further efforts to than diligence? communicate information to the public, SY: Japanese researchers tend to value tradi- regarding what research they are doing and tional ways, and don’t easily leap at passing how it is useful. I don’t think the general public fads. But at the same time, they necessarily in Japan fully understand the real importance lag behind their overseas counterparts when of science research. There is no doubt that new technologies rapidly emerge. For example, researchers should channel most of their time a technology called DNA microarray, which into research as their duty. But still, they must enables us to investigate tens of thousands of not avoid efforts to encourage the public to genes in a moment with semiconductor tech- understand their research activities. This is nologies, was developed in the U.S. about 15 also their duty. years ago, but it took two to three years before HM: Regardless of the field of study, this technology finally spread in Japan. That researchers are required to communicate what was very frustrating for me. To avoid repeating they are researching and for what purposes. such a delay, I want to push iPS cell research I know you have maintained, from the begin- forward, ensuring the permeation of the new ning, a clear goal of regenerative medicine for Center for iPS Cell Research and Application technology. Looking back over the past two human beings, and you also recognize your (CiRA)) The construction of the new building years since I reported the success in gener- current position on the path to that goal. You of this newly established institute is slated to ating human iPS cells, I think research in this have a vision of your research. Other Japanese be completed this coming February, and your field has advanced considerably, but I still feel researchers should have a vision, like you, and research environment will thus be improved. some regret that we didn’t disseminate the communicate it more frequently to the public. The next focus is how we can build an attrac- technology still further. I’m determined to gear SY: Regarding iPS cell research, we happen tive system that will enable us to gather up to accelerate our research in the next year to be involved in the last activities just before capable human resources. And after all, this or two. reaching the final goal. We first succeeded in could not be achieved without a leader, like generating iPS cells from mouse fibriblasts, yourself, who is visionary and enthusiastic. Researchers telling their own visions and now the goal of applying human iPS cells SY: I want to help enhance the fame of Kyoto in humans is taking shape; we have entered University worldwide. I and all CiRA members SY: I like the word “VW,” which I learned a totally different phase from the past. We are will make all-out efforts to generate new knowl- from the leader of the Gladstone Institute. approaching the threshold of realizing our edge and disseminate it from the new intitute. This means someone who is capable of both goal. In the past, I did not think our research HM: Meanwhile, it is of prime importance for having Visions and Working hard can achieve would immediately contribute to anything. I us to be determined and poised to improve a success. While most Japanese researchers kept working with the hope that our research our research environment by ourselves. are hard workers, I am afraid there are not so would provide a basis for other researches, so Researchers should be aware of their important many who can spell out the visions of their that would gradually accumulate to produce responsibilities and roles in sending a clear own research activities. They may find them- something useful one day in the future. I just message to the public, with firm confidence, selves being pressed at all times with daily wanted to be one of the major players in a that their researches are being conducted not experimental tasks, without having clear goals. game involving numerous people. But now, for the benefit of researchers themselves but It is difficult to ponder your own vision while we happen to have “received the ball” of iPS for the sake of the general public.. working a packed schedule. cell technology. In terms of rugby, we must HM: To help develop a pipeline of talented definitely score a try without human resources, we need to persuade the fail. So we are now standing government and the public that losing inter- on a totally different stage, national competitiveness in science research compared to the situation means a setback for our country. However, it three to four years ago. appears that Japanese researchers are often HM: CiRA will be graded up reluctant to communicate the applications and to an institute.(The English usefulness of their researches. Compared to name of the institute is the American counterparts, Japanese researchers same as the current one: the seem to be relatively weak at explaining the cause and significance of their research activities, and articulating their own visions. CiRA’s new research building that was completed in February 2010 SY: I totally agree with you. Japanese — external appearance

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A New Global COE Program: “Sustainability/Survivability Science for a Resilient Society Adaptable to Extreme Weather Conditions”

On June 15, 2009, “Sustainability/ to fulfill the requirements specified Survivability Science for a Resilient by each graduate school and submit a Society Adaptable to Extreme Weather dissertation. Conditions” was adopted as one of the Thus, the educational unit aims to Global COE (GCOE) Programs. This foster specialists with a generalist’s newly adopted program (GCOE-ARS perspecitive by encouraging students for short) focuses on how human and young researchers from various beings and human society could adapt backgrounds, conduct interdisciplinary to global transformations including and unique research, and develop climate change that brings about systematic knowledge and expertise. extreme weather and changes in water This objective corresponds to Kyoto cycle, population increase, urbaniza- University’s mission of “contributing tion, desertification, etc. It emphasizes to a harmonious coexistence within Program Leader: scientific explanation and prediction of human and ecological community on Professor Kaoru TAKARA weather and hydrological disasters as this planet.” well as social adaptation to such events. Field research will be conducted at a The Disaster Prevention Research number of domestic and overseas field hood and economy in these areas have Institute (DPRI) and the Research research and education sites in Niger, profound implications for survivability Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere Kenya (or Tanzania), India, Thailand, of humans on the Earth. At the same (RISH) have sought to establish a Indonesia, and Fiji. We set up two time, the changes in the region require new “educational unit” around these research themes in which students and adaptation strategies to cope with more themes in the fiscal year of 2010 young researchers can participate: difficult conditions expected in the in cooperation with five graduate Theme 1: Science-engineering inte- future. We will pursue sustainability/ schools (Graduate Schools of Science, grated research on extreme weather, survivability science and foster world- Engineering, Informatics, Agriculture water cycles and disaster prediction/ leading experts by developing practical and Global Environmental Studies). In observation research in these areas in the world. this educational unit, we plan to foster Theme 2: Humanities-sciences inte- Many talented individuals from all over research at the graduate school level by grated research on social adaptation to the world are welcome to participate in combining engineering and science, and abnormal weather and chronic meteoro- this program, to develop their skills and integrating social and natural sciences. logical hazards expertise, and become internationally Students who enter one of the above These themes will provide opportunities active professionals. graduate schools and want to take the for education and ORT (On Research GCOE-ARS program must enroll in this Training). See latest updates at: educational unit, attend interdisciplinary Located in humid climate and tectonic http://ars.gcoe.kyoto-u.ac.jp/ classes, and participate in an intern- zone, Asia has out-of-control overpopu- ship, field research, interdisciplinary lation and land development. Africa seminars, and international schools. has arid and semi-arid regions and also Graduate students who have studied tropical rainforests. Environmental two years or more in the GCOE-ARS conditions in these areas are more program and meet the specified severe than in other areas of the world. requirements will receive certificates Consequently, this makes the region of completion. In order to obtain their especially susceptible to extreme academic degrees, students will have weather. The state of the people’s liveli-

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Academic Cooperation and Exchange Memorandum signed with the ASEAN University Network (AUN) December 18, 2009

Kyoto University signed a general Ministry of Education Office, with Kyoto 9. Universiti Malaya, Malaysia memorandum for academic cooperation University represented by Executive 10. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia and exchange with the ASEAN University Vice-President Nobuyoshi Esaki, and 11. Institute of Economics, Myanmar Network (AUN), for the purpose of the AUN by Thai Ministry of Education, 12. University of Yangon, Myanmar pursuing activities in the field of sustain- Commission on Higher Education Deputy 13. University of the Philippines, the Philippines able energy and environmental studies. Secretary-General Piniti Ratanakul 14. De La Salle University, the Philippines The AUN currently has twenty-two (former executive director of the AUN). 15. Ateneo de Manila University, the Philippines member universities from ten countries The AUN representatives expressed their 16. National University of Singapore, Singapore including Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia hopes of establishing a global program in 17. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore and Malaysia among others. The signing the future, together with ASEAN countries 18. Burapha University, Thailand of this memorandum opens for Kyoto and also with international establishments 19. Chulalongkorn University, Thailand University, a wide spectrum of activi- such as UNESCO – ultimately pushing 20. Mahidol University, Thailand ties relating to cooperative research and forward international research and the 21. Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Viet Nam the exchange of academic information, development of human resources to a new 22. Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh researchers and students with the AUN level. City, Viet Nam member universities and their countries. ASEAN University Network (AUN): 22 Universities This is the first case in which a university 1. Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Brunei in Japan has concluded a memorandum Darussalam of understanding with a group of univer- 2. Royal University of Phnom Penh, Cambodia sities representing all of the ASEAN 3. Royal University of Law and Economics, countries. Based on the developments of Cambodia this meeting, Kyoto University hopes to 4. Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia build stronger cooperative relations with 5. Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia the ASEAN countries. 6. Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia The signing ceremony was carried 7. National University of Laos, Lao PDR Executive Vice-President Nobuyoshi Esaki speaking out at the Government of Thailand’s 8. Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia on behalf of Kyoto University

Foreign Language Publication of “MANGA Kyoto University”

In September 2008, Kyoto University This publication was achieved in a joint and awareness of our university among published “MANGA Kyoto University,” effort by students and staff of Kyoto overseas students. a booklet which explains the research University and Kyoto Seika University Along with the Japanese version, achievements of our university to junior (a university that promotes the arts and the foreign language versions were and senior high school students in an established the first Faculty of Manga also published by both universities. In easy-to-follow comic book format. in Japan). “MANGA Kyoto University” December 2009, we completed English, covers topics such as education, research, Chinese and Korean versions. These were medicine and student activities at Kyoto distributed to overseas partner institutions, University, as well as famous researchers overseas diplomatic missions and overseas and historical events. The book has campuses of Kyoto University. become very popular both inside and “MANGA Kyoto University” can also outside the campus. Originally written in be viewed on the following Website. Japanese, it has now been published in http://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/issue foreign languages in order to raise interest

7 Discovery of a small molecule that inhibits the “playmaker” of fat synthesis

Like fishing, when conducting They presumed that because of its Fatostatin was discovered to inhibit research, we sometimes feel as if we simple chemical structure, Fatostatin the activation process of SREBP by got a nibble on a hook. The research (referred to as 125B11 in those days) binding to a protein called SCAP, a on this chemical compound is one might bind to multiple proteins and act regulatory protein for SREBP. such case. in a complex way in cells. If such was SREBP is a transcription factor that the case, it would have been difficult activates many of the fat-synthesizing About 30,000 chemical com- to earn a doctor’s degree by studying genes, and it is the "playmaker" of fat pounds are stored in our laboratory the chemical compound. Despite this synthesis in human cells. If the activa- freezers. By adding these chemical hesitance, two female South Korean tion of SREBP is inhibited, the genes compounds one by one on a range of and Chinese postdoctoral fellows had required for fat synthesis would not be cultured cells, we have been able to enough guts to work on this simple activated, resulting in the suppression select chemical compounds that exert molecule and found success. of the synthesis of fat from sugar. In unique effects on cells. If we under- They first conducted a DNA micro- other words, Fatostatin is a chemical stand which proteins these chemical array-based analysis, where one can compound that terminates fat synthesis compounds bind to, and what they examine expression patterns of essen- at the outset. really do in cells, we would be able tially all the human genes. Usually, We injected Fatostatin into ob/ to gain insights into the secrets of life. when the effects of a biologically ob mice, obese mouse models that However, such research is not always active compound or a drug are inves- have strong appetite and get very successful. Even when the biologically tigated by this technique, the results fat. Administration of Fatostatin active compounds are discovered, it is are highly complicated. However, in suppressed obesity resulting from not always possible to grasp how they the case of Fatostatin, the microarray overeating in ob/ob mice, without are acting in cells. Fatostatin is one of results were extremely simple. Many affecting food intake. Hyperglycemia such compounds. of the altered genes were those regu- and fatty liver were also improved by We discovered Fatostatin in 2003 as lated by a transcription factor called Fatostatin administration. Fatostatin a chemical compound that inhibits the SREBP (sterol regulatory element- represents the first fully synthetic proliferation of cancer cells. However, binding protein). Other subsequent chemical compound that inhibits it was not clear how the compound experiments also supported the conclu- SREBP. Fatostatin and its analogs may was acting in cells, and it had been left sion that Fatostatin acts on the SREBP thus be useful in studying fat synthesis Forefronts of Research at Kyoto University untouched by researchers for a while. pathway. At that time, the South in cells. There is also a possibility that Graduate students also did not work on Korean postdoctoral fellow returned to a drug-like analog of Fatostatin could this molecule as a dissertation subject. South Kores to obtain an independent be used in the future as a therapeutic faculty position, drug for metabolic disorder, such as and Japanese post- diabetes and fatty liver. doctoral fellows N joined the Fatostatin When studying chemical com- project. As a result pounds, there is no telling where the N of the intensive research will lead. In fact, we had no experiments they intention of studying fat synthesis at S conducted in cell the beginning. When you plunge into biology, chemistry, an unanticipated area of research, the Fatostatin and biochemistry, contents of classes in your student

8 days, or those of lectures you lis- So, fellow researchers, tened to in youth, may suddenly you may also get a nibble become relevant. Regarding SREBP, on the hook which you when I was working as a postdoc- have baited for quite a toral fellow at Harvard University, long time ago. Watch out I had an opportunity to listen to the not to miss those chances Forefronts of Research at Kyoto University lecture by Professor Joseph Leonard when they emerge. Goldstein from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, who is the discoverer of SREBP and SCAP. The experience at that time has significantly contributed, after a long Courtesy: Motonari Uesugi time, to the present finding. Chemistry & Biology (28 August 2009) Control Fatostatin

Motonari UESUGI English in the United States,” Professor Uesugi University to take up the post of full professor ・ Born in 1967 laughs. at the Institute of Chemical Research. The long- ・ Field of specialization: Chemical Biology From the time he was a junior high school standing economic slump in Japan and fewer ・ Completed doctoral program, Graduate student, his ambition was to become a direct benefits of basic research to daily life in School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto researcher who could make a contribution recent days may have discouraged Japanese University to society. After he got Ph.D. from Kyoto students from pursuing science as their career. ・ Ph.D., Kyoto University University in 1995, he went to Harvard However, Professor Uesugi has a different view. ・ Professor, Research Institute for Integrated University as a post-doctoral fellow with “Despite such discouragement, Kyoto University Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University the goal of making both direct and indirect still have young talents with deep interests in ・URL http://www.scl.kyoto-u.ac.jp/~uesugi/ contribution to the human society. When science. They may be more interested in science indexieng.htm asked what he means by “indirect,” he replied than I was, and their future is bright.” Professor “Indirect contribution is like a ‘Samuel Sosa’s Uesugi has earned his students great trust The mottos “Don’t fear failure” homerun’. Sosa’s homeruns themselves due to the attention he gives to the young and and “Do what others do not do” are did not make direct contributions to society. upcoming students and his teaching experience traditions at Kyoto University. However, his homeruns may provide people in the United States and other countries. We have the best environment for with excitement, hope, and producing groundbreaking research. confidence to do something Professor Uesugi was the type of child difficult. I wanted to do who wondered why water boiled as he stood something like that by beside his mother while she was cooking. As disclosing the secrets of a junior and senior high school student he life and by making new was so good at physics his teacher told his concepts and ideas.” classmates to ask him questions if they did not After his postdoctoral understand something. Nevertheless, he did training at Harvard not like chemistry and English. In comparison University, Professor Uesugi to the logical reasoning of physics, he felt that was appointed assistant chemistry and English were subjects that just professor at Baylor College required rote memorization. However, he soon of Medicine, Houston, became interested in chemistry after he realized Texas. After achieving a that he could further the research of past tenure as an associate scholars. “It’s ironic that for 10 years I actually professor there, he ended up teaching chemistry to students in decided to return to Kyoto

9 ESSAY

In search of Ancient Texts and their Proper Interpretations

All kinds of knowledge systems Indian here too, reading across these traditions is people developed till the advent of modern helpful. education in India are expressed in Sanskrit As Buddhist texts narrate, the historical and related languages. These knowledge Buddha used to tell his disciples that they systems now are hardly developing further, should not accept his teaching just because but literary activities in classical languages of his authority; they should rather experiment of India, mainly Sanskrit, are still going on. with everything they are told and have a first- Classical Indological Studies cover all such hand knowledge. I feel that this applies to any traditional knowledge systems and all types of discourse, any interpretation. I try to follow this ancient or modern literary activities in the clas- advice whenever I deal with an important text. I Diwakar ACHARYA ・ Born in 1969 sical languages of India. On the other hand, feel that combining trained skills and innova- ・ Field of specialization : Sanskrit Studies, History of there are thousands of manuscripts of unpub- tive imagination enables a scholar to contribute Indian religions and philosophies lished Indic texts kept in different archives. in a better way to the field of his research. ・ Completed master’s course at Sampurnananda University This makes the field very broad, and the direc- Kyoto is strong in the studies of Indian, ・ Ph.D., University of Hamburg tion of a department of Indological Studies particularly Buddhist, philosophies, and since ・ Visiting Lecturer, Department of Indological Studies, depends much on the animated interests of its my arrival here I have constantly benefited Faculty of Letters of Kyoto University faculties and researchers. from this situation, inside and outside Kyoto Although in the past I wanted to escape the strict In order to develop a feeling for Sanskrit, I University. Kyoto is unique; one example is instructions of my father, I am now extremely grateful read literary works, religious and philosophical the Philosopher’s Path, named after a famous to have researched and been taught about the deep texts, and historical documents. Being a written Japanese philosopher, Kitaro Nishida. After and wide world of Sanskrit. From April 2006, Dr. Acharya has taught grammar in language, there is no alternative to reading as coming to Kyoto, I have been occasionally basic Sanskrit class and conducted individual seminars many texts of different genres as possible. It is reading the works of him and other Japanese on the history and philosophy of Sanskrit, religious mostly advantageous: knowledge of one genre philosophers of the Kyoto School (but only in rituals and festivals as a foreign instructor at the Faculty helps me to understand another. translation), and also some of the 20th century of Letters of Kyoto University. Even though Sanskrit is not used in conversation, Vedic Sanskrit and other ancient Since my college days in late 80s, I am con- western philosophers like Popper and Derrida. languages can be read with the knowledge of Sanskrit stantly involved in handling manuscripts and Because of my traditional schooling in Vedic since the vocabulary and grammar are fixed. It covers identifying unpublished works. Some of them and other subsequent religious traditions, I find areas such as literature, philosophy, religion and science. Dr. Acharya’s research is also wide ranging. His areas of I have already published, and on some others I human consciousness forming the true core of specialty include codicology and epigraphy. am currently working. They are mainly literary religion. So, I enjoy reading these modern phi- With the linguistic and educational reforms and religious texts. I am also interested in the losophers on religion, truth, and human nature. implemented in Nepal since the 1950’s, Sanskrit has early history of Indian religious traditions, and In a sense I am reading Nishida’s conscious- been used on many occasions to create new words in order to standardize the national language. In fact, ness from Hindu perspective and Popper’s 70% of the Nepalese vocabulary is currently directly theory of falsification from Upanis﹒adic point of borrowed or derived from Sanskrit, although highly view. In brief, I am trying to look at the core of Sanskritised vocabulary is not used in daily conversation. Consequently, education of Sanskrit is limited to a few religion from all angles and various perspec- traditional Brahmin families. tives. In addition to his regular schooling, Dr. Acharya also received a very strict education in Sanskrit from the age of 7. This was provided by his father who was a teacher and pundit that adhered to the strict principles of Sanskrit teachings. He used to rebel against such methods after 13th century entering the university. He lived in a hostel, went to movie theaters, ate meat and lived a bohemian lifestyle. However, after one year, he met a mentor who introduced him to the interesting aspects of Sanskrit as an academic subject. With this, he concentrated on his research and is now deeply grateful to what his father did to him. After arriving in Kyoto, Dr. Acharya was impressed with the similarity of the mountains surrounding the city and the many Buddhist temples with those of his hometown, Katmandu. He is very comfortable researching his areas of interest without restrictions at Kyoto University and wishes to continue his studies well into the future. 14th century 17th century

10 My dream is to contribute to the efforts to create an egalitarian world order. Multitudes of actions at various levels are required in order to realize this dream.

From October 2008, Mr. Gautam has been a human rights or freedom of press or rule of law graduate student at the Graduate School of Asian were limited in their scope and reach, unable to and African Studies (ASAFAS). Since 1990, Mr engage people at large. Political parties were Gautam’s home country, Nepal, has experienced extremely unpopular as conducts for democracy a series of political and social changes due movements. to armed struggle, coup d’etat and on-going Realizing this, in 2005, we initiated a group movements for democratic transformation. As called Citizen’s Movement for Democracy researcher and activist Mr. Gautam contributed and Peace (CMDP) calling for an end to left to the democratization of Nepali society. He and right extremism but envisioning radical Bhaskar GAUTAM Born in 1976 is currently pursuing research on political transformation. CMDP intervention was crucial ・・Currently graduate student at the Graduate movements and change in Nepal. Recently he in bringing people, parliamentary parties, and School of Asian and African Area Studies also participated in the field schools in Nepal the Maoist together that ultimately led to the (ASAFAS), Kyoto University and Cameroon that ASAFAS organized with an People’s Power in 2006 and the subsequent aim to provide better exposure for its students. historic changes thereafter.

■Mr. Gautam, please tell us about your life ■When did you meet Associate Professor an attraction. Of course, receiving a scholarship before you became a graduate student. Tatsuro Fujikura? was another major reason. I moved to Kathmandu after I finished I met him in 1999. But it was the Kamaiya junior high school. While in university I was (bonded labor) movement in 2000 that brought ■How do you find research environment in discontented with the quality of education so I us close to each other for the first time. He Kyoto University? gave up my studies and start working. In 1998, was researching bonded labor movements for All students at the ASAFAS are provided with I met Pratyoush Onta, who led me to the field of emancipation and I was among the organizers an environment to research and study freely. research at the Martin Chautari. First, I assisted of this movement in Kathmandu. Kamaiya is No doubt the atmosphere is very impressive. him in his work on the chronicle of history a form of labor where a poor man and/or his However, as my Japanese language ability writing in Nepal. Later, I concentrated on my family are forced to work for the same landlord is very bad, I cannot get the best out of the own work on media and on contemporary socio- in order to pay their debts. In 2003, I asked university and sometime feel limited. political currents in Nepal. Beside research, I him to contribute a chapter for a volume that was co-organizer of public discussion series I co-edited, titled as “Debates on Poverty in ■Kyoto University is trying to create an at Martin Chautari on a wide range of issues. Nepal.” Since then we are in constant touch. environment where students without One could say those were ventures to deepen Japanese language abilities can make democracy and promote a culture of public ■Why did you later decide to come to Japan? research and attend classes. debates in Nepal. In 2004, I went back to university to give This is good news, and there is an urgent way to my quest for theoretical and critical need for this. Kyoto University, perhaps, is in ■Was the democracy movement very active knowledge, knowing all of which are not the best position to make it happen. I wish for at that time? available in Nepal. I shared this plan with its success and believe that it will be major In 1996, insurgency broke out as the Maoist Professor Fujikura in 2005 and he suggested undertaking to attract more overseas students fraction of the Communist Party of Nepal I consider doing my graduate studies in Kyoto and make the learning environment more diverse began armed struggle calling for establishment University. Then I was deeply occupied with the and dynamic. of communist order and a People’s Republic. political movements and everything around and Parliamentary parties ridiculed this undertaking had little interest to move anywhere. After 2006 I ■What are your future goals or dreams? in the beginning and tired to resolve it with force. realized that, despite Nepal experienced series of This is difficult question to answer. But as The monarchy watched this move cunningly, at changes, some historic, we achieved very little I move on, I would like to learn more about times impeaching political power that ultimately given the kind of political opportunity that was political and social theories so that this will resulted in the coup d’etat in 2005. What Nepal available for radical transformation. It was after help my ventures in future. However, freedom experienced until then was a tri-party struggle. this, that I said to myself: a few years of study and quality of life are fundamental desires of By then Nepal had already experienced a series abroad is a good idea. Japan, then became a people. I wish to devote my life to the pursuit of of crises from state of emergency to massive first choice because of Professor Fujikura. He humanity in every possible sense. My dream is killings to constant mockery of parliamentary is among the very few best scholars on Nepal. to contribute constructively to the creation of an culture from actors within and outside. As he shares better understanding on Nepal I egalitarian world order. This grandiose dream is This was also the time where various social thought it would be a wonderful opportunity possible only when multitudes of actions take movements made their presence felt. But to work with him. Also the open educational place at local and regional level, but thinking dissents from social groups or calls ensure environment available at Kyoto University was globally.

11 The 1st Vietnam-Japan University Presidents’ Conference September 17–18, 2009

The 1st Vietnam-Japan University by over 100 participants from Japan, Japanese participants for the next confer- Presidents’ Conference was held by including delegates from fifty-three ence. the Vietnamese Ministry of Education universities, as well as delegates from The conference provided a significant and Training from September 17 to 18, the Japanese Ministry of Education, opportunity for the Kyoto University 2009 at the Horizon Hotel in Hanoi Culture, Sports, Science and Technology delegates to meet and improve rela- City, Vietnam. The event was attended (MEXT) and the Japan Association of tions with the Vietnamese Ministry by a delegation from Kyoto University National Universities. An equivalent of Education and Training and many including Executive Vice-President number of Vietnamese delegates also Vietnamese universities, including Hanoi Shuzo Nishimura, Vice-President Junichi attended the event, including H. E. Dr. University of Technology, which hosted Mori, director of Kyoto University’s Nguyen Thien Nhan, deputy prime the event. It was also an ideal oppor- Organization for the Promotion of minister and minister of education and tunity to publicize Kyoto University’s International Relations, and Professor training of Vietnam and representatives new range of programs for international Koichiro Oshima, dean of the Graduate from seventy-one Vietnamese universi- students: Kyoto University Programs School of Engineering. ties and colleges. for Future International Leaders (K.U. Prior to the conference, on the evening The conference’s keynote speech PROFILE). of September 16, a reception, hosted was followed by lively discussions by Mr. Mitsuo Sakaba, the Japanese on the topic of higher education. At Ambassador to Vietnam, was held for the closing of the successful event, the Japanese participants. The recep- Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien tion provided an excellent opportunity Nhan suggested that a second confer- for friendly discussions about academic ence be held in either Japan or Vietnam exchange between Vietnam and Japan. in two years time. It was decided that The conference itself was attended Kyoto University would coordinate the

President Hiroshi Matsumoto attends the 6th China-Japan University Presidents’ Forum October 15–16, 2009

Kyoto University president, Dr. Hiroshi Ms. Tomoka Satomi, vice-director of the and Peking University, and consisted of Matsumoto and Executive Vice-President Office of the President, and Mr. Masao five sessions, during which the delegates Shuzo Nishimura attended the 6th China- Tsukamoto, Director of the International passionately discussed ideas, plans and Japan University Presidents’ Forum at Affairs Department. concrete programs relating to higher Nankai University in Tianjin on October The China-Japan University Presidents’ education in China and Japan, as well as 15 to 16, 2009. The Kyoto University Forum is held biennially by the Ministry the role and responsibility of universities. delegation also included Professor of Education, Culture, Sports, Science After the opening session, the second Liyou Han of the International Center, and Technology of Japan (MEXT) and session, “National Strategies and the Ministry of Education of the People’s University Development,” focused mainly Republic of China. On this occasion the on the Chinese Ministry of Education’s forum was attended by approximately 100 Project 211 and Project 985 initiatives, delegates including university presidents and MEXT’s COE and Global COE and the vice-minister of MEXT. Programs. The forum was co-chaired by the The third session “Theory and presidents of the University of Tokyo Practice in the Internationalization of

12 Creative Human Resources Training,” Ritsumeikan University. was co-chaired by President Matsumoto President Matsumoto expressed and President Yang Yuliang of Fudan his willingness to host the University, and explored the possibilities forum, as did Chancellor for joint endeavors by China and Japan Kiyofumi Kawaguchi of to cultivate human resources. The fourth Ritsumeikan University. session was a discussion session on the President Matsumoto empha- same topic, and included a discussion sized the significance of about Kyoto University’s approach to holding the event in Kyoto, a education and research. city with long-standing historical, cultural to engage in active discussions with the The fifth session was a steering confer- and academic connections with China. delegates from the participating Chinese ence for the forum, during which it was The forum provided an excellent universities, who showed great interest decided that next year’s forum would opportunity for President Matsumoto in developing their relations with Kyoto be co-hosted by Kyoto University and and Executive Vice-President Nishimura University.

Zhejiang University holds “Kyoto University Days” October 30–31, 2009

Zhejiang University held two “Kyoto city of Hangzhou, in which Zhejiang about enrollment. The students of University Days” on October 30 to 31, University is located. The recital Zhejiang University responded enthusi- 2009. The purpose of the two-day event received a warm round of applause. astically throughout the two days of the was to introduce Kyoto University to the In the evening, the six participating event, with many students consulting students of Zhejiang University, facili- graduate schools conducted individual the Kyoto University representatives for tate academic exchange and provide sessions introducing their research activ- details about government sponsorship information about study abroad oppor- ities and holding mock classes. After the and scholarship applications. tunities. This is the first time that such graduate school sessions, a discussion On the evening of the second day, an event has been held. The following session was held by Vice-President Chu an inaugural meeting of the Kyoto six Kyoto University graduate schools Jian and Vice-President Zheng Qiang University Alumni Association of China participated in the event: the Graduate of Zhejiang University. The partici- was held. Approximately 100 people School of Management, the Graduate pants actively discussed the promotion participated in the relaxed and friendly School of Medicine, the Graduate of student exchange between Kyoto gathering. The participants exchanged School of Engineering, the Graduate University and Zhejiang University, their latest news and shared their memo- School of Agriculture, the Graduate as well as the Japanese government’s ries of Kyoto University, as well as their School of Informatics and the Graduate Global 30 Project for Establishing Core thoughts about the Kyoto University of School of Global Environmental Universities for Internationalization today, expressing their desire to further Studies. (G30 Project). contribute to the university’s interna- The first day’s proceedings Continuing on from the introductory tional exchange undertakings. commenced with a welcome speech by presentations of the previous the president of Zhejiang University, day, the second day of the event Professor Yang Wei. President Wei’s began with a presentation by speech was followed by presentations Kyoto University International by Executive Vice-President Shuzo Center program officer, Professor Nishimura, Vice-President Junichi Mori Liyou Han. Professor Han gave and Professor Liyou Han of Kyoto an overall description of Kyoto University. Executive Vice-President University, as well as explana- Nishimura greeted the attendees by tions of the university’s various reciting a Chinese poem about the departments and information

13 For inquiries regarding Raku-Yu, contact: Public Relations Division KYOTO UNIVERSITY Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, URL http://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/issue/rakuyu/ E-mail [email protected] Kyoto 606-8501, Japan PDF files of Raku-Yu may be downloaded from the above URL TEL +81 75 753 2072 FAX +81 75 753 2094 伏見稲荷大社 Fushimi Inari Shrine ― A religious space filled with the prayers of the people Fushimi Inari Shrine is located between Kyoto University’s Yoshida campus and Uji campus, approximately 2.5 km south east of JR Kyoto station. Constructed in the Nara Era (710-794), it boasts a long history spanning over 1300 years. Fushimi Inari Shrine is the head shrine of the approximately 30,000 shrines in Japan and about 2,800,000 people visit the shrine during the first 3 days of every New Year period. The word “Inari” is derived from the expression “bumper harvest”. As a result, Inari shrines were originally places where people prayed for a good harvest. However, now these shrines have become well known for providing good profits for companies and family safety. The main characteristic of Fushimi Inari Shrine is the large amount of fox statues that can be found throughout the shrine grounds. Regular temples and shrines have Komainu statues (animals which cannot be determined whether they are lions or dogs) placed on the left and right hand side of the gates and main shrines. However, in the case of Inari shrines, the statues are clearly those of foxes. They are revered as servants of the Inari god. The mountains behind the main shrine also form part of the shrine’s spiritual area. The path that surrounds these mountains is lined with Torii (Shinto gates) which have been donated by people and companies praying for prosperity. This is known as the “Senbon Torii” (there are actually thousands of these Shinto gates) and it is a characteristic that cannot be found at any other Inari shrine. In the mountains themselves, there are more than 10 thousand Otsuka (stone plates engraved another name of Inari god). Many people kneel in front of these stones to pray in an atmosphere filled with a religious spirituality that has continued since antiquity.

Ema (wooden planks which are used to write down their wishes) may also come in the shape of a fox.

The main shrine was reconstructed in 1499 after it was lost in a fire caused during a civil war. This huge elegant shrine has been designated as an important national cultural treasure.

Senbon Torii: Names of donating people and companies are written on each Torii.

This tower gate was created in 1589 by the then Fox statue: An ear of rice in the mouth powerful Hideyoshi Toyotomi in order to pray for of a fox is a sign of a good harvest. his mother to recover from illness. This is the largest There are some fox with scrolls or keys shrine tower gate in Japan. in their mouth.