January 10, 2009 - September 6, 2009
Commemorative exhibition (multiple venues)
- Fukuzawa Yukichi: Living the Future
<Co-hosted by Keio University and Fuji Sankei Group>
An exhibition focusing on the wide-ranging activities of Fukuzawa Yukichi, who contributed to the modernization of Japan, and the history of Keio University will be held at three venues around the country. The exhibition will feature the original draft of Gakumon no Susume ("An Encouragement of Learning") penned by Fukuzawa himself, as well as letters written to important political figures of the day, and other precious historical and art materials. The Akikusa Urn, a national treasure owned by Keio University, and artworks assembled by followers of Fukuzawa will also be on display.
Tokyo National Museum / Hyokeikan Gallery: January 10 - March 8, 2009
<Co-hosted by Tokyo National Museum>
Fukuoka Art Museum: May 2 - June 14, 2009
<Co-hosted by Fukuoka Art Museum>
Osaka Municipal Museum of Art: August 4 - September 6, 2009
<Co-hosted by Osaka Municipal Museum of Art>
Wednesday July 22, 2009
Keio University has a proud history as Japan’s first modern comprehensive institution of higher learning, dating back to 1858 when it was founded by Yukichi Fukuzawa, regarded as the father of modern Japanese society. 2008 marked the 150th anniversary of Keio University and as part of “Keio University’s 150th Anniversary Commemorative Project,” Keio University and the British Library, will be co-hosting a symposium in London. London is a very important part of Keio University’s history as it is the place where Fukuzawa Yukichi witnessed various aspects of modernisation in 1862. This symposium has also been made possible through the assistance of the Japan Foundation in London.
At this symposium, Professor Alan Macfarlane of King’s College, Cambridge, will give a special lecture entitled “Fukuzawa Yukichi and the Making of the Modern World”.
