Ryukoku University began in 1639 as a Buddhist seminary (boarding school, or “Gakuryo”) that was established in the precinct of Nishi-Hongwanji Temple. The institution has gone through many reforms through the ages and had previously gone through the name changes Gakurin、Daikyoko、and Daigakurin, and is in its 376th year. From the time of its establishment, Ryukoku University has based its education on the life of Shinran Shonin as it continues, develops, and furthers education and research using his way of living as its guide. The principle of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism is the school motto, pursuing the development of students who “seek, live, and express the truth.” Cultivated within this long history is the tradition of respect for progress, a diverse individuality unique to the university, and intellectualism cultivated through academic research that we are so proud of.