10-minute walk from Ashikaga Station on the JR Ryomo Line
15-minute walk from Ashikaga City Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
15-minute drive from Ashikaga Interchange on the Kita-Kantou Expressway Show route
Op.Hours
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (April - September)
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (October - March)
Cld.Days
Generally the third Wednesday of the month, Year-end and New Year holidays (December 29th - 31st)
Fee
General Admission: ¥480
High School Students: ¥240
Elementary & Junior High School Students (outside the city): ¥120
Groups (20 or more people): 20% discount on the above prices
Preschool Children: Free
Disabled individuals: Free (one accompanying person also free)
Ashikaga School, a National Historic Site located in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, is renowned as Japan's oldest school. While its founding date is debated, its revival during the Kamakura period is historically certain. During the Muromachi period, it flourished with 3,000 students, its prominence noted even by the Jesuit missionary Francis Xavier in 1549, who described it as "the largest and most famous university in Kanto." Ashikaga School persevered through turbulent times, consistently contributing to human resource development. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved school buildings and gardens. Immerse yourself in a serene atmosphere redolent with history. This site is perfect for history buffs and anyone interested in the history of Japanese education. Ashikaga School offers a unique opportunity to tangibly experience history learned from textbooks and connect with Japanese history and culture. Discover the origins of Japanese education in the tranquil atmosphere of Ashikaga School.