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Unique Features of Tenri University

A Humanistic Education

Founded in 1925, Tenri University now boasts over 30,000 alumni who have benefited from its educational goals of enhancing each student’s potential, of fostering his or her global awareness, and of instilling in each individual the desire to contribute to the overall improvement of the human condition. Based on the humanistic teachings of the Tenrikyo religion, promoting the world of the “Joyous Life” for all humankind, the University’s long history of applying this educational philosophy, in a manner suited to the needs of each generation, is the foundation of its proud tradition.

Enhancing Individual Skills through Small Classes

To fulfill its objective of developing each student’s potential, the University maintains small classes throughout the undergraduate years of study. In addition, faculty advisors work closely with their students on a person-to-person basis. Further, all faculty members of every department or course of study strive to build strong ties with students from their freshman through their senior years.

International Exchange for a Better World

In order to develop personnel who will contribute to the international community, Tenri University has engaged in international exchanges since its establishment, actively supporting overseas language and cultural training, study abroad programs, and international sports events. Sister school relationships are maintained with over 30 universities in many countries; exchange programs with these institutions include collaboration in education and research, exchanges of students and faculty, and goodwill sports tournaments. Tenri University also promotes a variety of volunteer social programs abroad.

A Proud Tradition of “Spirit” and “Technique” in Sports

Shozen Nakayama, former leader of the Tenrikyo religion and University founder, made significant contributions to the promotion of sports, and to the advancement of international goodwill and exchange through sports. It was his belief that “sports cultivate the mind and body, providing the means to savor the teachings of Tenrikyo.” He supported the movement to introduce judo as an official Olympic event in the 1964 Olympic Games held in Tokyo. The teachings of Tenrikyo have no doubt promoted the development of “spirit” and “technique” in the Tenri Judo program. This same spirit has also been inherited by a wide variety of other sports at Tenri.