Welcome to the 28th Special Manuscript Exhibition at Rissho University!
Rissho University, located in Shinagawa, Tokyo, is hosting its
28th Special Manuscript Exhibition titled
"Welcome to the Open Campus!" The exhibition will take place from August 15 to August 28, 2026, in the library showcase corner on the first floor of the 11th building on the Shinagawa campus. This annual event coincides with the summer Open Campus, allowing high school students and prospective applicants to encounter historically significant texts and rare books held by the university.
The main aim of this year’s exhibition is to provide an immersive experience showcasing the cultural heritage and precious materials in Rissho University’s collection. Participants will have the unique opportunity to feel the weight of history by viewing original manuscripts up close, enriching their understanding of academic pursuits.
Exhibition Highlights: Encounter the Original Texts
One of the exhibition's most noteworthy attractions is the historic medical text, "The Anatomy Book"
, a key work in Japan's medical and translation history. This original manuscript is something many students may be familiar with from their history textbooks. Seeing this significant document in person will surely enhance its impact and significance.
In addition to "The Anatomy Book"
, the exhibition will display several other important texts, including "Anatomische Tabellen"
(commonly referred to in Japan as "Tafel Anatomia") and visuals depicting Perry's arrival in Japan from the "Illustration of the American Envoy Perry's Visit"
. These documents are renowned for their historical and academic value. Notably, the Dutch translation of "Anatomische Tabellen"
served as a source for "The Anatomy Book"
's translation, tying the two works together within the realm of medical literature.
Insights from the Organizers
The Rissho University Academic Information Division expressed the passion behind organizing this exhibition: "Each year, we aim to hold this special manuscript exhibition during the Open Campus period to introduce precious materials like
‘The Anatomy Book’ to high school students. We hope that by experiencing these original texts, attendees will feel a closer connection to Rissho University and the value of rare books and manuscripts. We sincerely wish that visitors can appreciate the heavy historical significance and vitality these originals embody, enriching their learning experience during Open Campus.”
Event Details
- - Event Name: Welcome to the Open Campus! The 28th Special Manuscript Exhibition
- - Dates: August 15 (Saturday) - August 28 (Friday), 2026
- - Location: Library exhibition corner, 1st floor, Building 11, Rissho University, 4-2-16 Ohsaki, Shinagawa, Tokyo
- - Target Audience: Open Campus visitors (high school students, prospective applicants, and parents), current students, and the general public
- - Admission Fee: Free
Featured Exhibits:
"The Anatomy Book"
(5 volumes) - "Anatomische Tabellen"
(1 volume) - "Illustration of the American Envoy Perry's Visit"
(1 piece) - "Nagasaki Dutch Merchant Shop Illustration"
(reproduction, 1 piece) - "Gedenkwaerdige gesantschappen..."
(1 volume) - "Lotus Sutra"
(miniature copper plate edition) - "The Tale of Yamato"
(2 volumes) - "Chirimenkon Calendar"* (1896-1961) and many more!
This exhibition offers a fantastic opportunity to delve into the academic and cultural heritage that Rissho University proudly maintains, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in historical texts and cultural artifacts.