#Japan #Kyoto #ZEN University #Kyoto Seika University #Manga Research

Kyoto Seika University and Zen University Academic Exchange

In a significant development for the cultural landscape of Japan, Kyoto Seika University’s International Manga Research Center (IMRC) and the Zen University's Content Industry History Archive Research Center (HARC) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering comprehensive exchanges in the fields of manga, anime, and gaming research and archiving. The collaboration between these two esteemed institutions marks an exciting venture towards preserving Japan's rich cultural heritage in content creation.

A Shared Vision for Cultural Preservation

Japan's historical documents and cultural resources related to manga and the broader content industry are recognized for their global significance; however, challenges concerning their preservation and continuation to future generations remain pressing issues. This agreement is designed to reinforce cooperative ties between the two institutions by facilitating the exchange of information related to cultural resources, conducting joint research, and promoting researcher exchanges. By combining the strengths of the IMRC, recognized as a leading manga research hub, and HARC, which focuses on oral history and testimonies in the industrial history domain, both organizations aim to share knowledge and bolster the foundational framework of content research while exploring new possibilities for the future.

Upcoming Event Celebrating the Partnership

To commemorate the signing of the MOU, an event titled "IMRC of 'Mono' x HARC of 'Hito' - Pioneering the Future of Manga Archives and Their Management" will take place on July 25, 2026, at the Kyoto International Manga Museum. The event will center on discussions regarding the preservation and utilization of manga culture, featuring a keynote speech followed by a panel discussion delving into efforts to connect the charm of manga with future knowledge.

The schedule is as follows:

• - Date: July 25, 2026, Saturday
• - Time: 11:00 AM - 12:45 PM (doors open at 10:30 AM)
• - Location: 1F Multi-Purpose Hall, Kyoto International Manga Museum, 604-0846 Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto.
• - Admission: Free (a separate entry fee for the Kyoto International Manga Museum is required)
• - Note: Students from Kyoto Seika University and Zen University can enter free of charge with a student ID.
• - Capacity: 100 participants (advance reservation needed, first-come-first-served basis).

Distinguished Speakers

The keynote speeches and discussions will feature prominent figures in the manga industry:

• - Keynote Address 1: "Retaining Voices, Connecting Cultures - The Challenges of ZEN University’s Content Industry History Archive Research Center" presented by Hirokazu Hosoi, Director of HARC.
• - Keynote Address 2: "Exploring Manga Education through Library Information Science" by Mio Sasaki, Director of IMRC and Associate Professor at Kyoto Seika University.
• - Panel Discussion: Featuring renowned manga artist Mitsuru Sugaya (Chairman of the Japan Manga Association and former faculty member of Kyoto Seika University), along with Kazuma Yoshimura (Chairman of Kyoto Seika University), Mio Sasaki (Director of IMRC), Hirokazu Hosoi (Director of HARC), and Haruko Koide (Associate Professor at Zen University).

About Kyoto Seika University

Kyoto Seika University, located in Sakyo-ku, is dedicated to fostering individuals capable of changing the world through expression. Offering five distinctive faculties—Liberal Arts, Media Expression, Arts, Design, and Manga—as well as graduate education, the university aims to cultivate contributions to society through various forms of expression. Notably, it plans to introduce its first distance learning program, the Faculty of Creative Information Studies, by 2028.

About the International Manga Research Center

Established in 2006, the International Manga Research Center at Kyoto Seika University represents a culmination of over 30 years of pioneering education and research in manga studies. By leveraging its extensive networks and accomplishments, it plays a vital role in the Kyoto International Manga Museum and contributes to the global discussion on manga and its related fields through diverse research endeavors.

For more information about Kyoto Seika University, you can visit their official website here.

Discover the Kyoto International Manga Museum

The Kyoto International Manga Museum is Japan’s first comprehensive facility dedicated to the preservation and display of manga materials and the study of manga culture. Established in collaboration with Kyoto Seika University in 2006, the museum collects over 300,000 items ranging from historical ukiyo-e to contemporary works, serving as a hub for researchers and visitors interested in the depths of manga culture. For more insights, visit their website here.