#Japan #Tokyo #World War II #Sophia University #Sophia Archives

Unveiling the Past: Sophia University’s 80th Anniversary Exhibition

In the summer of 2025, Sophia University will host a significant exhibition to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Titled "Memories of Sophia Students Before, During, and After the War - Connecting Memories to the Future", the exhibition seeks to provide a deeper understanding of a time marked by turbulence and transition. It highlights the experiences of students who lived through these challenging periods, showcasing their documented thoughts and histories, which are increasingly valuable as firsthand testimonies of that era fade with the passage of time.

As the number of war survivors dwindles, it becomes increasingly difficult for younger generations to conceive of such historical events as tangible realities. This exhibition aims to fill that gap by using materials housed in the Sophia University Sophia Archives. Among the exhibits, attendees will find a collection of photographs from the wartime era alongside significant documents such as the Imperial Rescript on Education and graduation speeches, all of which illuminate the realities faced by the students of that time.

In addition to these historical documents, the exhibition will display unique items gifted by alumni, including a flag adorned with well wishes and a thousand stitches, letters from students who were deployed to war, and mementos from those who experienced detainment. Each item serves as a poignant reminder of the era, inviting visitors to reflect on the importance of freedom, education, and the value of peace.

Exhibition Details

• - Event Name: 80th Anniversary Exhibition “Memories of Sophia Students Before, During, and After the War - Connecting Memories to the Future”
• - Dates: July 11, 2025 (Friday) to September 15, 2025 (Monday, public holiday)
• - Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Note: Closed on August 31, Sunday)
• - Location: First-floor exhibition space, Central Library, Sophia University Yotsuya Campus
• - Number of Exhibits: 22 items (tentative)
• - Admission: Free, no prior registration required
• - For More Information: Visit official exhibition webpage

The exhibition is organized by Sophia University’s Sophia Archives, and for any inquiries, the public can reach out via email at exhibition_archives@ml.sophia.ac.jp or call at 03-3238-3294 during weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM.

As we engage with these materials, we not only honor the past but are also encouraged to reflect on the lessons learned, advocating for understanding, education, and the enduring legacy of peace. This exhibition stands as a crucial reminder of our shared history, urging visitors to see these memories as vital connections to our collective future.