This video presents a walking exploration from Ueno, starting at Shinobazu Pond, and ventures through the historic campus of The University of Tokyo (Tokyo Daigaku, or Todai). The journey traces layers of history from the Edo period, through the Meiji Restoration and the modernization of Japan, all the way to Showa era structures and legacies that are scattered across the grounds. This section of the broader series specifically focuses on the Hongo area of Bunkyo Ward and the culturally significant sites within the university campus.

The University of Tokyo’s Hongo campus is renowned for its historic architecture and key landmarks. Sites such as Yasuda Auditorium (安田講堂), a symbol of academic resistance and student protest in modern Japanese history, and the famous Akamon (Red Gate/赤門), built in 1827 and designated as an Important Cultural Property, are highlighted. The tranquil Sanshiro Pond (三四郎池) captures the campus’s enduring beauty and has been featured in literary and cinematic works. As you follow the walk, you not only traverse spaces where Japan’s top scholars have studied, but also encounter structures and relics that tell the story of Tokyo’s evolution from Edo Castle’s outskirts to a modern metropolis.

Hongo itself, now a part of Bunkyo Ward, developed historically as a center for learning, intellectual activity, and cultural heritage. Beyond the university, the area is known for its atmospheric old streets and literary history, while Ueno and its surrounding parks are famed for museums, temples, and seasonal events. Visitors will also find a wealth of additional historical spots such as Ueno Park (上野公園) and the nearby Ueno Station, enhancing the narrative of the walking series.

For travelers and history enthusiasts, this detailed walk provides an immersive view into some of Tokyo’s most storied academic and historical sites. The locations visited are easily accessible via public transport, with Ueno and Hongo both serving as convenient gateways to the city’s blend of tradition and modernity.