Former Shizutani School: Japan's First Public School

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Discover Japan's first public school, a historic Edo-era landmark in Bizen, Okayama, featuring stunning architecture and serene gardens.

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Former Shizutani School

The Former Shizutani School, founded in 1670, stands as Japan's oldest public school for commoners. Located in Bizen, Okayama, this historical landmark features well-preserved Edo period architecture, including a National Treasure-designated lecture hall, offering a glimpse into the nation's early education system.

A brief summary to Former Shizutani School

784 Shizutani, Bizen, Shizutani, Okayama, 705-0036, JP
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit on weekdays for a less crowded experience.
Check for special events or exhibitions to enhance your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the expansive grounds.
Consider joining a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the school's history.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From JR Yoshinaga Station or JR Bizen-Katakami Station, take a city bus to the Shizutani School bus stop. The ride is approximately 12-15 minutes. From the bus stop, the school is a short walk away. Bus fares are typically around ¥200-¥300.
Taxi

Taxis are available from both JR Yoshinaga Station and JR Bizen-Katakami Station. The taxi ride to Former Shizutani School takes about 10 minutes from Yoshinaga Station and 13 minutes from Bizen-Katakami Station. Expect to pay around ¥1,500-¥2,000 for the taxi fare.
Driving

If driving, take the Sanyo Expressway and exit at Wake IC or Bizen IC. From Wake IC, it's about a 5-minute drive; from Bizen IC, it's about 15 minutes. Follow the signs to Former Shizutani School. Parking is available with space for 500 cars. Parking fee is around ¥300-¥500 per day.

Discover more about Former Shizutani School

Nestled in a serene valley in Bizen, Okayama, the Former Shizutani School (旧閑谷学校) marks the origin of public education in Japan. Established in 1670 by Ikeda Mitsumasa, the lord of Okayama Domain, it broke the mold by offering education to common citizens, not just the samurai class. This pioneering institution aimed to cultivate capable leaders and promote public morality through education.The school's architecture showcases refined techniques of the Edo period. The Lecture Hall (講堂), completed in 1701, is a designated National Treasure, featuring a distinctive gabled roof with Bizen tiles. Inside, the spacious hall is supported by ten zelkova pillars and is still used for traditional Confucian studies. Other notable structures include the Sacred Hall (聖廟), which enshrines a golden statue of Confucius, and a history museum housed in a building dating back to 1905.The grounds also feature a unique stone wall surrounding the school and two grand pistache trees grown from seeds from Qufu, China. Visitors can explore the classrooms, gardens, and various gates, each reflecting the school's hierarchical structure. The Former Shizutani School provides a tranquil atmosphere, offering a journey through time and a chance to appreciate Japan's commitment to education and cultural heritage.