The History of Tekijuku: From Kawaramachi to Kitahama
Tekijuku was founded in 1838 in Kawaramachi 3-chome, Chuo Ward, Osaka. In 1845, it moved to its present location in Kitahama 3-chome.
At Tekijuku, Ogata Koan taught Western learning, medicine, and science, passing new knowledge to the next generation. Fukuzawa Yukichi entered the school in 1855. In 1862, Ogata Koan moved to Edo after becoming a physician to the shogunate, while the school’s educational activities were continued by Ogata Sessai.
Tekijuku closed in 1868, but its educational tradition was later carried on through institutions that developed into Osaka University.
Education and Student Life at Tekijuku
A Culture of Learning and Friendly Competition
Tekijuku emphasized an interactive style of education in which teachers and students learned from one another and challenged each other intellectually. Students formed close relationships, encouraging one another while dedicating themselves to their studies.
An episode from Fukuzawa Yukichi’s time at the school illustrates the close relationship between teacher and students. When Fukuzawa became seriously ill, Ogata Koan struggled to determine the best treatment, showing the sincere concern he had for his students.
Studying with Dutch-Japanese Dictionaries
Students devoted themselves to research using handwritten copies of “Zūfu,” a Dutch-Japanese dictionary. Approximately six times a month, they took part in kaidoku, sessions devoted to translating and studying Western texts.
Students were evaluated using the symbols ○, ●, and △, and those who achieved the required results were selected to advance to higher levels of study. This system of academic evaluation is said to have later influenced the educational practices of Keio Gijuku, founded by Fukuzawa Yukichi.
The Daily Lives and Attitudes of the Students
Many students lived under financially difficult circumstances. Apart from occasional drinking as a modest form of recreation, they devoted themselves primarily to their studies.
In his autobiography, “The Autobiography of Fukuzawa Yukichi,” Fukuzawa described Ogata’s students as diligent in their studies. At Tekijuku, students were encouraged not only to pursue future success but also to study for the sake of knowledge itself, developing a broad base of knowledge and sound judgment.
Tekijuku After Ogata Koan’s Death
After Ogata Koan’s death, gatherings were held on June 10 and November 10 to commemorate their former teacher. Led by figures including Fukuzawa Yukichi and Otori Keisuke, these reunions brought together many former students and helped strengthen their bonds as alumni while honoring their teacher.
From Tekijuku to Osaka University
In 1869, through the efforts of Goto Shojiro, then governor of Osaka Prefecture, and others, a temporary hospital and medical school were established to carry on the tradition of Tekijuku.
These institutions later developed into Osaka Imperial University. Today’s Osaka University traces its origins to this educational tradition, carrying forward the ideals of learning established by Ogata Koan.
Preservation of the Historic Tekijuku Building
The Tekijuku building was designated a Historic Site of Osaka Prefecture in 1940 and a National Historic Site in 1941. In 1964, it was designated an Important Cultural Property.
Osaka University began managing the building in 1972, and it was opened to the public in 1980. Today, visitors can explore the historic building and learn about the school’s educational philosophy and its role in Japan’s modernization.
Restoration and Public Access
From 1976 to 1980, the Agency for Cultural Affairs carried out restoration work on the building. Public access began in 1980.
The surrounding area has also been developed as the Tekijuku Historic Site Park, providing visitors with a place to experience the history of the area. In 2014, seismic reinforcement work was carried out, helping preserve Tekijuku as an important cultural heritage site in Osaka.
Notable Students and the Legacy of Tekijuku
Many of Tekijuku’s students went on to make major contributions to medicine, science, government, and Japanese society. Among them were Ikeda Kensai, the first dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Tokyo Imperial University; Omura Masujiro, who played a major role in establishing Japan’s modern army; and Fukuzawa Yukichi, founder of Keio Gijuku.
Major Figures Who Studied at Tekijuku
Ikeda Kensai — Earned a Doctor of Medicine degree and became an important figure in Japanese medicine.
Omura Masujiro — Played a leading role in the establishment of Japan’s modern army.
Fukuzawa Yukichi — Founder of Keio Gijuku and one of Japan’s best-known advocates of modern education.
Takamine Jokichi — Scientist known for the discovery of adrenaline.
Otori Keisuke — Later served as president of Gakushuin.
Tekijuku’s Contribution to Modern Japan
As a private school devoted to Western learning, Tekijuku played an important role in the development of knowledge and technology in Japan. Its educational approach also influenced ideas about how learning could be pursued and shared.
The school’s atmosphere encouraged students to study freely while challenging and inspiring one another. This spirit of intellectual independence and friendly competition became an important part of its legacy.
The educational traditions associated with Tekijuku were later carried on by institutions including Osaka University and Keio Gijuku. Today, the historic site provides a valuable opportunity to learn about the people, ideas, and educational culture that contributed to Japan’s transition into the modern era.