

Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University
Secular
Updated July 2026
Tamagawa Academy is a comprehensive educational institution that provides a K-12 and university-level education on a vast 610,000-square-meter campus. It is dedicated to the "Whole Person Education" philosophy, aiming to foster global-minded leaders who can navigate and contribute to an unpredictable, modern society.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is founded on the principle of "Whole Person Education" (Zenjin Education), which seeks to harmonize six values: Truth, Goodness, Beauty, Holiness, Health, and Wealth. It adheres to twelve educational precepts, including the respect for individuality, self-directed learning, the importance of labor, and international education. The school aims to nurture individuals who possess both unique personalities and a shared global perspective.
Programmes
The school offers a K-12 integrated curriculum that incorporates STEAM and ESTEAM education, as well as IT and international education. It is an authorized IB World School, offering the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The academic framework emphasizes inquiry-based learning, English as a lingua franca (ELF), and practical, hands-on experiences across all developmental stages.
Outcomes
Tamagawa Academy aims to cultivate individuals with the character and skills to contribute to Japanese society and the world. The school focuses on developing students who possess both specialized knowledge and the ability to think broadly, preparing them for university education and future professional roles. Graduates are expected to be capable of creating a bright future society with a sense of purpose and global perspective.
Student support
Learning support
The school emphasizes "Whole Person Education" (Zenjin Education) and provides support tailored to each developmental stage. It utilizes IT education, on-demand learning, and the "TAP" (Tamagawa Adventure Program) to foster character and social skills. Teachers act as facilitators to encourage self-directed learning and autonomy among students.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University offer?
- Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University offers IB MYP and IB Diploma.
- What accreditations does Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University hold?
- Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University co-educational?
- Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University is a co-ed school.
- Where is Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University located?
- Tamagawa Academy K-12 and University is an international school in Setagaya, Japan.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Tamagawa Academy offers admissions for its K-12 division, with specific information available for Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, and High School levels. The school also provides a dedicated International Baccalaureate (IB) class and maintains specific procedures for students returning from overseas, transferring, or currently enrolled in international schools in Japan. Prospective families can request materials or contact the admissions office directly for detailed guidance.
Calendar
The academic year includes a variety of events such as the school anniversary, entrance ceremonies, and graduation. Throughout the year, the school hosts numerous opportunities for prospective students and parents, including entrance consultations, school information sessions, open school days, and trial classes. Major seasonal events include music festivals, sports festivals, and ski schools for specific grade levels.
Facilities
About the campus
The school is situated on a 610,000-square-meter campus that serves as a comprehensive learning environment. Facilities include the ESTEAM area, which consists of five specialized buildings, and a K-12 integrated education area where school buildings are adjacent to facilitate interaction. The campus also features a library, the Museum of Education, the Ohara Memorial Museum, a health center, and various sports and research facilities, including those for honeybee science and brain science.
Co-curriculars
The school is a member of the Round Square organization, a consortium of elite schools committed to global education and community service, and is the only Japanese school to hold this membership. It maintains exchange programs with 240 schools worldwide. Students participate in a wide range of activities, including sports clubs, music festivals, and specialized programs like the SSH (Super Science High School) experience.

- Yoshiaki ObaraBoard Chair and Head of School
As the current Board Chair and Head of School, Yoshiaki Obara leads the institution, continuing the legacy of founder Kuniyoshi Obara. He oversees the comprehensive educational activities of the academy and university.
- Kuniyoshi ObaraFounder},{bio:
As the founder of Tamagawa Academy, Kuniyoshi Obara established the institution in 1921 based on the philosophy of "Whole Person Education" (Zenjin Education). His educational ideals and twelve precepts continue to guide the institution's mission and educational activities.
IB MYP