About
The school building standing on the elevated site of the former Mito Castle Honmaru is a tranquil space woven from history and nature. Founded in 1878 (Meiji 11), this school boasts a history of 147 years and has produced approximately 40,000 graduates. These alumni are active as leaders in a wide range of fields, including politics, business, law, administration, education, research, medicine, and the arts. (mito1-h.ibk.ed.jp)
The “Path of Mito Learning” leading to the school building has been beautifully maintained in recent years, and students pass through the “Yakuimon” gate, which is believed to be a structure from the Azuchi-Momoyama period, as they commute to school each day with a renewed spirit. Each time they pass through this gate, they can feel the weight of history and the breath of tradition. (mito1-h.ibk.ed.jp)
This site is where the Honmaru of Mito Castle once stood and is a place that has served as a stage for history. From this elevated ground, the cityscape of Mito can be seen at a glance, and the scenery of each season unfolds. In spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom; in summer, lush greenery abounds; in autumn, the leaves turn vivid colors; and in winter, a snowy landscape spreads out. This natural beauty enriches the hearts of the students and enhances their motivation to learn.
The school precepts, “Consistent Sincerity” and “Perseverance and Diligent Practice,” were established in 1908 (Meiji 41) and teach the importance of sincerity and the strength to see things through to the end. Although these values cannot be measured numerically, they are attracting worldwide attention in recent years as “non-cognitive abilities,” which are key to leading a fulfilling life and succeeding in society. (mito1-h.ibk.ed.jp)
In addition, school events such as the “Walking Meeting” and the “School Festival” are planned and managed independently by the students. Through these activities, students cultivate a spirit of cooperation and enhance their social skills. In particular, the “Walking Meeting” is a traditional event that has continued since 1949 (Showa 24), in which students walk 70 kilometers every year, with group walking on the first day and free walking on the second day. Through this event, students gain perseverance and a sense of accomplishment. (mito1-jh.ibk.ed.jp)
While cherishing history and tradition, this school continues to take on new challenges. It has implemented educational reforms to adapt to changing times, such as introducing a credit-based system focused on advancement to higher education, offering small-group classes and diverse elective subjects, establishing a medical course, and becoming an integrated junior and senior high school by adding an affiliated junior high school. These initiatives aim to foster the ability of students to adapt to changes in society and to thrive as leaders. (mito1-h.ibk.ed.jp)
Standing on this site, one can feel the weight of history, the beauty of nature, and hope for the future. The students who study here learn from the past, live in the present, and acquire the ability to carve out the future. This school is truly a place where history and the future intersect, leaving a deep impression on all who visit.