Historiographical Institute University of Tokyo Shiryō Hensanjo

Historiographical Institute, University of Tokyo (Shiryō Hensanjo – 史料編纂所)

The Historiographical Institute (Shiryō Hensanjo, 史料編纂所) of the University of Tokyo is Japan's foremost center for the compilation and research of primary historical sources relating to Japanese history. One of the oldest research institutions in Japan, it holds one of the most important collections of historical manuscripts, documents, and records in East Asia, and has been instrumental in producing the major reference works that form the foundation of Japanese historical scholarship.

History and Founding

The Institute traces its origins to the Shūkokukan, established in 1793 by the Tokugawa shogunate to compile a comprehensive history of Japan. Following the Meiji Restoration, it was reorganized and placed under the Tokyo Imperial University (now the University of Tokyo) in 1869, eventually becoming the Historiographical Institute in its current form. For over two centuries, it has pursued the systematic compilation and publication of primary historical sources.

Collections and Holdings

The Institute holds an extraordinary collection of over 2.2 million items, including original manuscripts, ancient documents, medieval and early modern records, photographs, maps, rubbings, and transcriptions of materials held elsewhere. The collection spans from the ancient period through the Meiji era and includes official records, diaries, correspondence, land registers, temple and shrine records, and materials from aristocratic and samurai families. The Institute holds designated National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.

Notable Materials

The Institute's core mission has produced the Dai Nihon Shiryo (大日本史料, Historical Materials of Great Japan), a multi-volume chronologically organized compilation of primary sources for Japanese history from the late ancient period through the early modern era. Other major published series include the Dai Nihon Komonjo (ancient documents) and the Dai Nihon Kinsei Shiryo (early modern historical sources). These publications are indispensable reference works for Japanese historical research worldwide.

Access and Usage

The Institute's reading room is open to researchers, including international scholars. A significant portion of its holdings has been digitized and made available through its online database systems. The Institute also supports collaborative research and provides editorial services for historical documents.