On Saturday, July 5, first-year IB students organized and conducted the “Uji War Heritage Tour WOW.” Marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the tour was born from a student’s desire to better understand the wartime history of Uji—the very city where their school stands.

Guided by Professor Toyo Honjo, a special lecturer from Ritsumeikan University, participants visited various war-related heritage sites scattered throughout Uji. The tour focused especially on the remains of one of the largest former Imperial Army gunpowder factories in western Japan, offering valuable insights into Uji's connection to World War II. A total of 19 students—5 from high school and 14 from junior high—joined the tour. All listened intently to Professor Honjo, demonstrating a sincere interest in learning about this lesser-known aspect of local history.

Selected Student Reflections:

“Through this tour, I learned that war heritage doesn’t only refer to battlefields but also includes facility ruins, which was eye-opening. I was surprised to learn that gunpowder was stored here in Uji, and realized that Uji’s historical appeal goes beyond just the Heian period. It made me wonder if my own town has a similar past. Closely examining things like the pines near the trolley tracks and the walls and ceilings of the lab buildings was fascinating.”

“This experience made me realize I had only known Uji through famous sites like Byodoin Temple. I was amazed to learn that there’s so much untold history about gunpowder production here. I believe sharing Uji’s connection to wartime efforts more widely can help prevent future conflicts.”

“I was shocked to find out how close these war sites are to our school. These remnants have now become rare and valuable, and since our generation may be the last to hear firsthand accounts of the war, I feel a strong responsibility to pass on what I’ve learned. I also reflected on the fixed stereotypes Japanese people might have about China, and realized how crucial it is to understand history in order to improve Japan–China relations.”

“I was amazed to learn that gunpowder was once manufactured in the same city where I go to school. Until now, I only associated Uji with tourism. This tour sparked my curiosity about whether there might be similar sites near my home, and I want to start exploring. I was so engaged I forgot about the heat!”

“This tour revealed an entirely unfamiliar side of Uji, a town I thought I knew well. Learning that places I pass by daily hold wartime traces has changed how I see the city. It’s shocking to think that peaceful Uji was once a dangerous, map-excluded military zone.”

“I also learned that Ritsumeikan itself was deeply involved in the war—many students were sent off as kamikaze pilots, and scientists who developed weapons later turned to education. This history helped me understand why Ritsumeikan now upholds ‘Peace and Democracy’ as its founding principles. It’s a legacy we must carry forward.”

This meaningful student-led initiative offered participants the chance to rediscover their own community through the lens of history and peace. It was a moving step toward deeper cultural awareness and civic responsibility.