Kyoto University Ibunkai

The Kyoto University Ibunkai is an alumni association of the Faculty of Letters and the Graduate School of Letters that was created in 1955 (Showa 30). In addition to deepening exchanges among the graduates, the Association also has the important mission to support current students and newly graduated members.

The name “Ibun” comes from a passage in the Analects that can be translated as “we who are bound by the bond of culture” (以文会友). The character translated as “culture” does not refer only to written letters but also to all human cultural and social endeavors. It also contrasts with the concept of “military” to express continuous resistance against them with suppleness and persistence.

With the support of our more than 10,000 members, we publish the bulletin Ibun, organize parties to celebrate new graduates of the Faculty of Letters, and support the activities of our branches.

[Year of founding]
1955

[Chairperson]
Tadashi Nakamura

[Number of members]
15,072

[Secretariat]
Administration: Sakiko Sato

[Main events]
General meeting once a year, branch general meetings (Tokyo, Nara, Okayama, Kumamoto, Oita) about once a year