Your First Visit to Waseda University Okuma Auditorium
Waseda University Okuma Auditorium is a landmark building on Waseda University’s Waseda Campus in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Built in 1927 in the Gothic Revival style, the hall was designated a National Important Cultural Property of Japan in 2007. It serves as the venue for the university’s graduation and entrance ceremonies and is also open to the public for lectures, symposiums, and concerts throughout the year. With its Grand Hall (1,121 seats) and Small Hall (300 seats), the facility accommodates events ranging from large-scale ceremonies to intimate academic gatherings.
Located just 5 minutes on foot from Exit 3a of Waseda Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, the auditorium is easily accessible from central Tokyo by public transport.
This guide covers practical information including how to get to Waseda University Okuma Auditorium, where to stay, dining options nearby, and tips for your visit.
Getting to Waseda University Okuma Auditorium
Waseda University Okuma Auditorium is a 5-minute walk from Waseda Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, making it well-connected to central Tokyo by rail.
Nearest Stations and Exits for Waseda University Okuma Auditorium
Waseda University Okuma Auditorium is nearest to Waseda Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, and also to the Waseda stop on the Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line).
Waseda Station (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line), Exit 3a
Exit through the ticket gate toward Waseda University and climb the stairs at Exit 3a. Once outside, head left. At the end of the street, turn left to reach the university’s main gate — Okuma Auditorium is just beyond it. Exit 3b (head right upon exiting, then turn right at the Babashita-cho intersection) can also be used.
Walking time: Approx. 5 min (Waseda University official website)
Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line), Waseda Stop
From the terminus Waseda stop, head east along Waseda-dori to reach Okuma Auditorium. As this is a surface-level line, the walkway from the platform to the venue has little overhead cover, so bring an umbrella in wet weather.
Walking time: Approx. 5 min (Waseda University official website)
From Narita Airport
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Keisei Skyliner + JR Yamanote Line + Tokyo Metro Tozai Line (approx. 65 min / approx. ¥3,000) Narita Airport → (Skyliner, approx. 40 min) → Nippori Station → (JR Yamanote Line outer loop, approx. 15 min) → Takadanobaba Station → (Tozai Line, 1 stop / approx. 3 min) → Waseda Station → 5 min walk. The fastest option via Nippori.
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Narita Express (N’EX) + JR Yamanote Line + Tokyo Metro Tozai Line (approx. 105 min / approx. ¥3,500) Narita Airport → (N’EX, approx. 90 min) → Shinjuku Station → (JR Yamanote Line inner loop, 2 stops / approx. 5 min) → Takadanobaba Station → (Tozai Line, 1 stop / approx. 3 min) → Waseda Station → 5 min walk. Convenient if you plan to stop at Shinjuku first.
From Haneda Airport
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Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line + Tokyo Metro Tozai Line (approx. 45 min / approx. ¥900) Haneda Airport Terminal 1 → (Tokyo Monorail, approx. 19 min) → Hamamatsucho Station → (JR Yamanote Line inner loop, approx. 12 min) → Takadanobaba Station → (Tozai Line, 1 stop / approx. 3 min) → Waseda Station → 5 min walk.
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Keikyu Airport Line + JR Yamanote Line + Tokyo Metro Tozai Line (approx. 50 min / approx. ¥800) Haneda Airport Terminal 1/2 → (Keikyu, approx. 25 min) → Shinagawa Station → (JR Yamanote Line inner loop, approx. 12 min) → Takadanobaba Station → (Tozai Line, 1 stop / approx. 3 min) → Waseda Station → 5 min walk.
Other Routes
- Nishi-Waseda Station (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line), 17 min walk: Use Exit 3b or Exit 2.
- Takadanobaba Station (JR Yamanote / Tokyo Metro Tozai / Seibu Shinjuku Lines), 20 min walk: Can also transfer to the Tozai Line here.
Venue Information Summary
- Official Name: Waseda University Okuma Auditorium (大隈記念講堂)
- Address: Building 21, Waseda University Waseda Campus, 1-104 Totsukamachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Nearest Station: Waseda Station, Tokyo Metro Tozai Line — 5 min walk
- Official Website: https://www.waseda.jp/culture/facility/auditorium/
- Inquiries: Please check the official website for the latest information.
Recommended Hotels Near Waseda University Okuma Auditorium
Hotels in the Takadanobaba and Iidabashi areas, just one to two stops from Waseda Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, are convenient for attending events at Okuma Auditorium.
Sotetsu Grand Fresa Tokyo Takadanobaba
Directly connected to Takadanobaba Station, this upper-mid-range hotel gives access to three rail lines — JR Yamanote, Tokyo Metro Tozai, and Seibu Shinjuku. Waseda Station is one stop away on the Tozai Line.
VESSEL INN TAKADANOBABA STATION
Located 1 minute on foot from Takadanobaba Station, this business hotel is known for its cleanliness and convenient breakfast plans.
Hop Inn Tokyo Iidabashi
A budget-friendly business hotel near Iidabashi Station, popular with cost-conscious business travelers. Waseda Station is one stop away on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.
Via Inn Iidabashi Korakuen
A well-located hotel in the Kagurazaka area with a relaxed atmosphere. Waseda Station is one stop away by Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.
sequence SUIDOBASHI
A stylish design hotel near Suidobashi Station on the Toei Mita and Toei Oedo lines. A popular base for exploring Tokyo’s cultural and academic institutions.
▶ See more hotels near Waseda University Okuma Auditorium (10 with photos)
Recommended Restaurants Near Waseda University Okuma Auditorium
The Waseda area offers a broad range of dining options — from affordable student eateries to relaxed sit-down restaurants — reflecting the neighborhood’s vibrant university culture.
Upscale Japanese
Saki
A Japanese cuisine and sake bar located about 2 minutes on foot from Okuma Auditorium. The menu features seasonal ingredients paired with a carefully curated selection of premium sake.
Casual Japanese
Tamari Gohan
A beloved teishoku (set meal) restaurant in Waseda-Tsurumakicho, popular with local residents and university students alike. Lunch options are the highlight.
Western-Style
Kitchen Green Peace
A long-established Western-style restaurant in Nishi-Waseda, known for its handmade dishes. Popular for both lunch and dinner.
Asian
Dodamu
An authentic Korean restaurant in Nishi-Waseda, known for its pajeon (Korean pancakes) and sundubu jjigae (soft tofu stew). Suitable for small group dining.
Café
AKHA AMA COFFEE ROASTERY
A specialty coffee roastery using Thai-origin beans, regarded as one of the best cafés in the Waseda area. Ideal for a cup before or after your event.
Bar
At-Home Sake Bar Shubiduba
A welcoming sake and shochu bar in Nishi-Waseda with an extensive drinks list. Its academic neighborhood draws a loyal, knowledgeable crowd — a good spot for evening drinks.
Facilities at Waseda University Okuma Auditorium
- Accessibility: The Main Hall’s 1st floor has 2 wheelchair seats, and a multipurpose restroom is available on the basement level (B1F) (Waseda University Culture Promotion Division official site (Okuma Auditorium facility overview)).
Tips Before You Visit
Watch for Construction Near the Campus Entrance
Waseda University’s Building E (tentative name) has been under construction since 2022 as part of campus improvements for the university’s 150th anniversary in 2032. Construction vehicles operate around the main campus gate, so pay attention to guidance from site staff and check for temporary pathway changes during your visit.
Exit 3a Is the Shortest Route from Waseda Station
Tokyo Metro Tozai Line’s Waseda Station has multiple exits. Exit 3a offers the shortest route to Okuma Auditorium: head left after exiting, then turn left at the end of the street to reach the campus main gate. Exit 3b and Exit 2 can also be used to reach the venue.
Bring an Umbrella If Using the Toden Tram
The Toden Arakawa Line (Tokyo Sakura Tram) stop at Waseda is about 5 minutes on foot from the auditorium. As the tram runs at street level, neither the platform nor the walking route to the venue has overhead shelter. Carry an umbrella on rainy days.
Arrive Early During Ceremonies and the University Festival
Graduation (March), entrance ceremonies (April), and the Waseda University Festival (October to early November) bring significant crowds to the surrounding area. Nearby coin parking lots fill up quickly, even early in the morning. Using public transport is strongly recommended during these periods.
Walking from Takadanobaba Station
Takadanobaba Station is about a 20-minute walk from the auditorium. Leave via the West Exit, head north along Meiji-dori, then turn onto Waseda-dori and continue straight. Convenience stores and drug stores are scattered along the route, making it easy to pick up drinks or other essentials.
Cars Are Not Recommended
Private vehicle access to Waseda University’s campus is restricted, and street parking in the surrounding area is very limited. Coin parking lots nearby are few in number and tend to fill up during events. Please use public transport when visiting.
Event Halls at Waseda University Okuma Auditorium
Grand Hall (大講堂)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1,121 seats (1F: 637 / 2F: 232 / 3F: 252) |
| Notes | Designated National Important Cultural Property (2007) |
The three-story Gothic Revival hall is used for Waseda University’s graduation and entrance ceremonies as well as public lectures, symposiums, and concerts. Please check the official website for usage conditions and booking details.
Small Hall (小講堂)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 300 seats |
| Floor | Basement level (B1) |
Suited for lectures, seminars, and small-scale concerts. Please refer to the official website for details.