"Compared to other large campuses, the Hongo campus has a calm atmosphere. It is focused on courses specific to the University of Tokyo, and the number of instructors and students is small. It is spacious and comfortable."
These are the words of Kawaijuku instructor Tokiyo Kosaka. He is an expert on the University of Tokyo entrance exam, having taught many mathematics courses specifically for the exam, such as "Hyper University of Tokyo Science Mathematics," and also involved in creating teaching materials and writing questions for the University of Tokyo mock exams.
"At first glance, the mathematics problems in the University of Tokyo entrance exam seem like they've never been seen before and are complex, but if you strip away the details, they can be broken down into typical solutions that can be solved properly within the scope of high school curriculum guidelines. That's why, when I teach my students, I don't want to show them solutions that just pop out of nowhere. I try to show them right in front of their eyes that they can be solved if they think about it step by step."
The instructors are not the only experts on the University of Tokyo entrance exam. The staff who support the students are also professionals who study not only the entrance exam but also all information about the University of Tokyo. The school principal, Ryo Kunugi, is one of them.
"Of course we participate in the University of Tokyo's press conferences, but because Kawaijuku is a large institution, we have a department that specializes in gathering information. We also have strong relationships with high schools across the country, and sometimes host study sessions for high school teachers, so we have a strong sense of responsibility to study."
The bulletin boards inside the school are filled with clippings from the student media outlet "Todai Shimbun" run by Todai students, Q&A sessions with current Todai students working part-time, and messages of encouragement from high school teachers; the entire school is filled with messages of support for test takers.
"Just asking, 'How are you doing lately?' can ease the tense atmosphere. We have instructors, staff, and alumni. We all talk to each other and create a comfortable school environment."



