The Vienna School of Japanese Studies has earned a worldwide reputation for consolidating the philological roots, the anthropological/ethnographic tradition and the reflexive social sciences from various strands of Japanese Studies under one umbrella. Our research as well as our teaching activities display an understanding of Japanese Studies as interdisciplinary area studies. The methodical-theoretical variety required for this approach is provided by our chairs for cultural and social scientific Japanese Studies and their respective team members.

The foundation of our approach to Japanese Studies is a high competence in the written and spoken use of the Japanese language. Our academic education provides students with the tools, social and cultural theories, methods as well as intercultural competencies required for a sophisticated engagement with Japan.