Gakushūin

The Gakushūin (学習院?) or Peers School (Gakushūin School Corporation) is an educational institution founded in Tokyo in 1877, during the Meiji period, for the education of the children of the Japanese aristocracy, though it eventually also opened its doors to the offspring of extremely wealthy commoners. Notable alumni include Shōwa Emperor Hirohito, the reigning emperor Akihito, Yukio Mishima, and Yoko Ono.

After World War II, the Gakushūin became a private institution and subsequently established new educational affiliates, the most important of which is Gakushuin University. Although it is often said that Gakushūin University is not to be confused with the original school for children of the peerage, members of the Imperial Family are still studying there. The only difference is that it now accepts students from all levels of society.