Report on Future Treatment of Remains From Okinawa Stored at UTokyo
March 10, 2026
On December 12, 2025, the University of Tokyo released a report titled “On Human Remains Originating from Okinawa Prefecture and Stored at the University of Tokyo” (with two errata corrected on December 18). This report was prepared with the cooperation of local governments throughout Okinawa Prefecture.
Based on the findings of this investigation, we consulted with the relevant local governments regarding the future treatment of the human remains. In response, all relevant local governments expressed their view that it would be desirable for the remains to continue to be under the care of the university.
The University of Tokyo accepts with the utmost gravity the trust placed in us by the local governments. In light of their response, we will continue as a research institution to make every effort to ensure that the remains are stored and managed appropriately and under the best possible conditions.
Should any new facts come to light in the future, we will consult anew with the relevant local governments and review our storage of the remains as circumstances require.
As a responsible research and educational institution that respects diversity and inclusion and upholds rigorous research ethics, the University of Tokyo will continue to strive to advance scholarship and contribute to society in order to honor the trust placed in us by the public.
February 19, 2026
The University of Tokyo
- Report (PDF: 1MB) (in Japanese) – Released on December 12, 2025
