Transnational Time and Place Between East and West: Shimoda Utako and Intertwined Ideal of Women’s Education in Modern Japan, 1868–1936

This chapter aims to explore the intertwined development of women’s education in modern Japan, with particular focus on the influential figure of Shimoda Utako and her educational initiative that transcended national boundaries. By examining Shimoda’s personal background, social context, and geopolitical landscape of Japan, the chapter illuminated how her philosophy of ryōsai kenbo (goodwife, wise mother) emerged as multifaceted amalgamation of Confucian principles, nationalist fervor, modern ideals, and feminist aspirations. Shimoda’s complex relationship with the West stirred up within her a deep-seated sense of national identity and a burgeoning commitment to Pan-Asianism. This ideological awakening propelled her to devote herself to the advancement of women’s education not only in Japan but also in neighboring China. As an esteemed educator, Shimoda became a symbol of the complexity and contradictions inherent in women’s education. Her thoughts and practices illustrate the educational evolution of Japanese women involving intersectional discrimination of gender, class, and race.