📚 Guide to Applying for a Master’s in Architecture at the University of Tokyo and Preparing Your Portfolio | 东京大学建筑学修士申请与作品集准备指南
The Master’s programme in Architecture at the University of Tokyo (UTokyo) is one of the most prestigious in Asia, attracting aspiring architects from around the world. Admission is highly competitive and requires not only academic excellence but also a compelling portfolio and a well-structured research plan. This guide walks you through the entire application process, from understanding degree structures to preparing a standout portfolio and succeeding in the interview.
东京大学（东大）建筑学修士课程是亚洲最负盛名的建筑学项目之一，吸引着全球怀揣建筑梦想的学子。入学竞争极为激烈，不仅要求优异的学业成绩，还需要一份令人信服的作品集以及精心规划的研究计划书。本指南将带你走完整个申请流程，从了解学位结构到准备出色的作品集，再到面试成功。
1. Understanding the Programme Structure | 了解项目结构
The Graduate School of Engineering at UTokyo offers a two-year Master’s programme in Architecture, typically conducted in Japanese, though some laboratories accept English-speaking students and provide supervision in English. The curriculum is research-oriented, combining advanced architectural design studios, technical courses in structural and environmental engineering, and a master’s thesis. International applicants usually apply as research students (kenkyūsei) first, or directly to the Master’s course through the special selection for international students.
东京大学工学系研究科提供两年制的建筑学修士课程，通常以日语授课，但部分研究室接受英语学生并提供英语指导。课程以研究为导向，融合高级建筑设计工作室、结构与环境工程等技术课程以及修士论文。国际申请者通常会先申请研究生（研究学生，kenkyūsei），或者通过留学生特别选拔直接申请修士课程。
2. Choosing Your Laboratory and Supervisor | 选择研究室与导师
The most critical step is identifying a laboratory (研究室, kenkyūshitsu) and a prospective supervisor whose research interests align with yours. UTokyo architecture labs cover a wide range of fields: architectural design, urban planning, building structures, environmental engineering, architectural history, and more. Carefully study the lab websites, read recent publications, and understand the professor’s design philosophy or research methodology. Directly contacting the professor via email with a concise CV and a preliminary research proposal is often essential before applying.
最关键的一步是确定一个与你研究方向契合的研究室和意向导师。东大建筑学的研究室涵盖建筑设计、城市规划、建筑结构、环境工程、建筑历史等多个领域。仔细研究研究室官网，阅读近期发表的论文，理解教授的设计哲学或研究方法。通常在申请前，需要通过电子邮件直接联系教授，附上简洁的简历和初步研究计划，这往往是必不可少的步骤。
3. Application Pathways for International Students | 国际生的申请途径
There are two main pathways. The first is to enter as a research student (kenkyūsei), which is a non-degree preparatory status, and then take the entrance examination for the Master’s programme after one or two semesters. The second is the Special Selection for International Students (留学生特別選考), which allows direct entry into the Master’s course without taking the general entrance exam. This special selection often occurs in August for April enrollment, relying heavily on document screening (portfolio, research plan, transcripts) and an interview. Confirm the latest schedule on the official website.
主要有两条路径。其一是以研究学生（研究生，kenkyūsei）身份入学，这是一种非学位的预备状态，经过一到两个学期后再参加修士课程入学考试。其二是通过留学生特别选拔（Special Selection for International Students）直接进入修士课程，无需参加一般入学考试。该特别选拔通常在8月举行，面向次年4月入学，录取主要依靠材料筛选（作品集、研究计划书、成绩单）和面试。请在官网上确认最新日程。
4. Essential Application Documents | 必要的申请材料
You will typically need: (1) a completed application form, (2) a CV or personal history, (3) academic transcripts and graduation certificate from your undergraduate institution, (4) a detailed research plan (研究計画書), (5) a portfolio of architectural works, (6) letters of recommendation (usually two), (7) proof of language proficiency (Japanese JLPT N2 or higher, or English TOEFL/IELTS scores if applying in English), and (8) a copy of your passport. Some departments may require a medical certificate or a statement of financial support.
通常需要准备以下材料：(1) 完整的申请表，(2) 简历或个人履历，(3) 本科成绩单和毕业证明，(4) 详细的研究计划书（研究計画書），(5) 建筑作品集，(6) 推荐信（通常两封），(7) 语言能力证明（日语JLPT N2或以上，若以英文申请则需TOEFL/IELTS成绩），(8) 护照复印件。部分专攻可能还要求体检报告或经济能力证明。
5. Crafting a Compelling Research Plan | 撰写一份令人信服的研究计划
The research plan is often as important as the portfolio. It should clearly state your research theme, background, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Demonstrate a deep understanding of the chosen lab’s focus. Avoid overly broad topics; instead, propose a specific, feasible project that could be completed within the two-year Master’s timeline. Cite key references to show academic engagement. Even if your degree is design-oriented, the plan must show analytical rigor.
研究计划书的重要性往往不亚于作品集。它应清晰地陈述研究主题、背景、目的、方法和预期成果。展示你对所选研究室研究方向的深刻理解。避免过于宽泛的题目，而要提出一个具体、可行的项目，能在两年修士期间完成。引用关键参考文献以体现学术投入。即使你的学位是设计导向的，计划书也须展现分析严谨性。
6. Portfolio Requirements and Evaluation Criteria | 作品集的要求与评价标准
The portfolio is the core of your application for design-related labs. Most professors expect a carefully curated collection of 4–6 projects, presented in a clear, logical order. It should demonstrate not only design skills but also conceptual thinking, structural logic, environmental awareness, and an ability to integrate context. Hand-drawn sketches, analytical diagrams, process models, and final renderings should all be included. The format is typically A3 or A4, submitted in a single PDF file under a specified size limit (e.g., 20MB).
对于设计类研究室，作品集是申请的核心。大多数教授期望一本精心编排、包含4-6个项目的合集，按清晰且有逻辑的顺序呈现。它不仅要展示设计技能，还应体现概念思考、结构逻辑、环境意识以及整合文脉的能力。手绘草图、分析图解、过程模型和最终效果图都应包含在内。格式通常为A3或A4，以单一PDF文件提交，有明确的文件大小限制（例如20MB）。
7. How to Structure and Layout Your Portfolio | 作品集的结构与排版
Start with a strong cover page and a brief table of contents. For each project, include a concise title, site location, programme, and a short statement of intent. Use a consistent grid system and typographic hierarchy to ensure readability. Avoid clutter; allow breathing space around images. Physical model photographs often carry more weight than excessive 3D renderings. Diagrams should explain your design process: site analysis, massing studies, circulation, environmental strategies, and structural systems. End with a personal statement that connects your past work to your future research goals at UTokyo.
以强有力的封面和简洁的目录开篇。每个项目附上精简的标题、场地位置、功能计划和简短的设计意图陈述。使用一致的网格系统和字体层级来保证可读性。避免画面拥挤，在图像周围留出呼吸空间。实体模型的照片往往比过多的3D效果图更有分量。图解应当解释你的设计过程：场地分析、体块研究、流线、环境策略和结构体系。结尾可附加个人陈述，将你过往的作品与未来在东大的研究目标联系起来。
8. Demonstrating Technical and Structural Understanding | 展现技术与结构理解
Japanese architecture is renowned for its integration of structural expression and design. Your portfolio should reflect a basic grasp of structural concepts. Include at least one project where you illustrate load paths, lateral force resistance, or detailed construction assemblies. Use simple force diagrams, exploded axonometric drawings of wall sections, or material palettes. If you have coursework in structural design, mention it briefly in the project description. This signals to the admissions committee that you can engage with the engineering-oriented side of the UTokyo curriculum.
日本建筑以结构表现与设计的融合而著称。你的作品集应反映对结构概念的基本掌握。至少在一个项目中展示荷载路径、抗侧力体系或详细的构造装配。使用简单的受力示意图、墙体剖面爆炸轴测图或材料选择表。如果你修过结构设计课程，可在项目描述中简要提及。这向录取委员会传递了一个信号：你能融入东大课程中偏重工程学的一面。
9. Language Proficiency and Communication Skills | 语言能力与沟通技巧
While some labs accept English, having a working knowledge of Japanese significantly strengthens your application, even for the special selection. Aim for at least JLPT N2, though N1 is recommended for smooth studio participation. In the interview, you will be expected to discuss your portfolio and research plan fluently. Practice explaining your design concepts in both English and Japanese. Prepare short presentations (5–10 minutes) that summarize your portfolio highlights and research proposal, focusing on clarity and confidence.
虽然一些研究室接受英语，但具备日语工作能力会大大增强你的申请竞争力，即使对于特别选拔也是如此。至少应达到日语能力考试（JLPT）N2级别，不过N1更有利于顺利参与工作室活动。在面试中，你需要流畅地讨论作品集和研究计划。练习用英语和日语解释你的设计理念。准备简短的陈述（5-10分钟），概述你作品集的重点和研究提案，注重清晰度和自信心。
10. Preparing for the Interview | 面试准备
If your documents pass the screening, you will be invited for an interview, which may be conducted online or in person. The panel usually consists of your prospective supervisor and two or three other faculty members. They will ask questions about your portfolio projects, research plan, motivation, and your fit with the lab. Be prepared to answer technical questions related to your designs and to elaborate on your proposed research methodology. Practice active listening and respond succinctly, showing respect for Japanese academic etiquette.
如果你的材料通过筛选，你将被邀请参加面试，可能是在线或线下进行。面试小组通常包括你的意向导师及两三位其他教员。他们会就你的作品集项目、研究计划、动机以及与研究室匹配度发问。准备好回答与设计相关的技术问题，并详细阐述你提出的研究方法。练习积极倾听，回答简洁，展示对日本学术礼节的尊重。
11. Timeline and Important Deadlines | 时间规划与重要截止日期
Planning ahead is crucial. A typical schedule for April enrollment via the Special Selection:
- April–June: Contact professors, refine research plan and portfolio.
- July: Finalize application documents and submit.
- August: Document screening results; interview.
- September: Admission results announced.
- October–March: Visa application, housing, and preparation for move.
- April: Enrollment.
For the research student path, deadlines are similar but you may need to apply for a student visa through the university earlier. Always check the specific department’s website for exact dates.
提前规划至关重要。通过特别选拔争取4月入学的典型时间表如下：
- 4–6月： 联系教授，完善研究计划和作品集。
- 7月： 最终确定申请材料并提交。
- 8月： 材料筛选结果公布，进行面试。
- 9月： 录取结果发布。
- 10月–翌年3月： 办理签证、寻找住宿、为赴日做准备。
- 4月： 入学。
若走研究学生路径，截止日期类似，但你可能需要更早通过大学申请留学签证。请务必查看目标专攻官网的精确日期。
12. Final Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid | 最后建议与常见误区
Do not treat the portfolio as a mere compilation of beautiful images. It must tell a coherent story of your design development. Avoid using overly complex English or Japanese if you are not fully proficient; clear, straightforward language works best. Ensure all file names, labels, and email correspondences are professional. Never submit without proofreading by a native speaker of the language used. Lastly, demonstrate genuine passion for the specific lab’s research—generic statements about loving Japanese architecture will not suffice. Be specific about why you belong in that particular laboratory.
不要把作品集仅仅当成美丽的图像汇编，它必须讲述一个连贯的设计发展故事。如果你对英语或日语不够精通，不要使用过分复杂的表达；清晰直白的语言效果最好。确保所有文件名、标注和电子邮件都专业。切勿在未经母语者审校的情况下提交。最后，要展现出对该研究室研究内容的真心热情——泛泛而谈热爱日本建筑是不够的。具体说明你为何属于那个特定的研究室。
Published by TutorHao | Architecture Revision Series | aleveler.com
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