He was born in Yamato, now Nara Prefecture. Encountering Christianity young, he began to think about the link between faith and education. Later study in America of theology and women's schooling became the starting point of his life's work.
He went to America to study theology and also observed women's colleges. Seeing women pursue advanced learning convinced him Japan needed similar institutions. His plan for educational work after returning took shape here.
After returning he toured arguing for women's education. Few women then received higher schooling, so winning understanding was itself major work. With thoroughness of conviction as his watchword, he began gathering supporters.
He opened Japan Women's University (college) at Mejiro in Tokyo and became its first president. Japan Women's University (college) offered departments such as home economics, Japanese and English, pioneering higher education for women. Many collaborators gathered for the opening.
He set a policy centered on character and social contribution, asking students for thoroughness of conviction. Rather than rote learning, he aimed to raise women who think and act for themselves. The school spirit gradually took root.
Graduates began to thrive as teachers, in households and in social work, raising the school's reputation. Showing by example why women should study also quieted opposition. Naruse further expanded departments.
Entering Taishō he expanded facilities and revised the curriculum. Updating content for changes in industry and home life, he sought to widen the role of Japan Women's University (college). He also worked hard at fundraising.
In lectures and writings across the country he kept explaining why women should study. He argued that raising people able to contribute in both home and society also served national development. As graduates of Japan Women's University (college) increased, he spoke out energetically as an educator.
Years of overwork damaged his health and forced him to cut front-line duties. Even so he kept advising students and faculty and worrying over the school's future. His sense of duty as founder did not change.
He died of illness in Tokyo at sixty. Founding Japan Women's University (college) and opening higher education for women was a major achievement later carried on by Japan Women's University. His was a life of teaching thoroughness of conviction.
Komura JutarōUeki EmoriKuga KatsunanMikimoto KōkichiTsubouchi ShōyōAkiyama YoshifuruKatayama SenKanō Jigorō
People of the Meiji period ・ People by period
Based on facts found in textbooks and biographies. Uncertain points are marked as such.