Notable Moments

Inamori devoted 36 years of his life, from age 51 to 87, to the activities of the Seiwajyuku, passing on his management philosophy to young business owners. The impetus for the founding of Seiwajyuku was a lecture he gave at the "Young Business Owners' Management School," hosted by the Junior Chamber International Kyoto on May 22, 1980.

At that time, Inamori was 48 years old. He was serving as the president of Kyocera, which was about to go public on the New York Stock Exchange. According to those who attended the "Young Business Owners' Management School," Inamori initially displayed a formidable intensity and a fervor that radiated from him. But when his speech began, his demeanor completely transformed as he discussed his beliefs and philosophy.

Spurred by this lecture, young Kyoto business owners asked Inamori to hold more study sessions like the one he just held. Though initially hesitant, he agreed after repeated passionate requests, thinking that if sharing his acquired knowledge of business essentials could be of any help, he should oblige.

Thus, in 1983, Seiyujyuku, the predecessor of Seiwajyuku, was established. In the 36 years that followed, Seiwajyuku developed to include 56 schools in Japan and 48 schools abroad, with about 15,000 members in total. Although it closed at the end of 2019 to the disappointment of many, numerous business owners who were touched by Inamori's business philosophy are still working hard around the world, carrying his teachings in their hearts.

Photo: 1980, The Young Business Owners' Management School study session