Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians, including frogs, salamanders, snakes, and lizards. Herpetology is a popular science in Europe and the United States, and there are specialized laboratories and institutes.

Kyoto University has historically been home to many herpetological researchers and has one of the largest collections of herpetological specimens in Asia, but unfortunately it is not well known. We do not have a herpetology laboratory, and our researchers are scattered across several departments. Therefore, once a year in May since 2016, we have been holding a newcomer's camp at the Ashiu Research Forest for herpetological researchers and interested students to deepen exchanges.