Apr 04, 2022
Dr. Ogino Ginko's 171st Birthday
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates the 171st Birthday of Dr. Ogino Ginko, the first woman to become licensed to practice Western medicine in Japan. As the first female to attend Kojuin, a private medical school for men, she opened the door for women to attend prestigious medical schools in Japan.
Her decision to go into the medical field was spurred by the prejudice she experienced as a female patient. She never gave up despite the hurdles she faced. After graduating from medical school in 1882, the government initially refused to let her take the medical licensing exam. Dr. Ginko petitioned multiple times over the course of two years before women were finally allowed to take the test. After getting licensed, she opened an OB/GYN clinic in Tokyo that specialized in providing safe, non-judgmental care for women.
Outside of medicine,she also advocated for women in Japan to gain the right to vote. Today’s Doodle artwork celebrates Dr. Ginko’s legacy and her commitment to gender equality in Japan.
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More