A commentary on the ten Taisho symposia.

The article presents information about ten Taisho Symposia on Gastroenterology. The first Taisho Symposium was held at Shimoda, Japan during 1-2 October 1987 which started a remarkable tradition of science, culture, and international friendship. Since then, 10 Taisho Symposia on Gastroenterology have occurred. Principles of Symposia are: it will provide a forum for young investigators to present their work in a scientifically rigorous but congenial environment and participants will benefit from the perspectives of established authorities from Japan and around the world. The Symposia have contributed important new information in the areas of mechanisms of mucosal defense, injury and protection; actions of alcohol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and other harmful agents.