1. University of Tokyo (東京大学, UTokyo) – Faculty of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

UTokyo is Japan’s most prestigious university and home to the University of Tokyo Hospital, a quaternary referral and research institution.

Departments/Specialties:

• Internal Medicine (Cardiology, Oncology, Infectious Disease, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Gastroenterology, Respiratory)
• Surgery (General, Cardiovascular, Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Plastic, Pediatric, Urology, Thoracic)
• Pediatrics, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Psychiatry, Neurology, Dermatology, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Emergency Medicine, Pathology

1. Clinical Fellowship (臨床研修 / “Rinshou Kenshuu” and “Clinical Fellow”)

• Target:
  Japanese citizens or foreign doctors with full Japanese medical license (rare; see “Eligibility” below). Most international MDs enter as observers or research fellows.
• Duration:
  1–3 years (commonly 1–2).
• Structure:
  Hands-on patient care under a faculty mentor, rotating through specialty units, often in highly subspecialized settings.
• Eligibility:
  • Japanese medical license (“ishi menkyo”). International MDs must have their degree recognized and pass national exams (process takes 1–2 years; Japanese fluency required).
  • For clinical research or observer roles, licensing not required.
• Language:
  Japanese (native or JLPT N1–N2 required for any direct patient care); some research roles accept English.
• Funding:
  Salaried, typically ¥5–7 million/year (~$35,000–50,000 USD/year, varies by seniority and funding source).

1. Research Fellowship (研究員 / “Kenkyuin”)

• Target:
  International and Japanese MDs, postdocs, and researchers in clinical or basic science.
• Duration:
  1–3 years (renewable).
• Structure:
  Embedded in a research group (e.g., cardiovascular medicine, molecular oncology, neurobiology), with possible clinical shadowing.
• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD or equivalent; prior research experience strongly preferred.
• Language:
  English is accepted for most research labs, especially at graduate/postdoc level.
• Funding:
  JSPS (Japan Society for the Promotion of Science), MEXT, hospital, or lab grants. Typical stipend: ¥180,000–300,000/month.
• Duties:
  Research, participation in seminars/conferences, possible clinical observation.

1. Clinical Observership (短期研修 / “Tankiken”)

• Target:
  International MDs and trainees.
• Duration:
  1–6 months.
• Structure:
  Non-hands-on; shadowing rounds, attending clinics, lectures, observing surgery or procedures.
• Eligibility:
  Proof of MD degree, CV, reference letters. No license required.
• Language:
  Japanese is preferred; some departments support English-speaking observers.
• Funding:
  Unpaid; must cover own expenses.

Departmental Highlights:

• Cardiology:
  Cutting-edge research in arrhythmia, heart failure, catheter ablation.
• Oncology:
  World-class in molecular oncology, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.
• Surgery:
  Advanced robotics and minimally invasive techniques.
• Transplant:
  Renal, hepatic, heart, and lung transplant programs.
• Pediatrics:
  Neonatology, rare disease, and genetic research.
• Basic Medical Science:
  Strong in molecular biology, regenerative medicine.

Application Process:

• Clinical Fellow:
  Apply via the hospital’s “International Office” or directly to department. Must have licensing and language proof.
• Research Fellow:
  Apply to lab/PI or via University of Tokyo Global Researcher programs; submit CV, research proposal, references.
• Observer:
  Contact department’s academic office; send CV, statement of interest, proof of medical degree, desired dates.

Certification:

• Fellowship Certificate:
  Issued upon completion, stating scope, duration, and supervisor.
• Research Certificate:
  Outlines research activities and accomplishments.
• Observership:
  Attendance certificate provided on request.

Support & Integration:

• International Office:
  Assistance with visa, housing, arrival orientation.
• Language Support:
  Optional Japanese classes for researchers/fellows.
• Housing:
  University accommodations possible (priority for research fellows).
• Visa:
  University sponsors “Cultural Activities,” “Student,” or “Professor” visas as appropriate.

2. Kyoto University (京都大学, Kyoto Daigaku) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Kyoto University is one of Asia’s most prestigious universities, with the Kyoto University Hospital as a leading clinical and research center.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Oncology, Gastroenterology, Nephrology, Surgery (General, Thoracic, Cardiac, Orthopedics, Pediatric), Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology, Emergency Medicine, Pathology

1. Clinical Fellowship / Subspecialty Training (臨床研修医)

• Target:
  Japanese MDs and international MDs with full licensing and Japanese fluency (rare).
• Duration:
  1–3 years, full-time, subspecialty focused.
• Structure:
  Advanced clinical practice, participation in academic rounds, teaching.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.
• Eligibility:
  Japanese license (ishi menkyo) required; not generally open to international MDs without it.
• Language:
  Native/advanced Japanese (N1).
• Application:
  Via hospital/department.

1. Research Fellowship (研究員)

• Target:
  International MDs, PhDs, and postdocs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Structure:
  Assigned to a research group; may include shadowing clinical activities.
• Eligibility:
  MD or PhD, strong research proposal, English sufficient for many labs.
• Funding:
  JSPS, MEXT, or university/lab funding, ¥180,000–300,000/month stipend.
• Application:
  Contact department PI, submit research plan, CV, references.

1. Clinical Observership / Visiting Scholar

• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Eligibility:
  MD degree, statement of purpose, department invitation.
• Funding:
  Usually self-funded, no stipend.

Departmental Strengths:

• Stem Cell/Regenerative Medicine:
  Home to Nobel laureate Shinya Yamanaka and world-leading iPS cell research.
• Oncology:
  Molecular oncology, cancer immunotherapy.
• Cardiology:
  Advanced heart failure and intervention.
• Transplant:
  Renowned programs in kidney, liver, and lung transplant.

Support:

• International Office, visa/housing, English-language assistance, Japanese classes, orientation.

3. Osaka University (大阪大学, Handai) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Osaka University partners with Osaka University Hospital, a major national center for clinical care and research.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Oncology, Infectious Disease, Surgery (General, Cardiac, Thoracic, Neurosurgery, Orthopedics), Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Anesthesiology, Radiology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellow / Specialist Training

• Eligibility:
  Japanese MD license and N1/N2 Japanese; rare for international MDs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, subspecialty focus (e.g., gastroenterology, transplant, neurosurgery).
• Structure:
  Advanced clinical rotations, research and teaching duties.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship (研究員)

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, good English (Japanese preferred).
• Duration:
  1–3 years; participation in high-level research projects, some clinical shadowing.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, lab, or hospital grants (¥180,000–300,000/month).
• Application:
  Contact PI or department; submit proposal, CV.

1. Clinical Observership

• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Eligibility:
  MD degree, letter of purpose, department acceptance.
• Funding:
  Unpaid; own funding needed.

Departmental Strengths:

• Transplant Surgery:
  One of Japan’s busiest centers.
• Immunology:
  Renowned for basic and translational research.
• Cardiology:
  Interventional and advanced heart failure programs.
• Oncology:
  Multidisciplinary clinical and basic cancer research.

Support:

• International Office, housing/visa, orientation, Japanese classes.

4. Tohoku University (東北大学) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Tohoku University (Sendai) is a global leader in translational medicine, with Tohoku University Hospital being a major referral center for northern Japan.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine (cardiology, gastroenterology, nephrology, endocrinology, respiratory), Surgery (cardiac, thoracic, general, neurosurgery, orthopedics, urology), Pediatrics, Oncology, Neurology, Psychiatry, Anesthesiology, Radiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship (“Clinical Fellow”, 臨床研修医)

• Eligibility:
  Japanese medical license (“ishi menkyo”) and high Japanese fluency (JLPT N1). Rare for foreign MDs due to licensing.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Structure:
  Full participation in clinical care, advanced rotations, procedural training.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship (研究員)

• Target:
  International MDs, PhDs, postdocs interested in translational or basic clinical research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, renewable.
• Structure:
  Assigned to a lab (e.g., molecular cardiology, regenerative medicine, oncology), opportunities to observe clinical activities.
• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, prior research, English (many PIs accept), some Japanese preferred.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT or university/lab funding (¥180,000–300,000/month).
• Application:
  Direct to PI/department with CV, research plan.

1. Clinical Observership (“Short-term Trainee”)

• Eligibility:
  MD degree, statement of purpose, acceptance by department.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Language:
  Japanese preferred, but some departments support English.
• Funding:
  Unpaid.

Departmental Strengths:

• Regenerative Medicine:
  World leader in iPS/stem cell therapy, spinal cord and heart regeneration.
• Cardiology:
  Advanced imaging, interventional cardiology.
• Oncology:
  National Cancer Center collaboration.
• Disaster Medicine:
  Renowned for trauma, emergency response.

Support:

International Support Office, English-language help, visa and housing services, Japanese classes.

5. Keio University (慶應義塾大学) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Keio University Hospital (Tokyo) is one of Japan’s most selective hospitals and a leader in translational research and clinical care.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Surgery (general, cardiac, thoracic, neurosurgery, urology, plastic), Pediatrics, Oncology, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Dermatology, Anesthesiology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship (“Specialized Clinical Training”)

• Eligibility:
  Full Japanese license, high Japanese proficiency (JLPT N1); generally limited to Japanese citizens or foreign MDs who complete licensing.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Structure:
  Integrated clinical teams, advanced sub-specialty tracks, high patient volume.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship (研究員)

• Eligibility:
  MD or PhD, English (some Japanese preferred).
• Duration:
  1–3 years, renewable.
• Structure:
  Research lab placement (cardiology, neurology, regenerative medicine, oncology, surgery).
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, lab, or hospital grants (¥180,000–300,000/month).
• Application:
  Direct to department/lab; research plan, CV, references.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD degree, department acceptance.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Funding:
  Unpaid.

Departmental Strengths:

• Stem Cell/Regenerative Medicine:
  Japan’s first human iPS cell clinical trial (eye diseases).
• Cardiology:
  Advanced interventional and imaging, heart failure.
• Oncology:
  Early-phase clinical trials.
• Pediatrics:
  Neonatal, metabolic, and rare genetic disease expertise.

Support:

International Office, visa/housing support, Japanese classes.

6. Kyushu University (九州大学) – Graduate School of Medical Sciences

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Kyushu University Hospital (Fukuoka) is a major tertiary center serving southwestern Japan and is strong in cancer research, hepatology, and infectious diseases.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Oncology, Gastroenterology, Surgery (general, cardiac, thoracic, urology, neurosurgery), Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license and advanced Japanese (JLPT N1); rare for international MDs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, research background, English or Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university, or lab grant (¥180,000–300,000/month).
• Application:
  Direct to department/lab with proposal, CV.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD degree, department approval.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Funding:
  Unpaid.

Departmental Strengths:

• Oncology:
  Advanced translational and molecular oncology, large cancer center.
• Gastroenterology:
  Hepatitis and liver cancer research.
• Infectious Disease:
  National leadership in tropical and emerging diseases.

Support:

International Office, housing, language courses, arrival orientation.

7. Hokkaido University (北海道大学) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Hokkaido University Hospital (Sapporo) is the regional referral center for northern Japan, with strengths in immunology, surgery, and cancer.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Oncology, Infectious Disease, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Dermatology, Anesthesiology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license and advanced Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, subspecialty focused.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, research record, English or Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, lab, or hospital grants (¥180,000–300,000/month).

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Funding:
  Unpaid.

Departmental Strengths:

• Immunology:
  Leading research in autoimmune and infectious disease.
• Oncology:
  Multidisciplinary cancer research and clinical trials.
• Surgery:
  Liver transplantation and advanced GI surgery.

Support:

International Student Center, language support, arrival services.

8. Nagoya University (名古屋大学) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Nagoya University Hospital is a key clinical research center for central Japan.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Oncology, Infectious Disease, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Dermatology, Anesthesiology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license and language (N1).
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English or Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, lab, or university grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, invitation by department.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.

Departmental Strengths:

• Genetic and Regenerative Medicine:
  Cutting-edge genetic therapy and stem cell programs.
• Cardiology/Oncology:
  Integrated translational research and clinical care.

Support:

International Office, visa/housing, Japanese classes.

9. Chiba University (千葉大学) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Chiba University Hospital (near Tokyo) is a major referral and research center with leading programs in allergy, immunology, and surgery.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Neurology, Pediatrics, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Psychiatry, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, N1 Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English/Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants (JSPS/MEXT), university/lab.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Departmental Strengths:

• Allergy/Immunology:
  Japan’s premier center for allergy research and treatment.
• Oncology/Neurology:
  Advanced research and clinical programs.

Support:

International Support Center, language courses.

10. Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU, 東京医科歯科大学)

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

TMDU is Japan’s leading medical-dental research university and tertiary hospital.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Dentistry, Surgery, Oncology, Neurology, Pediatrics, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Psychiatry, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, N1 language.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English or Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, hospital/university grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department acceptance.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Departmental Strengths:

• Oral/Maxillofacial Medicine:
  Japan’s top center.
• Regenerative Medicine:
  Pioneering iPS and dental tissue regeneration.
• Oncology:
  Integrated cancer center.

11. Kobe University (神戸大学) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Kobe University Hospital is a tertiary and academic medical center serving the Kansai region, well known for organ transplantation and cancer research.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Oncology, Gastroenterology, Surgery (Cardiac, Thoracic, General, Orthopedics, Transplant), Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Anesthesiology, Radiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Full Japanese medical license (“ishi menkyo”), advanced Japanese (JLPT N1). Rare for international MDs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, specialty track (e.g., transplant surgery, oncology, advanced imaging).
• Funding:
  Salaried, typically ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, prior research experience. English often accepted.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, renewable.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university or hospital grants (¥180,000–300,000/month).
• Structure:
  Embedded in clinical or laboratory research group, participation in seminars and possible clinical observation.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Funding:
  Unpaid.

Departmental Strengths:

• Transplantation:
  National leader in heart, liver, kidney transplant.
• Oncology:
  Multidisciplinary cancer center, advanced molecular therapies.
• Gastroenterology:
  Hepatology and endoscopic interventions.

Support:

International Office, housing/visa, Japanese classes.

12. Okayama University (岡山大学) – Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Okayama University Hospital is a major clinical and research hospital in western Japan, with strong programs in surgery, oncology, and nephrology.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Nephrology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, JLPT N1 Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English sufficient for many labs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, lab/hospital grant.
• Application:
  Contact PI/department; research proposal, CV.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department acceptance.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Funding:
  Unpaid.

Strengths:

Surgery (transplantation), nephrology, and medical genetics.

Support:

International Affairs Office, Japanese courses, visa/accommodation help.

13. Kanazawa University (金沢大学) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Kanazawa University Hospital is a regional center in the Hokuriku area, with notable strengths in neurology and cancer care.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Neurology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, N1 Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English accepted in many labs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university/lab grant.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, invitation required.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Neurology (dementia, neuroimmunology), oncology (integrated cancer care), regional infectious disease research.

Support:

International Student Office, Japanese classes, visa/housing guidance.

14. Osaka City University (now Osaka Metropolitan University, 大阪公立大学) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Osaka Metropolitan University Hospital is one of Japan’s largest public hospitals and a leader in cancer, gastroenterology, and surgery.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Oncology, Gastroenterology, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license and fluency.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, subspecialty.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English often accepted.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university/lab.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department acceptance.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Cancer, hepatology, minimally invasive surgery.

Support:

International Center, language support, onboarding.

15. Juntendo University (順天堂大学) – Faculty of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Juntendo University Hospital (Tokyo) is a large private academic medical center with international reputation in pulmonary, cardiac, and sports medicine.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Cardiology, Oncology, Pulmonology, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license and advanced Japanese (JLPT N1).
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English possible for research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, hospital/university/lab grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Pulmonary and respiratory medicine, cardiology, sports science and rehabilitation.

Support:

International Center, housing, Japanese classes.

16. Nagasaki University (長崎大学) – Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Nagasaki University Hospital is Japan’s national center for tropical medicine, infectious disease, and disaster medicine.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Infectious Disease, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Oncology, Radiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English accepted in many departments.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university, international grants.
• Special Programs:
  Tropical medicine, infectious disease, global health.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Tropical medicine, infectious diseases, disaster response.

Support:

International Office, language and orientation.

17. Tokyo Women’s Medical University (東京女子医科大学, TWMU)

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

TWMU Hospital (Tokyo) is a private medical center with renowned women’s health, nephrology, and cardiovascular medicine.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Cardiology, Nephrology, Women’s Health, Surgery, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, advanced Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English accepted in research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants, university/hospital/lab.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Nephrology, cardiovascular medicine, minimally invasive gynecology.

Support:

International Center, language support.

18. St. Marianna University School of Medicine (聖マリアンナ医科大学)

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

St. Marianna University Hospital (Kawasaki) is known for emergency and trauma care, transplantation, and sports medicine.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English often accepted.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Emergency medicine, sports medicine, transplant.

Support:

International Desk, language support, housing.

19. Nihon University (日本大学, Nihon Daigaku) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Nihon University Hospital (Tokyo) is a large academic and research institution with broad specialty training.

Departments/Specialties:
Full spectrum: Internal Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, advanced Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English often accepted for research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants, university.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Oncology, minimally invasive surgery, comprehensive specialty training.

Support:

International Office, accommodation, onboarding.

20. Kitasato University (北里大学) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Kitasato University Hospital (Sagamihara) is known for infectious disease, immunology, and surgery.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Infectious Disease, Immunology, Surgery, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, JLPT N1.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English sufficient for many research groups.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Infectious disease, immunology, advanced surgery.

21. Shinshu University (信州大学) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Shinshu University Hospital (Matsumoto, Nagano) is a major regional referral center known for advanced surgical, cardiovascular, and transplantation programs.

Departments/Specialties:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Surgery (vascular, transplant, general, thoracic, neurosurgery), Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Anesthesiology, Radiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology, Emergency Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, JLPT N1 required; rare for international MDs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, subspecialty focused.
• Funding:
  Salaried, ¥5–7 million/year.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English usually accepted in research groups.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, hospital/university/lab grants (¥180,000–300,000/month).
• Application:
  Direct to lab/PI; CV, research plan.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months, non-hands-on.
• Funding:
  Unpaid.

Strengths:

Transplant surgery (liver, kidney), vascular surgery, cardiovascular medicine, gastroenterology.

Support:

International Office, housing and visa help, language courses.

22. Kumamoto University (熊本大学) – Graduate School of Medical Sciences

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Kumamoto University Hospital is a leading center for cancer, immunology, and molecular medicine in southern Japan.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Oncology, Immunology, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, JLPT N1 Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years, subspecialty.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English sufficient for many research labs.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university/lab grants.
• Application:
  Contact lab/PI; CV, references.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Immunology, molecular oncology, infectious disease.

Support:

International Office, orientation, accommodation, Japanese courses.

23. Fukushima Medical University (福島県立医科大学)

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Fukushima Medical University Hospital has become a global leader in disaster medicine and radiation health since the 2011 nuclear incident.

Departments/Specialties:
Disaster Medicine, Radiation Medicine, Oncology, Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Anesthesiology, Radiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, advanced Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English or Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants (JSPS, university).
• Special Focus:
  Disaster/radiation health, emergency medicine.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department acceptance.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Disaster medicine, radiation health, public health.

Support:

International Desk, language/arrival support.

24. Yokohama City University (横浜市立大学) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Yokohama City University Hospital is a major academic and research hospital in Japan’s second largest city.

Departments/Specialties:
Full spectrum: Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, JLPT N1.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Salaried.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English possible for research; Japanese preferred.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants (JSPS/MEXT, university, hospital).
• Application:
  Direct to department.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Oncology, cardiology, hepatology, clinical pharmacology.

Support:

International Office, visa and accommodation help.

25. Hamamatsu University School of Medicine (浜松医科大学)

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Hamamatsu University Hospital is known for advanced imaging, neuroscience, and respiratory medicine.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Neuroscience, Respiratory Medicine, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, advanced Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English sufficient for research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Neuroscience, advanced medical imaging, pulmonary/respiratory research.

Support:

International Student Affairs, orientation, language classes.

26. Tokushima University (徳島大学) – Graduate School of Medical Science

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Tokushima University Hospital is a comprehensive clinical and research facility.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Neuroscience, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license, advanced Japanese.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English usually sufficient for research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants (JSPS/MEXT, university, hospital).
• Application:
  Contact PI, submit research proposal and CV.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Neuroscience, endocrinology, molecular medicine.

Support:

International Office, Japanese classes, accommodation support.

27. Gifu University (岐阜大学) – School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Gifu University Hospital (central Honshu) is strong in GI surgery, oncology, and immunology.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English possible for research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

GI oncology, immunology, clinical research.

Support:

International Affairs, onboarding, housing.

28. Niigata University (新潟大学) – Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Niigata University Hospital (northwest Honshu) is a referral center for oncology, hematology, and advanced dental medicine.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Oncology, Hematology, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology, Dental Medicine

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English for research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Hematology, oncology, dental research, infectious disease.

Support:

International Office, language and visa help.

29. Yamaguchi University (山口大学) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Yamaguchi University Hospital is a leading medical institution for southern Honshu.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English accepted in research groups.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  JSPS/MEXT, university/hospital grants.

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Oncology, molecular biology, GI and endocrine surgery.

Support:

International Affairs, visa, accommodation, Japanese classes.

30. Gunma University (群馬大学) – Graduate School of Medicine

Medical & Clinical Fellowship Programs – Full Details

Gunma University Hospital (Maebashi, near Tokyo) is noted for proton therapy and cancer research.

Departments/Specialties:
Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Gynecology, Urology

1. Clinical Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  Japanese license.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.

1. Research Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  MD/PhD, English accepted in research.
• Duration:
  1–3 years.
• Funding:
  Grants (JSPS/MEXT, university).

1. Clinical Observership

• Eligibility:
  MD, department invitation.
• Duration:
  1–12 months.

Strengths:

Proton therapy, oncology, innovative surgery.