MBBS in Japan

Asahikawa Medical University 2025-26

Japan

Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa

Asahikawa Medical University is a well-known national university in Asahikawa City, in the Kamikawa Basin near the center of Hokkaido, Japan.

About Asahikawa Medical University

The university campus is enveloped by breathtaking natural scenery — to the southeast are the Daisetsu and Tokachi Volcanic Mountain Ranges, and to the north lie the grand Kitami Mountains, reflecting the vast and unspoiled beauty of Hokkaido.

Asahikawa Medical University – Table of Contents

About
Advantages
Ranking
Departments And Course Duration
Facilities And Infrastructure
Fee Structure
Required Documents
Eligibility Criteria
Admission Process
Benefits
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
FAQ’s

Asahikawa town, with a population of around 325,000, is not a large city but is famous for its clean environment, scenic beauty, and living standard. Most visitors are generally amazed by its cleanliness of air and water, which symbolize the unpolluted nature of the region.

Asahikawa Medical University Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

The university campus itself is ideally located on a beautiful hill approximately 15 minutes by car to the south of Asahikawa Station and just 20 minutes from the airport, offering convenience with tranquility. Despite its infamous cold winter reputation, Asahikawa overwhelms its residents with its breathtaking winter beauty, including beautiful snowflakes and the diamond dust effect of sparkling ice particles that form on particularly frosty mornings — a phenomenon only available in this part of Japan.

Established in November 1973 following Japan’s “One Prefecture, One Medical School” policy, Asahikawa Medical University was founded with the aim of filling the region’s and the country’s shortage of doctors. Marking its 50th anniversary, the university is still committed to its original purpose of contributing to medical education, healthcare, and research.

The Nursing Course, established in 1996, will have its 30th anniversary soon, enriching further the university’s contribution to health care education. Over the last decades, Asahikawa Medical University has been proudly sending a total of more than 6,300 graduates, 4,743 from the Medical Course and 1,558 from the Nursing Course.

These graduates have gone on to contribute to communities not only in Hokkaido but also in Japan and internationally, making important contributions in clinical practice, research, and medical and healthcare science innovation. Many of the graduates of the Graduate School of Medical Science (Ph.D. Program) and the Graduate School of Nursing Science (Master’s Program) are engaged in creative research, working very diligently to create medical and nursing sciences.

Advantages of Studying in Asahikawa Medical University

Character and ethics emphasis: The university will endeavor to create professionals who have a solid moral foundation, emphasizing the dignity of human life and cultivating empathy for patients.

Specialized skills and knowledge: The students are educated to gain highly specialized knowledge as well as well-balanced medical skills.

Lifelong learning: The curriculum is structured to create a capacity for students to learn and study throughout their working lives.

Teamwork and communication: One of the major goals is to boost students’ power of open and effective communication, which is important in medical teamwork and patient safety.

Community and global involvement: The university fosters an awareness of rural and local health needs and promotes a sense of commitment to the global community.

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Asahikawa Medical University – Ranking

The university has been actively committed to the improvement of healthcare in Hokkaido’s eastern and northern regions, areas which are more likely to encounter limited access to medical resources. Although social and medical ground has significantly transformed in the past half century, Asahikawa Medical University’s core mission remains the same — the development of compassionate and capable medical professionals, the delivery of high-quality medical care, and the protection of surrounding communities from health hazards.

Educated as to how it needs to innovate in an increasingly changing world, the university actively engages in university-level discussions on how best to continue to grow and recommit itself in modern times. One of the unique strengths of Asahikawa Medical University is its culture of devotion to regional medicine — a spirit that runs through thick and thin with its students, teachers, and employees.

This shared purpose engenders cooperation and creativity, driving the institution to pursue new and innovative answers to practice and education in medicine. It is where tradition and change meet that the university moves forward into its future with renewed commitment — to be a leader in medical advancement, to preserve community care, and to confront new challenges with vigor and creativeness. By unity, vision, and excellence, Asahikawa Medical University is a beacon of medical education and service in Hokkaido and globally.

Departments And Course Duration in Asahikawa Medical University

MBBS (Equivalent Medical Program) – Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa

Asahikawa Medical University (AMU), located in Hokkaido, Japan, offers a comprehensive six-year medical program equivalent to the MBBS degree, officially known as the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program in Japan. The curriculum integrates foundational medical sciences, clinical education, and research, preparing students to become skilled, ethical, and community-oriented physicians.

Course Duration

Program Name: Doctor of Medicine (MD) – Equivalent to MBBS
Duration: 6 years (Full-time)
Medium of Instruction: Japanese
Structure: Pre-clinical (Years 1–2), Para-clinical (Years 3–4), Clinical (Years 5–6)

Departments / Academic Structure

Asahikawa Medical University is organized into multiple departments and divisions covering all major areas of modern medical science. The curriculum combines basic medical education with clinical practice and research training.

1. Pre-clinical and Basic Medical Sciences

Students begin their studies with foundational subjects that form the base of medical knowledge.

Anatomy
Physiology
Biochemistry
Histology and Embryology
Pathology
Microbiology and Immunology
Pharmacology
Behavioral Science and Medical Ethics
Public Health and Preventive Medicine

2. Para-clinical and Research Training

This phase strengthens students’ understanding of disease mechanisms and introduces them to research methodology.

Pathophysiology
Laboratory Medicine
Medical Informatics
Molecular and Cellular Biology
Epidemiology
Introduction to Clinical Medicine
Research and Laboratory Practice

3. Clinical Medicine (Years 5–6)

Students engage in clinical clerkships and hospital-based training under supervision, rotating through various specialized departments.

Internal Medicine (including Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Nephrology, Respiratory Medicine, etc.)
General Surgery
Orthopaedic Surgery
Pediatrics
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Psychiatry and Neurology
Dermatology
Ophthalmology
Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
Radiology
Emergency and Critical Care Medicine
Anesthesiology
Rehabilitation Medicine
Community and Family Medicine

4. Advanced & Elective Training

Clinical Research or Project Work
Rural Medicine and Community Health Practice
Clinical Electives in Specialized Fields

Clinical Training Facilities

Clinical education is primarily conducted at Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, a major teaching and research hospital serving northern Hokkaido. Students also participate in regional healthcare programs and rural medical training to understand community-based medicine — a key focus of AMU’s mission.

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Facilities And Infrastructure in Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa

Asahikawa Medical University (AMU), strategically located in the center of Japan’s Hokkaido island, has state-of-the-art infrastructures and facilities that can sustain world-class medical education, research, and health care provision. The campus facilitates the combination of advanced technology with a serene natural environment, providing students with an ideal setting for studies and self-enhancement.

Campus and Academic Infrastructure

Lecture Halls and Classrooms: Spacious, well-equipped lecture halls with multimedia arrangements to facilitate interactive learning.

Laboratories and Research Facilities: Advanced labs in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, and molecular biology. Faculty, students, and researchers are equipped with advanced equipment for experiments and clinical research.

Medical Simulation Center: Advanced simulation centers, mannequins, and virtual training devices allow students to practice clinical procedures in a safe and controlled environment.

Library and Learning Centres: A rich library of medical books, journals, e-materials, and research databases to aid study and research. Remote access is also provided for online learning and research.

Computer and IT Facilities: Broadband connectivity, computer labs, and access to special medical software to analyze data, conduct research, and for medical education.

Hospital and Clinical Training Centres

Asahikawa Medical University Hospital: A modern teaching hospital with over 500 beds, providing students with extensive clinical practice in all principal medical specialties.

Specialty Departments: Fully equipped departments including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, radiology, and emergency medicine.

Outpatient Clinics and Community Health Centers: Provision of supervised community medicine and primary care for students.

Advanced Diagnostic and Treatment Units: Up-to-date imaging, laboratory, and surgical units based on current medical standards.

Student Amenities and Campus Life

Hostels and Dormitories: State-of-the-art hostel and dormitory facilities within the campus, ensuring safe and comfortable living conditions for students.

Cafeteria and Dining Services: Different dining halls providing nutritious food with student dietary needs in mind.

Sports and Recreation: Indoor and outdoor recreation facilities like gymnasiums, sports grounds, and health clubs.

Extracurricular Activities: Cultural, academic, and recreational clubs and societies.

Health and Wellness Services: Medical care and student counseling to promote physical and mental well-being.

Campus Environment

The campus, located on a scenic hill, has beautiful views of the Daisetsu and Kitami mountains, and there is a serene environment conducive to learning.

Fresh air and natural environment promote general well-being, and therefore it is a friendly environment for students to live and study.

Asahikawa Medical University harmonizes first-rate educational facilities, a state-of-the-art teaching hospital, and a supportive campus culture to provide students with a comprehensive medical education. The integration of research labs, simulation centers, clinical practice, and recreational facilities ensures all-around growth for future medical practitioners.

Official site For Asahikawa Medical University: Click Here

Asahikawa Medical University Fee Structure

Approximately fee structure will be 60 lakhs to 70 lakhs.

Required Documents For Admission in Asahikawa Medical University

Academic transcripts from higher secondary school

Passport-sized photos and a valid passport

Language proficiency proof (JLPT / TOEFL / IELTS)

Letters of recommendation (If required).

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Financial proof of ability to pay tuition and living expenses

Health check-up and vaccination records

Eligibility Criteria For Admission in Asahikawa Medical University

Academic Qualification – Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Minimum Marks – At least 70% in PCB subjects
Entrance Exam – NEET (for Indian students)
Language Requirement – JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N2/N1 or TOEFL/IELTS if applying for English-medium programs
Age Limit – Should cross 17+
Valid Passport

Admission Process For Asahikawa Medical University

Research Universities: Find the top medical colleges in Japan and check if they offer MBBS in English or Japanese.
Prepare Documents: Collect all required academic and personal documents.
Submit Application: Apply online through the university portal or via Japanese embassies.
Entrance Exams: universities may require a written test or interview (if Necessary)
Application Fee: Complete payment as part of the process.
Get Acceptance Letter: If selected, you’ll receive an admission letter needed for the student visa

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Benefits of Studying at Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa

Asahikawa Medical University (AMU) offers an exceptionally effective and quality medical education experience, and as such it is a preferred university for individuals who want to engage in a medical profession. The university offers exceptionally effective academic training coupled with clinical exposure, research experiences, and a conducive environment to develop personally.

1. Quality Medical Education

Lengthy six-year MD program (comparable to MBBS) with the inclusion of pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical medicine.

Curriculum comprises inclusion of basic sciences, clinical skills, medical ethics, and community health to ensure balanced training.

Early clinical exposure and practical training at affiliated hospitals and community health centers.

2. Experienced Faculty and Research Opportunities

Study under highly qualified faculty members, including leading researchers and clinicians.

Facilities for participation in cutting-edge medical research and clinical studies.

State-of-the-art research facilities and laboratories to encourage innovation and scientific investigation.

3. Advanced Facilities and Infrastructure

State-of-the-art teaching hospital with full departments and modern diagnostic facilities.

Advanced medical simulation facilities for safe and efficient clinical training.

Fully equipped laboratories, library, and digital facilities for research and study.

4. Exposure to Regional and Community Medicine

AMU emphasizes regional and rural community health, with students experiencing hands-on practice in diverse medical settings.

Community-oriented education enhances sensitivity to public health, preventive medicine, and patient care.

5. Environmental and Cultural Advantages

Set in beautiful Asahikawa, Hokkaido, with a secure, peaceful, and healthy environment with clean water and air.

Opportunities to be immersed in Japanese culture, lifestyle, and seasonality such as snow festivals and diamond dust mornings.

6. Global Acceptance and Job Prospects

Masters and doctoral graduates are widely welcomed in Japan and can pursue postgraduate study, clinical practice, and research overseas.

The university is very highly regarded in medical education, equipping students well for professional practice and licensing examinations.

7. Holistic Student Development

Extracurricular activities are encouraged through student clubs, sporting facilities, and cultural activities.

International student support services, language services, and counseling ensure international students integrate smoothly.

Education in Asahikawa Medical University provides a balanced blend of academic intensity, exposure to practice, research exposure, exposure to the community, and culture exposure. The university not only equips the students as skillful doctors but also as nicely groomed ethical, humane, and socially conscious medical professionals.

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa

Asahikawa Medical University (AMU) welcomes international students from everywhere on the globe, including India, to provide a friendly and welcoming atmosphere so that they can feel at home, settle in without any difficulty, and achieve their medical education very easily. Indian students can take advantage of different academic benefits, cultural benefits, and practical benefits at the university.

1. Recognition and Career Opportunities

AMU’s MD (equivalent to MBBS) is recognized in Japan, and the graduates are eligible to sit for the Japanese National Medical Licensing Examination (NMLE).

The graduates are also at liberty to seek postgraduate training or registration in other countries, including India, subject to the rules of the local medical council.

A strong clinical medicine and research base prepares the students with possibilities of having an international career.

2. International Student Support

International Student Support Office, committed to serving students, assists with admissions, visa applications, and orientation at the university.

Language assistance programs improve the clinical training and examination Japanese required by students.

Cultural adjustment, academic guidance, and career guidance are provided.

3. Affordable and Transparent Education

Fees for international students are competitive compared to Japan and other nations’ private universities.

Need-based or merit scholarships and financial assistance, which reduce the Indian student’s economic burden.

4. Campus Life and Accommodation

Up-to-date, modern on-campus hostels for international students.

Safe, clean, and culturally rich living environment.

Space for cafeterias, recreation centers, sports facilities, and student clubs to achieve a balance between academic and social life.

5. Clinical Skill Development and Exposure

Early and frequent clinical exposure in Asahikawa Medical University Hospital and its related clinics.

Hands-on experience in rural and community medicine, enhancing experiential skills and patient care knowledge.

Contact with the environment to observe and learn about Japanese medical practice, technology, and hospital management systems.

6. Cultural Exchange and Networking

Interaction with Japanese and other foreign students supports global thinking and intercultural learning.

Participation in university festivals, club activities, and community outreach programs encourages social and cultural integration of Indian students.

7. Scenic and Safe Environment

A clean, comfortable, and safe living environment that international students would adore in Asahikawa.

Exposure to outdoor activities, winter sports, and local culture enhances general well-being.

Indian students at Asahikawa Medical University have:

Internationally recognized medical education
Strong clinical and research training
Low fees and possible scholarships
Assistance with international student services
Safe and multicultural campus and residential conditions
Cross-cultural learning and community engagement experiences

FAQ’s

Are there opportunities for research and electives?

Yes, students can participate in research projects in medical and nursing sciences.
Elective placements in Japan or abroad are available for advanced clinical exposure and skill development.

Is Asahikawa a good city for international students?

Yes, Asahikawa is safe, clean, and culturally rich, with beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains and rivers.
Winters are cold, but the city is well-prepared, and students enjoy unique experiences like snow festivals and diamond dust phenomena.

What are the tuition fees and living costs?

Tuition fees are moderate compared to private universities in Japan.
Additional costs include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Scholarships may help reduce financial burdens.

What is campus life like for international students?

AMU provides on-campus accommodations and modern facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and cafeterias.
A supportive International Student Office assists with cultural adaptation, academic guidance, and visa matters.
Students can participate in clubs, festivals, and extracurricular activities.

What is the clinical training and hospital exposure?

Students undergo clinical rotations at Asahikawa Medical University Hospital and affiliated hospitals.
Training includes general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, emergency medicine, and community health.
Hands-on practice in rural and regional hospitals provides exposure to community-based medicine.