Hirosaki University School of Medicine – Hirosaki
Hirosaki University School of Medicine has a history dating back to April 1944, when it was founded as the Aomori Medical School in Aomori City. Nevertheless, because of the immense devastation caused at the end of World War II, the school moved to Hirosaki City.
About Hirosaki University School of Medicine
In February 1948, it was reorganized as the Hirosaki Medical College, and in May 1949, it became the Hirosaki University School of Medicine in Japan’s new system of higher education. It became the second-oldest national school of medicine in the Tohoku region of northern Japan, with a rich tradition of strength and commitment to health sciences education.
Hirosaki University School of Medicine – 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
Hirosaki University’s guiding philosophy, “Communicating to the world, creating with community,” is a twofold commitment: to serve the world while being very much involved in local society.
This vision underlines international collaboration, regional health care assistance, and research aimed at both community health problems and worldwide medical challenges. By this philosophy, the university has emerged as a center of excellence that harmonizes academic challenge with social concern.

Hirosaki University School of Medicine Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions
The curriculum at Hirosaki University is aimed at educating globally competent but locally active doctors. Early exposure to clinics in the first year, Introduction to Community Medicine in the second year, and Social Medicine Practice in the third year, form the initial steps.
During the fourth year, the students are enrolled in the Introduction to Clinical Practice, while during the sixth year there is the Clinical Clerkship II where they are exposed to priceless experience practicing medicine in rural areas and in communities.
Besides, the university adds courses that deal with changing societal demands, including medical ethics, radiation exposure medicine, and patient safety. In the third year, students are also in the lab for approximately six months, working one on one with the faculty mentors, doing research, and sharing their results at on-campus and off-campus venues.
This mix of education, research, and community engagement guarantees that physicians produced are well-rounded internationally, flexible problem solvers, and have a deep appreciation of their home communities.
Hirosaki University School of Medicine obtained accreditation in 2022 from the Japan Accreditation Council for Medical Education (JACME), confirming that its courses are up to internationally recognized standards in medical education.
Advantages of Studying in Hirosaki University School of Medicine
Long Tradition and History:
The university has a history of nearly 140 years, which lends it an established reputation and well-rooted academic traditions.
Advanced Research Institute:
It is home to the Institute of Radiation Emergency Medicine, Japan’s top-level facility, providing advanced research and education.
Aesthetic Campus Setting:
The students tend to applaud the university for the aesthetic and well-maintained campus, which makes for a comfortable learning environment.
Reputation for Quality Education:
Being a Japanese medical college, it provides globally top-class education and hands-on clinical training to prepare graduates for international medical careers.
Notable Location:
Hirosaki University is situated in the city of Hirosaki, which is well known all over Japan for its apples and is, hence, called “Apple Coloured Town”.
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Hirosaki University School of Medicine – Ranking
The Graduate School of Medicine facilitates advanced education and research in a broad range. It consists of 12 Basic Science Departments, the Center for Advanced Medical Research, 34 Clinical Departments, and over 30 Endowed and Joint Research Departments. More than 200 graduate students are actively involved in groundbreaking research.
One of its signature programs is the Iwaki Health Promotion Project, led by the Department of the Innovation Center for Health Promotion. The project examines large-scale health data to create techniques for the early prevention and detection of dementia, cancer, lifestyle-related diseases, and other critical health issues.
The project not only helps to prolong life expectancy in Aomori Prefecture but also acts as a model for the integration of scientific study and community happiness.
The Faculty of Medicine Hospital serves as a key center for medical treatment throughout Aomori Prefecture. It is the sole hospital in the prefecture with superior, specified functions, providing cutting-edge treatment while also serving as a center for the education of highly skilled medical specialists.
Among the hospital’s specialties is the Advanced Emergency Medical Center as a top emergency medicine and radiation treatment facility, demonstrating the university’s expertise in overcoming challenges in specialized healthcare.
Hirosaki city itself provides a rich setting for academic and personal development. There are historic temples, shrines, and Western-style architecture of the Meiji and Taisho eras. Cultural festivals throughout the seasons contribute to student life: cherry blossoms in spring at Hirosaki Castle, the colorful Neputa Festival in summer, the Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival in autumn, and the Snow Lantern Festival in winter.
Surrounded by natural scenery and cultural heritage, students are urged to complement their intense academic pursuits with extracurricular activities and community involvement.
With its firm academic foundation, cutting-edge research, and lively cultural environment, Hirosaki University School of Medicine equips its students to become future medical leaders and researchers—professionals who will contribute significantly in Japan and beyond.
Departments And Course Duration in Hirosaki University School of Medicine
Hirosaki University School of Medicine – MBBS (6-Year Program)
Course Duration:
- Total Duration: 6 years
- Structure: Integrated curriculum combining pre-clinical, clinical, and community-based medical education.
MBBS Departments:
1. Basic Medical Sciences (Pre-Clinical Years)
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Pathology
- Microbiology and Immunology
- Medical Genetics
- Medical Ethics & Professionalism
2. Clinical Medicine (Clinical Years)
- Internal Medicine
- Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Psychiatry
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
- Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
- Orthopedics
- Anesthesiology
- Radiology
- Emergency & Critical Care Medicine
- Community & Rural Medicine
3. Research & Specialized Departments
- Laboratory Research (3rd-year intensive laboratory training)
- Center for Advanced Medical Research
- Endowed and Joint Research Departments
Academic Features:
- Early Clinical Exposure: From the 1st year, including patient interaction and basic clinical skills.
- Community Medicine Training: Practical experience in rural and community health settings during 2nd, 3rd, and 6th years.
- Clinical Clerkships: Rotations in multiple specialties during the 4th–6th years.
- Research Training: Students engage in hands-on research with one-on-one mentoring.
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Facilities And Infrastructure in Hirosaki University School of Medicine
1. Teaching & Academic Facilities:
Lecture Halls & Classrooms: State-of-the-art classrooms equipped with multimedia projectors and smart boards to support interactive learning.
Laboratories: Fully equipped laboratories for Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pathology, Microbiology, and Genetics.
Simulation Center: State-of-the-art clinical simulation labs for the practice of medical procedures and emergency care skills under simulated conditions.
Library: Well-organized medical library with facilities for accessing national and international journals, electronic resources, textbooks, and research databases.
2. Hospital & Clinical Facilities:
Hirosaki University Hospital: Main teaching hospital with high-quality medical care in diverse specialties.
Advanced Emergency Medical Center: Special center for emergency treatment and radiation exposure.
Clinical Departments: 34 clinical departments for all the principal specialties of medicine.
Outpatient & Inpatient Services: High patient volume with diverse clinical exposure for students.
Community & Rural Medicine Facilities: Special training facilities and centers of rural and community health practice.
3. Research Infrastructure:
Center for Advanced Medical Research: Facilitates high-tech clinical medicine and basic sciences research.
Endowed & Joint Research Departments: Joint research facilities with emphasis on healthcare innovation.
Iwaki Health Promotion Project: Research project analyzing large health data to create early prevention and detection strategies for illness such as dementia, cancer, and lifestyle diseases.
4. Student Support & Campus Life:
Hostels & Accommodations: Spacious on-campus accommodation with amenities and state-of-the-art facilities for domestic and foreign students.
Cafeterias & Dining Facilities: Multiple cuisine dining options with healthy food.
Sports & Recreation: Indoor sports facilities, outdoor sports facilities, physical fitness activities, and well-being programs.
Extracurricular Activities: Clubs, cultural festivals, and community outreach programs for making campus life more engaging.
5. Technological Infrastructure:
IT & Computer Labs: High-speed internet connection, availability of medical software, and e-learning portals.
Telemedicine & Digital Health Tools: Application of advanced technology for patient treatment and physician education.
6. Cultural & Natural Environment:
The campus is situated in historic Hirosaki City with temples, shrines, and Western-style heritage buildings nearby.
Appreciate seasonal cultural activities like cherry blossom sightseeing at Hirosaki Castle, Neputa Festival, Chrysanthemum & Autumn Leaves Festival, and Snow Lantern Festival.
Official site For Hirosaki University School of Medicine: Click Here
Hirosaki University School of Medicine Fee Structure
Approximately fee structure will be 60 lakhs to 70 lakhs.
Required Documents For Admission in Hirosaki University School of Medicine
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 Hirosaki University School of Medicine
- 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 Hirosaki University School of Medicine
- 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 in Hirosaki University School of Medicine
Holistic Medical Education:
The students undergo intense training in medical sciences, where clinical and theoretical exposure is maintained to develop overall learning.
Early Clinical Exposure:
Starting from the initial years of study, students are given avenues for experiencing practical clinical practice at partner hospitals, developing hand-on skills and patient care.
Advanced Research Opportunities:
The university focuses on research in the most advanced medical fields, providing students with opportunities to engage in pioneering projects and advance in medicine.
Global Perspective:
As a globally collaborative-focused university, Hirosaki University promotes students’ acquisition of a global mindset as well as preparation for careers in international healthcare settings.
Community Involvement:
There is actual interaction with the community in the school, and the students have outlets where they can use their medical knowledge to help solve problems in the real world.
Integrated Campus Infrastructure:
The on-campus facilities are equipped with well-stocked laboratories, state-of-the-art classrooms, well-stocked libraries, and partner hospitals that allow for learning and research.
Cultural and Ethical Growth:
In addition to medical training, students improve cultural sensitivity, ethical consciousness, and the moral basis for excellent healthcare practice.
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in Hirosaki University School of Medicine
Internationally Valid Degree:
MBBS and other medical courses at Hirosaki University are recognized worldwide, and Indian students are qualified to sit for medical licensing exams like the USMLE or FMGE/NExT in India.
English-Friendly Course Facilitation:
Although the main teaching language is Japanese, English-friendly facilitation, support, and resources are available within the university to assist international students in adjusting and doing well.
Cultural and Academic Integration:
Indian students are provided with support for adapting to Japanese cultural and academic life through orientation programs, language assistance, and mentorship by older students or staff.
Access to Advanced Clinical Facilities:
Indian students get the chance to practice in hi-tech hospitals that are affiliated with Hirosaki University, having access to various medical cases and hands-on training.
Research and Internship Opportunities:
International students can engage in research work, clinical internships, and community health programs, improving their medical skills and practical experience.
Safe and Supportive:
Environment: Hirosaki offers a secure, friendly campus with student support facilities, counseling, and a close community of international students.
Post-Graduation Prospects:
Graduates enjoy good opportunities for postgraduate study in Japan or overseas, and the university has a network that helps with career counseling, licensing, and further education prospects.
FAQ’s
Where is Hirosaki University School of Medicine located?
It is located in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, in northern Japan. The city is known for its safe environment, rich cultural heritage, and scenic beauty.
What is the medium of instruction?
While the main language of instruction is Japanese, international students receive English support, and some courses and materials are available in English.
Are there opportunities for clinical practice?
Yes, Students gain early clinical exposure at the university’s affiliated hospitals, including training in various medical departments.
What facilities are available on campus?
The campus includes modern laboratories, research centers, libraries, classrooms, and affiliated hospitals, along with student housing and recreational facilities.
How safe is the campus and city for international students?
Hirosaki City is known for being safe and welcoming. The university provides student support, counseling, and cultural orientation to ensure a smooth transition for international students.
What are the post-graduation opportunities?
Graduates can pursue postgraduate studies in Japan or abroad, clinical specialization, or medical practice in their home country after clearing relevant licensing exams.
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