Universities in Japan

Explore top-rated universities and colleges in Japan. Discover rankings, campus details, and key information about top Japanese higher education institutions to help you choose the best place to study.

Japan is home to 971 universities and colleges listed in our directory, spread across 251 cities. Of these, 246 are public and 721 are private institutions. The highest-ranked institution is Kyoto University (world rank #149). The oldest dates back to 1592. Use the filters to compare them by ranking, campus setting, and control type.

971

Universities

251

Cities

246

Public

721

Private

Frequently Asked Questions

How many universities are there in Japan?

Our directory lists 971 universities and colleges in Japan across 251 cities. You can filter them by control type, campus setting, and more.

Which is the top-ranked university in Japan?

Based on world ranking, Kyoto University is the highest-ranked institution in Japan in our directory (world rank #149).

Are there public and private universities in Japan?

Yes. Japan has 246 public and 721 private institutions in our directory. Public universities are typically state-funded, while private institutions are independently run.

How do I choose the right university in Japan?

Compare institutions by world and country ranking, location, campus setting (urban, suburban, or rural), and control type. Open any university profile for detailed admission information, programs, and fees.

What is the difference between an urban and a rural campus?

An urban campus sits in or near a city, putting internships, public transport, and cultural life within easy reach, though living costs are often higher. A rural or suburban campus offers a quieter, community-focused environment with more space and typically lower costs. Use the Campus Type filter to match the setting to your lifestyle.

Top Universities in Japan

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971 universities found

Kyoto University

Kyoto, Kyōto, Japan

Universities in Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

How many universities are there in Japan?

Which is the top-ranked university in Japan?

Are there public and private universities in Japan?

How do I choose the right university in Japan?

What is the difference between an urban and a rural campus?

Top Universities in Japan

Kyoto University

Osaka University

Tohoku University

Kyushu University

Keio University

Hokkaido University

Nagoya University

University of Tsukuba

Waseda University

Hiroshima University

Kobe University

Juntendo University

Chiba University

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University

Yokohama City University

Kumamoto University

Kindai University

Okayama University

Kanazawa University

Osaka Metropolitan University

Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine

Nihon University

Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences

Nippon Medical School

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