Do you want to study music? Japan is a great destination to consider. With a rich musical heritage and a thriving contemporary music scene, the country offers international students a unique blend of tradition and innovation in music education.
Its emphasis on discipline, precision, and craftsmanship, combined with cutting-edge technology, world-class universities, and skilled instructors, sets it apart as a strong location to pursue a musical education. Whether your interests are classical, traditional, or contemporary music, Japan is a haven for musicians of many genres.
Dare to dream and let the harmonious melodies of Japan lead you on a transformative musical and educational journey. Study music at one of these established schools in the country and make your mark on the world.
Top Music Schools in Japan
1. Tokyo University of the Arts
The university that should be on your list when applying for a music program in Japan is the Tokyo University of the Arts. Its Faculty and Graduate School of Music include areas such as composition, vocal music, instrumental music, conducting, traditional Japanese music, musicology, and musical creativity and the environment, giving students access to a broad musical education.
The university’s music programs cover undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral study. Tokyo University of the Arts is also known for its long history in music education, its Sogakudo concert hall, and its role as Japan’s only national university with a specialized Faculty of Music. With official tuition and fee information available and fee waiver or scholarship-related support listed for eligible students, Tokyo University of the Arts remains a major destination for aspiring musicians.
2. Kyoto City University of Arts
- Study Program
- Location: Kyoto, Japan | Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral
Another university to consider for music studies in Japan is Kyoto City University of Arts. Its Faculty of Music includes departments such as composition, conducting, piano, strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion, vocal music, and musicology. Its Graduate School of Music also offers master’s and doctoral courses for students who want to continue into advanced music study and research.
With a rigorous admissions process and a strong emphasis on artistic development, Kyoto City University of Arts attracts students who want to study in a city known for its rich cultural and musical heritage. The university accepts international students into graduate-level programs, and its alumni include conductor Yutaka Sado, which adds to the university’s reputation in the performing arts.
3. Osaka College of Music
- Study Program
- Location: Osaka, Japan | Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Osaka College of Music is a strong option for students interested in performance, composition, jazz, and contemporary music-related study in Japan. Students can explore undergraduate majors such as composition, music creation, vocal music, piano, wind instruments, strings, percussion, guitar and mandolin, Japanese music, jazz, and popular entertainment. The college also offers a Graduate School of Music with a two-year master’s program in composition, vocal, and instrumental music.
The college’s jazz program emphasizes practical training, including improvisation, ensemble work, big band performance, solfège, composition, and arrangement. Its facilities include jazz rehearsal and lesson spaces that support hands-on learning and performance practice.
Additionally, Osaka College of Music is in Osaka Prefecture, giving students access to live performances, collaborations, and a lively urban music environment. This makes it appealing to international students seeking an energetic and memorable musical experience in Japan.
4. Nagoya University of the Arts
- Study Program
- Location: Aichi, Japan | Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Next on our list is Nagoya University of the Arts, a private arts university in Aichi Prefecture. Its Music Division offers a wide range of courses, including professional artist training, vocal performance, keyboards, strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion, wind academy, sound media and composition, music care design, musicals, dance performance, pop and rock music performance, music entertainment direction, voice acting and acting, and comprehensive music.
The university also has a Graduate School of Music, where students receive private coaching and explore deeper musical expression after undergraduate study. Master’s programs in the Graduate School of Music include areas such as vocal performance, musicology, and instrumental performance.
NUA’s variety of undergraduate music courses makes it a good option for students interested in both traditional performance routes and newer fields such as sound media, music care, pop and rock performance, and music entertainment direction. Students can also consult the university’s international student and financial aid information when planning their studies.
5. Kunitachi College of Music
- Study Program
- Location: Tokyo, Japan | Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral
If you are still deciding, Kunitachi College of Music may make the choice easier. Its Faculty of Music includes a Department of Performance and Composition, with areas such as vocal music, keyboard instruments, strings, winds and percussion, jazz, composition, and sonology. It also includes a Department of Music Cultures and Education, with areas such as music education, music therapy, musicology and music informatics, and early childhood music education.
At the graduate level, Kunitachi College of Music offers master’s majors in vocal studies, instrumental studies, composition studies, musicology, and music education studies. Its doctoral program is offered through the Research Studies of Music major and includes research areas such as vocal studies, instrumental studies, composition, musicology, and music education.
Notable alumni, such as Joe Hisaishi and Masamichi Amano, showcase the college’s ability to produce accomplished musicians across various genres. With a long-standing reputation in music education, a supportive community, and graduate scholarship information available through its admissions materials, Kunitachi College of Music continues to be a sought-after destination for aspiring musicians looking to further their artistic journey in Japan.
FAQs: Music Studies in Japan
What Career Opportunities are Open to Graduates with a Music Degree?
A music degree can lead to a wide range of career possibilities. Graduates may work as performers, composers, arrangers, music educators, conductors, sound engineers, music therapists, arts administrators, or music producers. They may also work in recording studios, broadcasting, film, game development, music licensing, supervision, and digital content creation. With dedication and continued training, a music degree can support a rewarding career that connects creativity, performance, and professional practice.
So, there you have it: five notable music schools in Japan, each remarkable in its own way. There are many other great schools out there, but these five offer strong options for students interested in music study. Of course, no matter which school you choose, you will need to put in the hard work and dedication. If you are willing to do that, you can move closer to your musical goals. So go out there and follow your dreams. The world of music is waiting for you.
We hope this article was helpful. If you are interested, feel free to explore our Available Programs for International Students. To gain more practical tips and valuable insights for your next academic endeavor, make sure to check out our Study in Japan Page!
