As of recent data, Chinese nationals constitute the largest group of foreign researchers in Japan. A survey conducted by Professor Futao Huang at Hiroshima University found that 22% of foreign faculty members at Japanese universities are China-born, surpassing those from the U.S., Korea, and the U.K.
While exact numbers of Chinese scientists in Japan are not publicly available, this percentage suggests that thousands of Chinese researchers are active across Japanese universities and research institutions. Many of these individuals began their academic journeys in Japan as graduate students, with 80% of Chinese researchers receiving their final degrees in Japan, indicating a strong integration into the Japanese academic system.
In terms of academic disciplines, Chinese faculty members are notably present in engineering (24.1%), natural sciences (12.6%), and life sciences (11.5%). A significant majority, 91.1%, hold doctoral degrees, underscoring their advanced qualifications.
This growing presence of Chinese scientists reflects Japan’s efforts to attract international talent, especially in light of its declining domestic research workforce. Chinese researchers are contributing significantly to Japan’s scientific output and innovation across various fields.
