Question about getting a PhD in physics at any Japanese University


To whomever is reading this,

Some important background information: I am currently in my final year as an undergraduate physics major in the United States. I’ve been exploring graduate schools across the country, but for the better part of a year, a friend of mine — a former Marine officer who lived in Japan for several years — has been encouraging me to consider pursuing graduate studies in Japan.

Question one: How difficult would it be to bring a cat with me to graduate housing? I have an incredibly well-behaved cat who helps me manage stress and sleep better. I can provide documentation supporting my need for my cat as an emotional support animal. However, if bringing my cat would be impossible in graduate housing, I may reconsider even going on the two-week trip. I don’t end up wanting something I can’t realistically have.

Question two: How feasible is it to live on roughly ¥180,000 per month? Assuming housing costs are covered, I read that the University of Tokyo may offer a stipend of around ¥180,000. For reference, I’ve included the link below explaining where I found that number.

Question three: Would it be practical to own a motorcycle in Japan? This could also be a deciding factor for me as with the not bring my cat. I grew up riding motorcycles and it’s one of my favorite hobbies. From what I’ve researched, owning a motorcycle in Japan seems possible, but I’m not sure how fuel, insurance, and maintenance would affect my budget. I find that the mentioned costs aren’t significant in the U.S., but I don’t know how they compare in Japan.

Question four: How might my experience as a physics graduate student differ from that of students in the humanities or soft sciences? I’ve heard that Japan places strong emphasis on the humanities, and I once saw a video explaining how difficult it can be for students in the soft sciences to secure funding for their own. I’m curious whether this challenge is similar for physics students or if funding opportunities are generally more accessible in the physical sciences.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read my message and consider my questions.

Link for the ¥180,000 reference:
https://www.phys.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/programs/

by Individual-Mobile-57