The first Japanese astronauts were chosen by NASDA, the predecessor to JAXA, in 1985 to train as international mission specialists in the Space Shuttle program.
The first Japanese citizen to fly in space was Toyohiro Akiyama, a journalist sponsored by TBS, who flew aboard the Soviet Soyuz TM-11 in December 1990.
The first member of the Japanese Astronaut Corps to fly was Mamoru Mohri aboard STS-47 in 1992.
The agency generally recruits astronauts who have degrees as scientists, engineers and/or medical doctors.
In addition to being Japanese citizens or residents, candidates must meet certain physical standards (including height, weight, hearing and visual acuity), educational requirements, and be fluent in English.