A roundup of artists from Ibaraki Prefecture: rock bands, singers, and rappers too!
If you hear “an artist from Ibaraki,” does anyone immediately come to mind?
You might be thinking, “No one!!” — and you wouldn’t be alone.
But among artists from Ibaraki Prefecture, there are surely some you already know.
While Ibaraki is often associated with a strong lineup of rock bands and other niche acts, the prefecture has produced a wide range of artists—from veteran household names to idols.
I hope this article helps you discover new music and artists to love.
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A roundup of artists from Ibaraki Prefecture: rock bands, singers, and rappers too! (61–70)
Bus stopmatsuki ayumu
Ayumu Matsuki, a singer-songwriter from Toride City in Ibaraki Prefecture, has pursued a unique musical path since his debut in 2005, centered on rock and alternative.
While still in university, he made his debut with the mini-album “Home Recordings” after submitting a song to Quruli’s radio program.
In 2010, he drew attention for innovative initiatives such as releasing the 28-track double album “100 Million Years Record” as a digital-only release and establishing his own donation system, M.A.F.
A true multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, piano, bass, and drums by himself, he continues to operate outside the traditional music industry framework by leveraging the internet to share his music.
Highly recommended for those eager to explore new possibilities in music!
Liberationkisiku o terafu
Kiwogiwau, a five-piece indie band based in Ibaraki Prefecture, has been drawing attention for their distinctive look—every member wears a gas mask—and their emotionally stirring sound.
While grounded in rock, they’ve established a unique style that fuses emotional melodies with a heavy sonic palette, characterized by introspective lyrics and powerful performances.
They deepen fan engagement through streaming platforms like YouTube and TwitCasting, and the vocalist-guitarist, Kijitora, holds regular acoustic streaming sessions that offer a valuable chance to connect more closely with fans.
Highly recommended for those interested in a visual identity that captivates both sight and sound—centered on gas masks—and richly expressive songwriting.
plumMito Gotōchi Aidoru (Kari)
Formed in 2012, Mito Local Idol (provisional) was a female local idol group based in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture.
While rooted in J-pop, they produced songs rich in local flavor and operated under a unique concept as a “name-changing” idol group.
In 2012, 10 members were selected from 87 applicants, and their signature song “MITOrete! Ibarakiss Darling” was featured in KONAMI’s music games jubeat saucer fulfill and DanceDanceRevolution.
In 2013, they won the Grand Prix at the Local Idol No.1 Contest U.M.U AWARD 2013 and were appointed “Mito’s Charm Promotion Directors” by Mito City, drawing attention for their community-focused activities.
They’re a group worth following for those who want to promote the charms of Ibaraki nationwide or who are interested in the potential of regional idol groups.
A rainbow over the rainIsoyama Jun
Jun Isoyama is a singer-songwriter from Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and a community-focused artist who captivates many fans with his warm voice and heartfelt lyrics.
Centered on pop while incorporating elements of folk and rock, he presents a wide-ranging style.
His songs, which carefully depict everyday scenes and human emotions, are supported by listeners across generations.
He has signature tracks that express gratitude in a straightforward way, has won awards in local music contests, and his music has been adopted as theme songs for local schools and companies.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy songs themed around bonds with family and friends!
KAREN ~KAREN~kagura
Kagura is a duo unit consisting of Kohei Iijima and Takahiro Seki from Ibaraki Prefecture, gaining attention for songs that use traditional Japanese instruments grounded in festival music.
In 2004, their single “Senko Hanabi” reached No.
30 on the Oricon chart, and the following release “Wakakusa Rhapsody” climbed to No.
21, steadily growing their fanbase.
In 2009, they won the Song Award at the Universal Music × Shinseido Joint Audition, and the following year they released both “We Are ‘Kagura’” and “The Rain Trilogy” simultaneously.
Their nostalgic melodies and delicate lyrics that cherish the Japanese language resonate deeply across generations, making them a must-listen for anyone seeking the soothing tones of traditional instruments.
Strings of TearsMiyaji Osamu
Osamu Miyaji is an enka singer from Kitaibaraki City who began his career in 1967 as a member of the comic band Tonomaga Kings.
“Namida no Misao” was the group’s fourth single, released in 1973, with Osamu Miyaji as the lead vocalist.
It won the Popular Award at the Japan Record Awards.
Inn of the MistSugiyama Noriko
Noriko Sugiyama is an enka singer from Tsukuba who made her professional debut with King Records in 1998.
She later transferred to Wing Japan.
Kiri no Yado, released in 2005, is her third single and her first single after moving to Wing Japan.