When you hear “an artist from Kyoto,” does anyone come to mind right away? Even with artists you love, it can be a surprise to find out—oh, they’re from Kyoto! From stately, veteran performers to idols and locally rooted musicians… Finding an artist from your hometown gives you a little thrill, doesn’t it? Kumi Koda is famously from Kyoto, but there are also many distinctive bands and singer-songwriters.
I hope this article helps you discover even more music and artists to love.
- Bands, artists, and singers from the Kansai region
- [Kyoto Songs] Masterpieces that sing about Kyoto — songs themed on the ancient capital. The enduring heart of our hometown passed down in song.
- Lesser-Known but Amazing Singers | A Ranking Focused on Pure Talent
- Bittersweet! Love songs by female artists recommended for the Yutori generation
- [I IS UPPERCASE] Introducing Popular Songs by Yuriii Canon, a Vocaloid Producer from Kyoto
- Kyoto’s folk songs, children’s songs, and nursery rhymes: the enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
- Recommended bands, singers, and artists from Osaka Prefecture
- [J-Pop] Masterpiece by a female duo. A popular two-woman unit [2026]
- Bands, artists, and singers from Okayama Prefecture
- Koda Kumi’s Cheer Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
- Kansai-dialect Songs | A Kansai-born writer thoroughly explains their charm!
- [Nagoya] Bands, artists, and singers from Aichi Prefecture
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
Artists and singers from Kyoto Prefecture with unique personalities (1–10)
RIVER10-FEET
Kyoto Daisakusen has become a hallmark of summer in Kyoto.
The event is organized by 10-FEET, a band highly trusted by fellow artists.
The music video for this song was filmed on the famous Kamo River in Kyoto, the hometown of the three members of 10-FEET.
It is one of the band’s most popular tracks.
Tokyokururi
This is Quruli’s debut single, released when they made their major-label debut in 1998.
The understated vocal delivery, the guitar tone and song structure that even evoke a sense of nostalgia—Quruli’s sound, which seems to embody Kyoto’s musical culture, being embraced nationwide makes me very happy and even proud.
People from Kyoto don’t say “go up to Tokyo” when they head there.
This is a song about Tokyo that feels distinctly Kyotoan.
MUSIC VIDEOOkazaki Taiiku
An artist from Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture.
Their lyrics are hilariously entertaining, yet the melodies are cool, and that contrast is irresistible.
They often collaborate with Yabai T-Shirts Yasan, who are also from Uji City, and are one of the artists energizing Kyoto’s music scene.
Gather round! Party people!Yabai T-shatsu Yasan
The vocalist, Koyama, is from Uji City in Kyoto.
They’ve now become a hugely popular artist, appearing in commercials and festivals.
I think the secret to their popularity lies in their catchy musical style and lyrics that convey simple, universal messages anyone can relate to.
Crazy Danceryoru no honki dansu
Yoru no Honki Dance is a band from Kyoto.
I’m sure many people have been captivated by their stylish sound.
In this music video, their sleek dance steps are another highlight you won’t want to miss.
It’s a band that makes you envy their music, style, and dancing alike.
The Resounding CapitalROTTENGRAFFTY
The winter tradition of Kyoto, the festival “Porno Superexpress,” offers a different vibe from summer festivals.
It’s hosted by the Kyoto-born band ROTTENGRAFFTY.
I think they stand alongside 10-FEET as one of the signature bands representing Kyoto.
Summer is ending soon.Hamabata Youhei
Yohei Hamahata is a singer-songwriter who debuted in 2019.
He made his debut from Office Augusta, home to artists like Masayoshi Yamazaki, Chitose Hajime, and Sukima Switch.
Originally, he balanced a job while making music, but in 2013 he resigned to focus entirely on his musical career, eventually making his major-label debut.
He is known for his clear enunciation and beautiful, slightly high-pitched voice.
For his debut songs, Yohito Teraoka—the bassist of JUN SKY WALKER(S)—handled the composition, and the nostalgic, moving numbers are wonderfully pleasing.