Bands, artists, and singers from Nara Prefecture
Can you think of any musicians from Nara Prefecture?
From chart-topping singers and bands to indie groups active mainly around Kansai, there are so many artists worth checking out!
In this article, our editorial staffer from Nara will pick recommended artists—major or indie alike—and introduce what makes them so appealing.
People sometimes say Nara has nothing but deer and the Great Buddha, but the music scene here is full of charm that rivals any other prefecture!
So let’s dive right in and take a look at the artists Nara is proud of!
- Bands, artists, and singers from the Kansai region
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- Hidden gems and lesser-known songs by popular Japanese rock bands
Bands, artists, and singers from Nara Prefecture (11–20)
handkerchiefKokoro Ōkushon
Formed in 2011, the band Cocoro Auction, which performed in that year’s “eo Music Try” competition and won the Grand Prix, also hails from Nara Prefecture.
In addition to appearing at local Nara events, they were in charge of the support song for Nara TV’s broadcast of the 98th National High School Baseball Nara Tournament.
While staying true to their commitment to vocal-forward songs, they also experiment with a variety of sonic approaches in their tracks.
They’re a recommended band for anyone who loves guitar rock with beautiful vocals and melodies.
Lost SeaSprit end
Formed as a cover band in their first year of high school, Split end went on to write original songs and have been active mainly in their hometown of Nara.
They’re one of the bands that best represent this generation in Nara, having kept running since their formation.
Their music is characterized by vocalist/guitarist Nanami’s distinctly feminine yet strong, grounded voice, paired with a cool alternative sound that at times incorporates elements reminiscent of shoegaze.
Their appeal lies in the fact that they’re far more than just a “cute” girl band.
The more you listen, the deeper their songs pierce your heart—take this opportunity to give them a listen.
nonsenseMurase Mayumi
Singer-songwriter Mayumi Murase performs a wide range of music—from intimate acoustic guitar-and-vocal sets to rock numbers that push a full band sound.
Within that range, she covers everything from bright, buoyant tunes to tear-jerking, deeply moving ballads.
She also varies her vocal style to suit each song.
As an officially certified MUSIC BUSKER artist, she also plays street shows around Umeda’s Umekita Square in Osaka.
CaneléCoelacanth
Coelacanth was formed primarily by members of OVER ACTION, a rock band on CATCH ALL RECORDS that was active not only in their hometown of Nara but across Japan.
Armed with twin vocals from bassist Maato and guitarist Show, they deliver songs brimming with the catchy appeal that has been their hallmark since the OVER ACTION days.
While OVER ACTION often leaned into a melodic hardcore approach, Coelacanth has embraced a more guitar-driven rock style, resulting in many tracks you’ll want to sit with and savor over repeated listens.
gingkoAYNIW TEPO
AYNIW TEPO is a band active mainly in Nara Prefecture.
Featuring synthesizers, guitars marked by spacious effects, and folk-inspired beats, they blend the soothing qualities of ambient music with a passionate, oriental allure.
On top of this instrumental foundation, Misato’s vocals resonate beautifully.
It’s rare to come across a band that crosses so many genres, but having such bands is precisely one of Nara’s distinctive traits!
Until this sound stopsraciku
raciku is a piano-and-guitar rock band from the Kansai region.
Centered around Yuya Hirata—who had already been active as a solo artist mainly in Nara—they started in 2017.
Their biggest draw is, without a doubt, Hirata’s overwhelming vocals.
With just one listen, his voice’s distinctive timbre pulls you in, and many listeners are captivated by his remarkable singing ability.
Even on recordings his voice is moving, but hearing it live is unimaginably powerful and beautiful.
They’ve written many songs that hit you right in the heart, so if you’re curious, be sure to experience them at a live show!
Bands, artists, and singers from Nara Prefecture (21–30)
I cut my bangs too short.Mito Natsume
Natsume Mito is a model and TV personality from Nara City, Nara Prefecture, known for her signature hairstyle with extremely short, evenly cut bangs.
This song was released in 2015 as her debut single and was produced by Yasutaka Nakata.
Eleven music videos were created by eleven different creators, including versions such as the “School Edition,” “Chinese Cabbage Edition,” and “Doodle Edition.”