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
- Classic Songs About Nara: Local Anthems and Popular Hits [2026]
- Recommended bands, singers, and artists from Osaka Prefecture
- Bands, artists, and singers from Miyazaki Prefecture
- Girls’ rock: female vocal bands that were active in the 2000s
- Bands, artists, and singers from Iwate Prefecture
- Indie hit song rankings
- Kansai-dialect Songs | A Kansai-born writer thoroughly explains their charm!
- Recommended for high school students! Stylish J‑pop and songs by trending popular artists
- From cute to cool: iconic and recommended songs from uniquely individual girl bands
- [Song of Osaka] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes
- Tear-jerking motivational songs by Japanese bands: recommended classics and popular tracks
- Songs related to Mie Prefecture. Beloved local tunes of Mie that continue to be cherished.
Bands, artists, and singers from Nara Prefecture (1–10)
Dream In DriveTHE ORAL CIGARETTES
Now performing at major festivals nationwide and enjoying immense popularity among Japanese rock band fans, THE ORAL CIGARETTES have become a dominant presence.
Starting in 2010, they expanded their activities from their local live houses to venues across the country, and after winning the Grand Prix at the 2012 MASH A&R audition, their name rapidly gained recognition.
While their catchy guitar rock ignites the floor, they make vocalist-guitarist Takuya Yamanaka’s bewitching voice the core of their music, drawing many listeners in with a subtly mysterious and alluring sound.
Dance all night my friendsAge Factory
Formed in 2010 around vocalist-guitarist Eisuke Shimizu, who was then a high school student, the band played live shows at their local venues almost every weekend.
After some lineup changes, they broadened their activities.
True to the name Age Factory, their style powerfully communicates the culture and convictions of their generation, resonating with many young people.
They’re highly regarded not only by listeners but also by fellow musicians, and are a rock band from Nara that is sure to soar even higher in the future.
NEVERLANDLOSTAGE
When it comes to rock bands from Nara Prefecture, LOSTAGE is absolutely indispensable.
Formed in 2001 around the brothers Takehisa Gomi and Takuto Gomi, they’ve been a vital force in Nara’s music scene through launching THROAT RECORDS and running the record shop of the same name.
Their appeal lies in a catalogue of rugged, deeply affecting songs that embody alternative rock.
Their unique, conviction-driven approach to activity is also one of the reasons they continue to captivate so many fans.
summer festivalJITTERIN’JINN
For those who listened to a lot of rock bands in the ’90s, when you hear “a band from Nara Prefecture,” you just can’t leave them out! Many people probably also remember their appearance on Ikaten.
For those born in the 2000s, many might think “Natsu Matsuri” is Whiteberry’s song, but it was originally performed by JITTERIN’JINN! Besides that track, they’re a legendary band that churned out numerous hits back then, like Present and Nichiyoubi (Sunday).
I’ll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma
Thelma Aoyama’s popularity skyrocketed after SoulJa’s 2007 track “Koko ni Iru yo feat.
Thelma Aoyama,” and her signature 2008 release “Soba ni Iru ne” was a massive hit, holding the record for most ringtone downloads.
In recent years, she’s also been appearing frequently on variety shows! It might not be widely known, but she lived in Nara Prefecture until sixth grade, before moving to the United States.
Her beautiful, mature-sounding voice is truly captivating!
Playing hard to get means you actually like them!Supira Supika
They originally formed in Nara Prefecture and performed under the band name Snowman, but in 2018 they changed their name to Spira Spica and made their major-label debut.
Their major debut single became the theme song for Gundam Build Divers, and since then they’ve handled several other anime theme songs, so anime song fans may already know them! Their greatest charm is, without a doubt, the beautiful singing voice of vocalist Mikiha.
While their catchy, upbeat tracks are great, their calmer songs—where you can fully savor her voice—are wonderful too, so definitely give them a listen!
Tell Me WhySunrise In My Attache Case
Sunrise In My Attache Case is a rock band from Nara Prefecture, formed in Canada.
In 2016, they won Red Bull Live on the Road, which propelled them into the spotlight, and they now perform at outdoor festivals across the country.
Their sound, reminiscent of surf music, is strikingly fresh and polished—so much so that you might not even guess they’re a Japanese band—and it’s sure to get your heart racing.
In contrast to the breezy image of their songs, their live performances are packed with energy and are not to be missed!