Artists from Yamanashi Prefecture: A roundup of talented bands and singers

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

Spotlight on Bands and Artists from Yamanashi!Yamanashi is a region that has produced many beloved artists across generations, including Toshihiko Tahara, Shinichi Mori, and Remioromen.In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of artists from Yamanashi—from well-known bands and singers to locally rooted singer-songwriters, and even groups whose popularity is rapidly rising.Along with their profiles, we also highlight their signature songs, so take this opportunity to give them a listen!

[Artists from Yamanashi Prefecture] A roundup introduction to talented bands and singers (21–30)

Daisy RainyJIJIM

JIJIM – Daisy Rainy (Music Video)

Daisy RainyJIJIM

JIJIM is a band active mainly around members from Yamanashi Prefecture.

While rooted in rock, their appeal lies in a musical style that blends a variety of genres, including pop and jazz.

They began activities in May 2022 and released their first album, “Root Beer!!!,” in June 2023.

They’re known for tracks like “Karasu Flight,” which earned power-play rotation on more than 10 radio stations nationwide, and “Stand By You,” provided for a commemorative film by Tsuru University.

They also unify all song titles in katakana—a deliberate choice meant to let listeners enjoy free interpretation.

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Rainbow RoadKOTA

KOTA – Rainbow Road

Rainbow RoadKOTA

KOTA, a native of Fujiyoshida City in Yamanashi Prefecture, delivers mellow music where R&B and J-pop blend seamlessly, with his hometown and Tokyo as his main stages.

After capturing listeners’ hearts on TikTok, he topped Spotify’s Viral Chart.

This movement seems to prove that music can reach the whole country even from outside major cities—it’s pretty inspiring, isn’t it? He also has other compelling releases, like the popular track “Love is drugs” and his debut 2022 album B.E.C.

His smooth vocals and down-to-earth lyrics create a world that’s perfect for a chill mood.

Highly recommended if you enjoy R&B that cherishes the nuances of the Japanese language.

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[Artists from Yamanashi Prefecture] A roundup introducing talented bands and singers (31–40)

never wake upwarcry

warcry/Can't Wake Up [Official Music Video]

never wake upwarcry

Warcry is a new-generation four-piece rock band that rose to prominence based out of KAZOO HALL, a live house in their hometown of Kofu.

They began activities in April 2022, and—as their tagline “drowning out the blues” suggests—they deliver driving, fast-paced guitar rock.

In 2024, they successfully completed a 12-date national release tour in support of their first EP.

Tracks like the digital single “Nettaiya” (Tropical Night) and “20-go yori” (Route 20), named after a national highway, feature down-to-earth lyrics that capture everyday scenes and anxieties, resonating strongly with younger listeners.

They’re a band for anyone who wants to feel the heat of the live house, or blow away a sentimental mood.

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dateSaitō Sōma

Soma Saito 'Date' Music Video

dateSaitō Sōma

Soma Saito, who hails from Yamanashi Prefecture, is also making major waves as a voice actor.

He’s well-known for roles like Tenn Kujo in Idolish7.

He made his debut as a recording artist in 2017 with the single “Fish Story.” Centered on J-pop while incorporating alternative elements such as UK rock, he has carved out a distinctive position with his musical style.

His talent is the real deal—he won the Singing Award at the 16th Seiyu Awards in 2021—and his versatility is impressive, as he writes and composes his own songs.

With a delicate, sweet voice and a literary sensibility, he appeals not only to voice-acting fans but also to listeners who enjoy introspective music.

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All up to UHosoda Ramu

1st Demo “All up to U” Ramu Hosoda

All up to UHosoda Ramu

Singer Ramu Hosoda, originally from Yamanashi Prefecture.

She studied singing and dance from a young age at Avex’s training school and is a skilled performer who incorporates elements of rock and R&B.

From 2006 to 2009, she appeared on NHK Educational TV’s “Tensai TV-kun MAX” as a TV Warrior, gaining nationwide popularity.

Early in her career, in 2004, she won the Grand Prix at “a-motion 2004,” proving her talent from an early stage.

After going independent, she has focused mainly on live performances.

She’s an artist you should definitely keep an eye on if you want to experience assured vocal ability and sharp dance performance.

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Song of YouthFIVE PEACE

FIVE PEACE – Youth Song (official music video)

Song of YouthFIVE PEACE

FIVE PEACE is a rock band based in Kofu, Yamanashi Prefecture.

Since forming in 2011, they’ve upheld the belief of “not moving to Tokyo,” aiming to reach a nationwide audience from their hometown.

Their music blends the straightforward power of J-rock with catchy, kayōkyoku-style melodies.

They’re also active in community-rooted initiatives, such as hosting their own festival, PEACE FES.

In the music video released in 2023, many students from Tachibana Gakuen—where the members also teach—took part, resulting in a work brimming with youthful energy.

Their high-intensity performances and earnest Japanese lyrics are sure to resonate with more than just rock fans.

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Rain in the heart.Nagata Anna (Aida Anna)

Rain in the Heart. MV (30-second ver.)

Rain in the heart.Nagata Anna (Aida Anna)

Anna Aida is a female singer-songwriter from Yamanashi Prefecture.

She has been active as a skilled singer, including being selected as one of the ten finalists in the CROOZ blog-sponsored “Asian Diva Audition.” She is known for a powerful vocal presence that belies her height of 149 cm.

After passing an audition in 2017, she ended her activities as Anna Aida and began performing as Anna Nagata, joining the mature-style idol group DREAMING MONSTER.

Her member color is red, and she is the youngest in the group.

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