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[2026] A roundup of artists, singers, and bands from Hyogo Prefecture

Who comes to mind when you think of artists from Hyogo Prefecture?

These days, many people might think of Aimyon, who’s from Nishinomiya.

Kobe is also a city that attracts many people, so there are plenty of rock bands either from Kobe or based there.

In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of bands, singers, and musicians from Hyogo Prefecture all at once!

You might even discover for the first time, after reading this article, “I didn’t know this person was from Hyogo!!”

We’ve picked broadly across genres and eras, so please take your time and enjoy.

[2026] Compilation of Artists, Singers, and Bands from Hyogo Prefecture (101–110)

Urbangarde

Double Suicide in One PieceHamasaki Yoko

[MV] URBANGARDE “One-Piece Double Suicide”
Double Suicide in One PieceHamasaki Yoko

As a leading avant-garde artist from Hyogo Prefecture, Yoko Hamasaki—the vocalist of URBANGARDE—stands out with an exceptional presence.

She began performing as a chanson singer in her teens and joined URBANGARDE in 2007.

Establishing the unique genre of “Trauma Technopop,” she brought a fresh breeze to the music scene.

In her solo work, she has released albums such as Film Noir, Blue Forest, and BLIND LOVE, captivating a wide range of listeners with styles spanning from electronica to synth-pop.

Her activities extend beyond music into literature and fashion: she published the anthology La Vie en Rose and launched the fashion brand FORGIVE ME, showcasing her multifaceted talent.

She is an artist highly recommended for those drawn to avant-garde expression and delicate sensibilities.

Hamada Mari

Modern Choki Chokies Jungle Weather
Hamada Mari

Mari Hamada is active as an actress and narrator.

She is from Suma Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture.

She is also known as the vocalist of the entertainment band Modern Choki Chokies.

As you might expect from someone whose hobby is free climbing, she has excellent athletic ability.

Ashida Mana

Mana Ashida 'Lovely Sunday ~Gyu Gyu Good Day!'
Ashida Mana

Mana Ashida, who is active as a singer and child actress, is from Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture.

The video “Suteki na Nichiyoubi ~Gyu Gyu Good Day~” was released as her solo debut single.

It is a tie-in song for Seven & i Holdings’ “Autumn Outing Fair.”

I love TokyoHanami Zakura Kouki

[Kayōkyoku] Hanamizakura Kōki “I Love Tokyo” to be released on February 18
I love TokyoHanami Zakura Kouki

After making his mark as the vocalist of D=OUT, a visual kei band hailing from Hyogo Prefecture, Koki Hanamizakura ventured into the world of enka and kayokyoku.

He made his solo debut in 2021 and has been gaining attention for his unique musical style that skillfully fuses the seemingly opposite genres of visual kei and enka.

In 2022, together with Tsukasa Mogamigawa and Masatsugu Mira, he formed Saibi O-Zensen, the world’s first “2.5D” enka/kayokyoku group, bringing a fresh breeze to the enka scene with innovative staging and performances.

His shows, highlighted by bold makeup and costumes, appeal not only to traditional enka fans but also to younger listeners.

As a trailblazer expanding the possibilities of music, his ongoing pursuit of a new form of enka is perfect for music fans interested in the fusion of tradition and modernity.

JUSTY-NASTY

JEALOUSYFujisaki Ken’ichi

Kenichi Fujisaki, a heavyweight of visual kei rock who took flight from Kawanishi City, Hyogo, has continued to express a wide range of genres—from hard rock and glam rock to punk—through his own unique worldview.

Formed in 1987, JUSTY-NASTY captivated many fans with powerful vocals and poetic lyrics, and quickly rose to prominence after their major debut in 1989.

He went on to be active in multiple bands and launched a solo career in 2001, releasing a diverse body of work such as the albums “SEEKING SOUL” and “Ryūsei Graffiti.” In 2015, he revived JUSTY-NASTY, delivering a forceful sound that could be called a return to his roots.

He is an artist highly recommended for music fans seeking a distinctive worldview and melodious songs.

[2026] A roundup of artists, singers, and bands from Hyogo Prefecture (111–120)

Odotte Bakari no Kuni

Odotte Bakari no Kuni “Cycling Road” Music Video (2018)
Odotte Bakari no Kuni

Formed in Kobe in 2008, Odottebakarinokuni has been energetically expanding their fanbase across Japan.

It might sound like a song title at first, but it’s actually the band’s name.

In 2018, they released their fifth album, “Kimi no Tame ni Ikite Ikune” (“I’ll Keep Living for You”).

Their distinct laid-back vibe is part of their charm—once you listen, you won’t be able to get enough.

Tokyo isKadokawa Sarasa

Sarasa Kadowaki “Tokyo wa” Music Video
Tokyo isKadokawa Sarasa

Sarasa Kadowaki, a singer-songwriter from Himeji City, captures the small moments of everyday life with a translucent voice and meticulous choice of words.

While rooted in pop, she blends in elements of folk and acoustic music to create a distinctive sound.

Since releasing her debut single in 2020, she has steadily showcased her talent, including being selected to perform theme songs for TV dramas.

Having been immersed in music from a young age, she performed at local live venues during high school, reflecting her sincere dedication to her craft.

A multi-talented artist who handles everything from songwriting and composing to performing on her own, she also values connecting with fans through social media.

She’s highly recommended for those drawn to delicate sensibilities and a warm, approachable voice.