Famous choreographers in Japan [the choreographers behind those hit songs and classic tracks]
The expansion of music through choreographers.
These days, in addition to listening to songs, we’re increasingly watching music videos as well.
It’s become an era where dance could be called the mainstream—think of nationally beloved hit songs or K-POP, where dance and the music scene are inseparable.
We’re moved, overwhelmed, and inspired by choreography that weaves in the song’s deeper meaning and showcases a wide range of creative ideas.
In this article, we’ll shine a spotlight on the choreographers behind these iconic tracks!
Let’s dive into their worlds alongside a variety of hit songs!
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Famous Japanese Choreographers [Choreographers Behind Those Hit Songs and Classics] (1–10)
MIKIKO
Speaking of choreographers who are active worldwide—not only with Japanese artists but also by handling the choreography for the performance at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics closing ceremony—MIKIKO comes to mind! It’s said that MIKIKO learned about the profession of choreographer after seeing the backstage of live shows through her father’s work at an advertising agency.
MIKIKO is also famous for choreographing nearly all of Perfume’s songs.
And the catchy, easy-to-copy “Koi Dance” that everyone knows is also her choreography! She is a leading Japanese choreographer who brings the joy of dance to many through catchy routines for a wide range of artists.
ReiNa
Born in 2001, ReiNa was a member of avex ROYALBRATS, the inaugural champion team of the professional dance league D.LEAGUE.
It’s said that offers came in after she posted dance videos on Instagram.
She began dancing at age five and, as a choreographer, has worked with many K-pop artists, including Stray Kids, NCT U, and Red Velvet.
Mentored by RIEHATA, her freestyle background fuels a dynamic, energetic style—keep an eye on that appeal! The cool choreography for NCT U’s smash hit “Make A Wish (Birthday Song)” is also impressive.
She values ease of performance and flow for the artists themselves, and you can really feel that commitment.
Koharu Sugawara
Koharu Sugawara has earned recognition for her unique dance style, leading to appearances in music videos for famous artists and work as a backup dancer.
Since 2014, she has been active as the first female Nike Athlete among dancers and has also pursued a multifaceted career as an actress.
One of her most iconic choreographies is Foorin’s “Paprika.” The distinctive expression she developed while training alone in the United States may be reflected in her choreography, which, like the dance for “Paprika,” is easy to remember and simple enough for children to perform.
Famous Japanese Choreographers [Choreographers Behind Those Hit Songs and Classics] (11–20)
RIKIMARU
RIKIMARU, a dancer and choreographer from Hyogo Prefecture with strikingly handsome features.
He formed the unit “Respect” with his sister, professional dancer and choreographer Yuri Konda, and won Dance Koshien on 24-Hour Television.
He built up a string of achievements in Japanese competitions from a young age and has been active internationally since his youth.
He has even taught stars like ENHYPEN’s NI-KI and Naniwa Danshi.
He has created many choreographies for K-pop artists such as BoA and SHINee, captivating audiences with a stylish yet powerful dance style.
Since 2019 he has been a member of WARPs UP, and in 2021 he placed third on Chuang 2021, the Chinese version of the PRODUCE series that produced groups like IZ*ONE, shining on center stage as a member of INTO1.
akane
One choreographer who highlights the appeal of today’s high-energy entertainment is Akane.
She’s the OG who sparked a frenzy and is known as the creator of the “Bubble Dance” performed by the Osaka Prefectural Toinoike High School Dance Club, which she helped establish herself.
She’s been on a meteoric rise ever since, launching the dance company Akane Kikaku and handling choreography for numerous commercials and dramas.
In 2022, she also appeared as a voice actor in the film Sing 2.
On the music side, she has worked extensively with Last Idol.
With catchy, relatable ideas and flashes of inspiration, her choreography and style draw everyone in and get them involved.
KABA-chan
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that KABA-chan is the choreographer behind many uplifting, iconic songs.
Many people also strongly associate her with a playful image from her appearances on variety shows as a talent.
Inspired by Michael Jackson, KABA-chan originally aimed to become an idol and honed her dance skills through experiences like moving to New York.
She debuted in 1996 as a member of the dance unit dos, produced by Tetsuya Komuro, and has choreographed numerous songs.
You can see her roots in the stylish choreography for Namie Amuro, which is incredibly cool, and her expansive, heart-lightening routines for songs like V6’s “Darling” and SMAP’s “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana” are also truly wonderful.
air:man
air:man is a choreography unit active across a wide range of fields.
They began as a theater troupe formed in 1996, and after some member changes, they settled into their current style as professional choreographers.
Their works include Sakanaction’s “Shin Takara-jima,” which created a huge buzz, and Ikimono-gakari’s live-energy-packed “Joyful.” They’ve handled countless other artists as well, and their choreography—bringing to life each song’s unique world—is especially compelling.
I was surprised to learn that the “Movie Thief” from the cinema etiquette videos is also choreographed by air:man.
Their routines instantly feel familiar and endearing—definitely ones to keep an eye on going forward!