[2026] A compilation of Japanese songs/J-pop with cool guitar solos
In any era, when it comes to the star players of rock bands, most people would say the guitarist—that’s the common image, isn’t it?
Not only in guitar-centric bands like rock and metal, but across various styles such as pop as well, there are countless classic songs where the guitar solo leaves an impression just as strong as the vocals.
In this article, we’re focusing on those “guitar solos” and have put together a selection of Japanese hits that feature awesome, exhilarating solos.
While there’s been a recent trend claiming that guitar solos are unnecessary, the reality is that many songs still incorporate them.
To prove it, we’ve compiled a lineup packed with recent hits and hidden gems alike.
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[2026] A Collection of Japanese Songs/J-Pop with Cool Guitar Solos (1–10)
ShekiraraChilli Beans.
The three-piece rock band Chilli Beans., whose members all graduated from the Singer-Songwriter course at Music Juku Voice, also drew attention for that background.
“Shekirara,” included on their first album Chilli Beans, is a striking number that opens with a brisk guitar riff.
The guitar solo, woven with a spacious guitar sound, together with the choral work, creates an effect that colors the song despite its simplicity.
It’s an uplifting pop tune with a comfortable ensemble that blends both a sense of speed and a dreamy floating feel.
LOVE ROCKETSThe Birthday
The Birthday is a four-piece rock band formed in 2005 around Yusuke Chiba, known as the frontman of THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT.
Their song LOVE ROCKETS, included on the EP Tsukiyo no Zankyo ep, was chosen as the opening theme for the animated film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK.
The guitar solo carries a classic rock vibe, providing a striking contrast to the gritty vocals—one of the track’s key highlights.
Its very simplicity delivers a lean, powerful rock sound that ramps up the energy—a cool rock tune through and through.
New Treasure IslandSakanakushon
Sakanaction is a five-piece rock band that captivates fans with a near-obsessive dedication to sound—so much so they’re often called “perfectionists”—and with their uniquely original songs.
Their 11th single, Shin-Takarajima, was created as the theme song for the film Bakuman.
The guitar solo, which unfolds as if deconstructing the main theme phrase, asserts its presence without disrupting the song’s flow or atmosphere.
Including its music video, it’s a catchy and impactful hit that showcases Sakanaction’s flair for entertainment.
[2026] A Compilation of Japanese Songs/J-Pop with Cool Guitar Solos (11–20)
I…atarayo
Atarayo is a three-piece band that not only creates music but also self-produces their videos and artwork, with the tagline “a band that grows by feeding on sorrow.” Their 17th digital-only single, “Boku wa…,” was written as the opening theme for season 2 of the TV anime The Dangers in My Heart.
The guitar solo playing beneath the poetry reading, while simple, gains depth through layered harmonies.
It’s a refreshing track whose message-driven lyrics and propulsive ensemble are sure to move you.
Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen
This is the debut single by Tokyo Jihen, a five-piece band re-formed in 2020 around singer-songwriter Ringo Sheena.
The track showcases Sheena’s distinctive vocals, which remain as compelling within the band context, and it also features a standout, hysteric-sounding guitar solo that lingers in the ear.
Rather than relying solely on heavy effects to create a noisy tone, the solo is carefully crafted to preserve the contour of the sound so the guitar’s melody remains clear—asserting itself as another defining face of the song.
I love youCody Rī (Ri)
Formed by members who attended the same university, Cody・Lee (李) is a four-piece rock band active not only in Japan but also overseas.
Their song “Wo Ai Ni,” selected as both the opening and ending theme for ABEMA’s “ABEMA Prime,” drew attention when its music video generated buzz abroad.
The guitar solo, unfolding with phrases that exude an oriental atmosphere, helps shape the song’s world together with its distinctive tone.
Not just the solo, but also the sharp, edgy cutting is cool—this is a track you’ll want to listen to with a focus on the guitar.
We areONE OK ROCK
Among ONE OK ROCK’s songs, the fan favorite “We are” is a masterpiece that sparks massive sing-alongs at live shows.
In this ballad-like track, guitarist Toru’s solo, though brief, makes a powerful impression.
Guitar solos—often a showcase for guitarists—tend to run long, but despite his solid technique, he avoids showiness and instead weaves classic hard rock phrases that highlight the song’s character.
It’s a display of real taste.