[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 (21–30)
Teenager ForeverKing Gnu
A four-piece eclectic band, King Gnu features members with diverse musical backgrounds and careers.
This track showcases a high level of craftsmanship: despite the rapid shifts in rhythm and mood throughout, it maintains a strong core as a single cohesive piece.
In the guitar solo, the backing employs a challenging rhythm—shuffle beat with the drums accenting on the downbeats—yet the energetic phrases, which capitalize on the song’s atmosphere and tension, feel satisfying.
The interplay with the bass is also excellently constructed.
Girl is GhostSCANDAL
Formed in Kyobashi, Osaka in 2006, SCANDAL was recognized by Guinness World Records in August 2023 as the longest-running all-female rock band with the same members.
Released digitally in January 2026, this track is a rock tune that reflects the ever-evolving story of the band.
It connects the “ghost” imagery in the title with nighttime exhilaration and the impulse for self-renewal, elevating it into a thrilling, danceable sound.
It will resonate with anyone who wants to break through their current situation.
The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT
A song by THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT, a four-piece rock band that featured the late guitarist Abe Futoshi.
Influenced by punk and garage rock, it’s a track where you can fully enjoy Abe’s trademark high-speed cutting.
In the outro guitar solo, he plays noisy phrases with extensive use of double bending, but by reducing the number of notes within the fast rhythm, he actually makes the guitar’s presence stand out even more.
Shibuya hariappa!BUCK∞TICK
The 44th single, which embodies the resolve and challenge of the new lineup, features two tracks: the title song crafted by Hisashi Imai and the coupling track “Kaze no Prologue” by Hidehiko Hoshino.
On the title track, industrial beats intertwine with sequenced patterns, while its repeated phrases continue to resonate like an incantation.
Many listeners will be drawn into a sound that blends a return to roots with bold innovation.
Surrender yourself to its sharp-edged rock.
long-distance relationshipRADWIMPS
A song by RADWIMPS, a four-piece rock band known for their wide-ranging musical activities, including composing for animated films.
It’s a track that sticks in your ears with its irregular structure alternating between 3/4 and 4/4 time and its delay-laden guitar phrases.
While the drum beat is kept restrained, the guitar solo engages in a call-and-response with a slap bass solo.
It’s not flashy, but it preserves the song’s atmosphere and enhances the bass solo’s lines, adding color to the track.
STORMLUNA SEA
A five-member rock band that influenced many visual-kei bands, LUNA SEA, and one of their songs.
Despite having relatively few notes throughout, it shines with LUNA SEA’s signature sense of speed and catchiness.
The melodic, wah-infused guitar solo imparts a floating feel within the driving track, prioritizing the flow and dynamics of the song rather than showcasing the guitar itself.
It’s a track that encapsulates the band’s appeal in a single piece and is counted among their signature songs.
I won’t forget it.kessoku bando
This standout release from December 2022 perfectly blends eye-popping technical playing with a deeply emotional soundscape.
Its array of virtuosic techniques—octave playing, sweep picking, full picking, and more—makes it a must-hear for guitarists.
The exhilarating, fast-paced phrases fuse seamlessly with melodious arrangements, showcasing the band’s full capabilities.
The track was used as the insert song that closes episode 12 of the anime Bocchi the Rock!, heightening the show’s climax.
It also appears in the compilation films Bocchi the Rock! Re: and Re:Re:, and is included on the album Kessoku Band.
Highly recommended for anyone eager to tackle advanced guitar performance or captivated by technical rock sounds.