[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)
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.
Driver’s HighL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
Released on August 11, 1999, L’Arc~en~Ciel’s “Driver’s High” is surely one of their signature songs.
If you want to hear a sweet yet cool guitar solo, this is the track to pick.
The searing bends in the guitar solo during the interlude are irresistible.
True to its title, the song has a thrilling sense of speed and is perfect as background music for a drive.
Not only the guitar solo, but the intro riff also features a beautiful melodic line that feels great to listen to.
[2026] A Compilation of Japanese Songs/J-Pop with Cool Guitar Solos (31–40)
Present PerfectBAND-MAID
“May” is the lead track from BAND-MAID’s EP SCOOOOOP, released in October 2025.
It’s a song with a dramatic melody and a weighty band sound that tugs at the heart.
The lyrics, which speak to the will to move forward, are a perfect match.
The powerful guitar riffs and delicate vocal sensibility are exquisitely balanced, further deepening their emotional rock expression.
It’s a passionate, powerful rock tune to play when you need the courage to face something or a push to keep going.
Kiss U Dead Or AliveSeikima II
A track by Seikima-II featuring irresistibly crunchy guitar riffs.
In April 2025, it became a major talking point as their first new release in 37 years.
Demon Kakka’s powerful vocals and Jail Ohashi Daikan’s guitar work create a massive sound that conveys the spirit of heavy metal—the very origin of Seikima-II—into the present.
The lyrics, depicting ruinous and perverse love, leave a strong impression, unfolding a dark and passionate worldview.
It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking uncompromising, hard-hitting music.
Re:Re:ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
This is the 22nd single by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, the four-piece rock band affectionately known as Ajikan, which was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Erased.
Following the catchy chorus, the guitar solo shifts in character along with changes in the drum beats, continuing with phrases that harness the song’s momentum.
Without relying on difficult licks, the solo functions as a part of the composition, using a wah pedal to create dynamics and expression.
FIGHTING FISTS, ANGRY SOULHi-STANDARD
Speaking of famous Japanese guitarists, Ken Yokoyama of Hi-STANDARD is definitely one of them.
Hi-STANDARD is a punk band, but their guitar riffs often feature technical phrases, and Ken Yokoyama’s guitar skills really shine in this track as well.
The guitar solo is melodic and catchy enough to hum along to.
It’s a song where the punk-band sense of speed and the pop-style melodic lines are perfectly matched.
Be sure to experience Ken Yokoyama’s guitar technique through this song.
Convergent RaysUnlucky Morpheus
This track is striking for its sound where ultra-virtuosic twin guitars intertwine with a passionate violin—a quintessential symphonic metal number from Unlucky Morpheus.
The sonic landscape combined with Fuki’s piercing high-tone vocals generates an overwhelming sense of speed.
The lyrics convey a strong will and resolve to aim for a single victory, as if holy light converges to one point.
This work will be included on the album “Gate of Heaven,” slated for release in November 2025, and has been chosen as the theme song for the M.League team KADOKAWA Sakuraknights.
Listen to it when you’re striving toward your goals, and it will surely empower you.