[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 (41–50)
Place to tryTOTALFAT
TOTALFAT’s “Place to Try” kicks off with a guitar solo right from the intro.
They’re a band known for their exceptionally high level of musicianship and are very popular.
The song has that melocore-style, high-speed drive, and since the lyrics are in Japanese, it’s easy to listen to.
In the standout guitar solo, there’s a twin-guitar setup with blisteringly fast playing and even harmonized lines.
The phrasing gives off a metal-like vibe that feels really satisfying.
Throughout the track, there are also intricate metal riffs sprinkled in, making it irresistible for guitar lovers.
[2026] A Collection of Japanese Songs/J-POP with Cool Guitar Solos (51–60)
HeavenRei
Rei’s August 2024 track, created by an artist who combines exceptional guitarist skills with singer-songwriter talent, is a work that poses profound questions about the meaning of life and one’s own vision of happiness.
Featured on the album XINGS, the song showcases dazzling guitar work that freely employs a wide range of techniques, including tapping, fingerpicking, and cutting.
Blending a unique soundscape that is pop yet tinged with dark fantasy elements with MONJOE of DATS’s meticulous arrangement, this track is highly recommended for those eager to take on advanced guitar work that artfully incorporates elements of jazz, blues, and rock.
Start Our JourneyHAGANE
HAGANE delivers epic melodic speed metal that captivates with overwhelming performance skills and meticulous arrangements.
Guitarist Sakura’s jaw-dropping virtuosity will leave viewers stunned.
Her blistering playing—deploying every technique from sweep picking and tapping to string skipping—reaches truly godlike levels.
Featured on the album “TOP OF THE TOWER,” this piece was released in December 2024 as a passionately crafted track.
Sakura, who also appeared as a guitarist in Suntory’s Craft Boss commercial, goes beyond sheer technical display; her performance deeply enhances the song’s emotional expression.
A must-listen not only for metal fans but for any music lover fascinated by guitar technique.
CrescendoASTERISM
ASTERISM is an instrumental heavy metal band that continues to astonish the world with overwhelming technique and youthful energy.
Their song released in January 2025 is a high-powered, fast-paced work selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “The Unfavorable Job: Appraiser Was Actually the Strongest.” HAL-CA’s versatile guitar skills shine, packed with blistering techniques like rapid picking, tapping, and sweep picking.
The music video—shot at the foot of Mt.
Fuji in extreme cold at minus 7 degrees Celsius—also showcases their exceptional performance prowess.
This piece is a highly challenging track that demands advanced musicianship, making it perfect for those who want to master guitar technique or explore new possibilities in heavy metal music.
Soul DefenderLOVEBITES
A wake-you-up burst of ultra-technical power metal with the soul of traditional heavy metal running through it.
The godlike guitar work built on blistering twin leads deftly weaves neoclassical elements with fusion-style phrases, packing in every technique under the sun—sweep picking, tapping, even eight-finger runs.
The overwhelming guitar duo of Midori and Miyako has forged a one-of-a-kind style influenced by Yngwie Malmsteen and Timothy Henson.
Featured on the EP “LOVEBITES EP II,” released in August 2024, the track achieved an impressive No.
11 on the Oricon chart.
Its soul-stirring, grand melodies and weighty, battle-forged worldview make it a must-listen not only for power metal devotees but for any music fan captivated by advanced guitar technique.
OblivionSeikima II
Seikima-II’s “Oblivion” is a song that symbolizes the band as they mark their 40th anniversary on Earth.
Released in July 2025, it’s a ballad that fuses the stately, heavyweight heavy metal of the ’80s with a modern sound.
Its profoundly dramatic sonic landscape and vocals are deeply moving.
As you listen closely, be sure to pay attention to the beautiful words woven into the lyrics.
UnchainedLOVEBITES
A powerful track that captures the hearts of die-hard metal fans was unleashed upon the world in July 2024.
With English lyrics themed around freedom and liberation, it resonates strongly with listeners both in Japan and abroad.
This offering from LOVEBITES marks a new musical challenge for the band, adding fresh elements to their established sound.
Symbolizing the band’s evolution, the song takes a bold step into new territory while preserving the essence of heavy metal.
Featuring commanding performances and soaring vocals, it’s a standout not only for metal enthusiasts but also for anyone seeking new music.