![[2026] A compilation of Japanese songs/J-pop with cool guitar solos](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/_ciQX22n9NE/maxresdefault.webp)
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)
white noiseOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism, a four-piece piano-pop band that won popularity among a wide range of listeners with the huge success of their second single “Pretender.” Their ninth digital-only single, “White Noise,” was written as the opening theme for the TV anime Tokyo Revengers’ “Christmas Showdown Arc” and “Tenjiku Arc.” The technically demanding guitar solo throughout—featuring extensive tapping—showcases the band’s wide range of musical ideas.
It’s a refreshing pop tune whose driving ensemble and catchy melody linger in your ears.
Guitar, Loneliness, and the Blue Planetkessoku bando
Kessoku Band is a four-member band unit that appears in the TV anime Bocchi the Rock!.
The track Guitar, Loneliness and the Blue Planet from their first album Kessoku Band features a tight guitar riff and a driving beat that really get your energy up.
Despite its brevity, the emotional guitar solo and the depth that follows with the arpeggios make it a song rock guitar fans will want to replay over and over.
With lyrics that evoke memories of youth and tug at the heart, it’s a rock tune that goes beyond the confines of anime.
flying boatKing Gnu
King Gnu is a four-piece rock band that thrills fans with a sound that channels overwhelming instrumental prowess and a vast musical background into J-pop.
Their third digital-only single, “Hikotei,” was selected as the song for ANA’s domestic TV commercial, “People Have Wings.” The aggressive guitar solo, woven with a noisy guitar sound, combines with the track’s atmosphere to raise the listener’s excitement.
Alongside the main riff, there are plenty of guitar highlights—an emotional rock tune through and through.
Silent JealousyX
A song by X, the five-piece rock band also famous for coining the term “visual kei” in Japan.
The entire guitar solo is built from melodious twin-lead phrases, and despite being unusually long for a Japanese band, it remains engaging throughout.
Aside from occasional tapping runs that add a sharp accent, the solo largely unfolds at a measured pace, providing a striking contrast to the metal-style vocals and intense drumming—a superb, jewel-like guitar solo that enhances the song’s overall contrast.
Stratocaster SeasideSuspended 4th
A song by Suspended 4th, the four-piece rock band also known by the abbreviation Sasufo.
No matter which part you focus on, you can enjoy high-level, almost instrumental-band-like performances right from the intro.
The guitar solo features a structure that contrasts tight, fast-paced rhythmic cutting with looser phrases.
While it isn’t the flashy, high-speed shredding often heard in rock bands, it’s a carefully crafted arrangement that preserves the song’s flow, mood, and momentum.
Dreams, Nightmares, and FantasyRyokushokushakai
Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a four-piece pop-rock band that churns out hit songs with powerful vocals and a colorful pop sensibility.
“Yume to Akumu to Fantasy,” included on their 8th single “Hana ni Natte,” was specially written as a commemorative song for ZIP-FM’s 30th anniversary.
The flashy tapped guitar solo further heightens the track’s excitement, and the piano solo is outstanding as well, making this a pop tune you’ll want to listen to not only for the vocals but also for the ensemble.
Warning!BAND-MAID
BAND-MAID is a five-piece rock band that has earned support both in Japan and abroad for the striking contrast between their cute maid outfits and loud sound.
“Warning!”, a track from their major 4th album Unseen World, delivers a burst of speed that makes it a perfect and impactful album opener.
The technically impressive guitar solo—enough to make you forget they’re a so-called girls’ band—blends seamlessly with the ensemble to elevate the song.
With powerful vocals and arrangements, this rock number is sure to captivate longtime rock fans as well.