[2026] Japanese female artists. Trending singers & idols.
What kind of music do you usually listen to?
There are many genres in Japanese music, and I’m sure some of you enjoy listening to songs by female artists.
These days, thanks to subscription services, you can instantly listen to plenty of songs—including any that catch your interest!
In this article, we’ll introduce female artists from Japan, both new and old, including trending singers and idols.
If you find a vocalist you like, be sure to check out their other songs too!
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[2026] Japanese female artists. Buzz-worthy singers & idols (41–50)
Threads of the Sea of TreesCocco
A female singer-songwriter from Okinawa who has continued to assert a singular presence with a remarkably wide musical range—from loud, hard-hitting sounds to catchy pop melodies.
In particular, the madness-tinged lyrical world of her early work likely shocked many listeners.
Beyond music, her activities as an actor and picture book author, as well as her efforts to clean up the seas of her Okinawan hometown, showcase the breadth of her influence—one of her many charms.
She remains a solitary, singular artist who continues to expand her expressive scope.
ECHOLittle Glee Monster
If we’re introducing recommended female artists of the Reiwa era, we can’t leave these women out! Little Glee Monster, a female vocal group, has enjoyed strong popularity—especially among younger listeners—since their major debut in 2014.
Their greatest charm is, without a doubt, their layered harmonies.
The way the five members divide into parts and blend their voices is beautiful—truly goosebump-inducing! They also feature a wide range of songs, from gentle ballads to bright, poppy tracks, and even cool, edgy numbers.
If you’re curious, be sure to check out a variety of their songs!
Swaying feelingsZARD
A music unit formed around Izumi Sakai that produced numerous signature and hit songs.
Among the Being-affiliated artists who dominated the J-POP scene in the 1990s, they were especially known for their high popularity thanks to their female vocalist lineup.
Their distinctive yet unadorned singing voice, paired with catchy tunes, captivated a wide range of listeners.
Although the group effectively disbanded following Izumi Sakai’s sudden passing in 2007, their songs continue to be loved to this day.
I’m crazy about youUtada Hikaru
Hikaru Utada was born into a musical family and raised in New York.
With her 1998 debut single “Automatic/time will tell,” she sparked an R&B boom in the Japanese music scene.
Her arrival helped popularize a vocal style that set Japanese lyrics to a 16-beat groove.
The following year, her first album “First Love” set a domestic record with about 7.65 million copies sold and won the Japan Gold Disc Award, demonstrating her immense influence.
While R&B forms the core of her sound, she incorporates elements like electronica, resulting in a diverse musicality.
Yet across all her songs, there’s an underlying rhythm that invites a pleasant sway of the body.
Experience that feeling where words and beat become one.
Highschool ♡ loveE-girls
E-girls was a female dance and vocal group that was active in the 2010s, formed by bringing together three female groups—Dream, Happiness, and Flower—affiliated with the entertainment agency LDH.
They debuted in 2011 with the single “Celebration!” and are known for signature songs like “Follow Me” and “The North Wind and the Sun.” They also served as an opening act for EXILE, who are under the same agency, and are renowned for their dance and stage performances.
Unfortunately, they disbanded in 2020, but I definitely recommend giving their music a listen even now!
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
Yo Hitoto made her debut in 2002 with “Morainaki,” and “Hanamizuki,” released in 2004, was also a huge hit.
At the time, her natural presence—singing barefoot on stage—and the expansive voice flowing from her slender frame were striking, weren’t they? Her lyrical worldview is unique as well; she is said to perceive her own songs as spatial figures and describes herself as “swimming within the sound.” She expresses feelings as if rising from deep within her heart in poetic prose and sings them with passion.
Perhaps it’s that stance that makes everyone relate to her and keep paying attention.
seesawtuki.
Singer-songwriter tuki., whose transparent vocals and delicate singing technique are bringing a fresh breeze to the music scene.
They began their music career in 2022 and have gained popularity through posts on YouTube and TikTok.
While rooted in J-pop, they have built a unique world with simple yet powerful melodies and striking lyrics.
Their mysterious style of performing without revealing their face has also drawn attention, and in December 2023, a collaboration with popular singer Yuuri surpassed 20 million views—an impressive achievement.
In January 2024, they appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and were also selected for Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2024,” marking them as a shining, highly skilled young artist of the moment.
With clear vocals and songs that resonate with the heart, they’re especially recommended for those who want to soothe their soul on a quiet night.