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[Japanese Female Artists] Recommended Songs for Guitar and Vocals [2026]

There have always been many people who, upon picking up a guitar for the first time, start by learning a few easy chords and trying simple strumming-and-singing.

Since the spread of the internet, it’s also become common for people to post “I tried singing” videos with an acoustic guitar, covering famous songs by well-known artists and even using that as a springboard to a debut.

In this article, we’re focusing on “strumming-and-singing,” the timelessly effective way to deliver a song straight to listeners, and introducing J-POP by female artists only—from the latest hits to classic masterpieces—that we’d love you to try performing on guitar.

We’ve also included videos of actual performances, so use them as a reference and enjoy!

[Japanese Female Artists] Recommended Songs for Guitar and Vocals [2026] (11–20)

Become a flowerRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Become a Flower” Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Be a Flower
Become a flowerRyokushokushakai
Become a flower / Ryokuoushoku Shakai [Acoustic Cover]

Rin-ne’s wonderful song, which delicately portrays the emotional journey from bud to blossom, was released in December 2023 as their eighth single and serves as the opening theme for the anime “The Apothecary Diaries.” Despite its simple chord progression, it captivates with a memorable melody and profound lyrics, offering a unique soundscape that blends band instrumentation with traditional Chinese instruments.

It’s a masterpiece that reveals a different charm when performed as an acoustic guitar vocal.

It reached No.

8 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and surpassed 100 million cumulative streams in April 2024.

It’s especially recommended for those who want to try a singer-songwriter style that brings out a different atmosphere from the original or who value expressing their own individuality.

Sketchaimyon

AIMYON – Sketch [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
Sketchaimyon
[Full lyrics with chords] Aimyon “Sketch” Guitar Solo Cover by Misaki Kanazawa – Theme song of “Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Sketchbook Story”

This charming song, with a gentle, heartwarming melody and lyrics that depict the friendship between Nobita and Doraemon, is also perfect for guitar-and-vocal performances.

Showcasing Aimyon’s signature delicate emotional expression and lyrics that capture everyday moments, the track is included on a single slated for release on March 5, 2025, as the theme song for the film “Doraemon: Nobita’s Picture-World Story.” In keeping with the film’s theme of “pictures,” the song portrays friendship from Doraemon’s perspective as he tenderly embraces Nobita’s awkwardness.

Aimyon, a devoted fan of Doraemon herself, poured strong feelings into its creation.

Built on a simple chord progression, the warm arrangement makes it approachable even for first-time guitar players.

Loved by listeners of all ages—from children to adults—it’s an ideal choice for family gatherings and cozy, homey sing-alongs.

To all my ex-girlfriendsKoresawa

Koresawa - To All My Ex-Girlfriends [Lyric Video]
To all my ex-girlfriendsKoresawa
Koresawa “To All My Ex-Girlfriends” [Acoustic Cover]

This song by Koresawa, a singer-songwriter from Osaka, is perfect for anyone wanting to try singing and playing guitar.

She expresses gratitude to past lovers over a sprightly, country-tinged sound.

Released in September 2024, the track showcases Koresawa’s humor and down-to-earth emotional expression.

It’s linked to her “Kore Theater” series of performances, and a nationwide tour has also been announced.

Recommended for those seeking courage to step into a new romance or wanting to embrace past relationships in a positive light.

Even with just a single guitar, its charm comes through—be sure to listen to this heartwarming message song.

I stillmilet

milet “I still” Music Video (Theme song for the film ‘Unknown Girlfriend’)
I stillmilet
[I still/milet] Acoustic cover

An emotionally moving ballad written as the theme song for the film “Shiranai Kanojo,” this track is overflowing with milet’s charm.

Centered on the fragility and permanence of love, its striking title cleverly plays on the English phrase “I’m still” and the Japanese “aishiteru” (I love you).

The lyrics deeply resonate with the film’s story—that hearts remain connected even if the world changes.

The song will be released for digital pre-distribution on January 31, 2025, with a CD single to follow on February 26.

It’s also drawing attention for milet’s new challenge of performing the song herself within the film, in her first-ever role as the heroine.

With its heartfelt lyrics, it’s perfect for a guitar-and-vocal rendition.

Highly recommended for those who want to convey their feelings to a loved one or relive the film’s emotional impact through music.

1/2Kawamoto Makoto

【MV】Makoto Kawamoto “1/2”
1/2Kawamoto Makoto
Makoto Kawamoto “1/2”

This song is characterized by refreshing guitar tones and lyrics that resonate deeply with the heart, fully showcasing Makoto Kawamoto’s charm.

Released in June 1997, it was selected as the opening theme for the anime Rurouni Kenshin and created a huge buzz.

The lyrics symbolically express the depth of love and bonds, leaving a powerful impression on listeners.

Combined with Kawamoto’s distinctive vocal style, it’s a piece that makes you want to try performing it with just voice and guitar.

It’s a song I especially recommend to those feeling the fragility or anxiety of love.

A bouquet with loveSuperfly

Superfly “A Bouquet With Love” Music Video
A bouquet with loveSuperfly
With Love, a Bouquet / Superfly Covered by haru (sang and played acoustic)

A song that expresses deep bonds and gratitude toward family and loved ones was released as a single in February 2008 and is known as the theme song for the TBS drama “Edison no Haha” (Edison’s Mother).

Although it hadn’t been officially released at the time, it had been performed live before Superfly’s debut and was already popular among fans.

Superfly’s powerful vocals and positive message captured the hearts of many, and by 2019 the music video surpassed 100 million views on YouTube.

The song conveys feelings of gratitude and the courage to take a new step forward, and it’s often used at weddings to express thanks to parents.

Even beginner guitarists will find it easy to play thanks to its simple chord progression, and the lyrics are approachable—so why not give it a try?

[Japanese Female Artists] Recommended Songs for Guitar and Vocals [2026] (21–30)

heavy smokenishina

Nishina – Heavy Smoke [Official Video]
heavy smokenishina

A masterpiece of guitar-and-vocal storytelling by nishina that portrays a fleeting crush and a heartrending dependency.

Scenes of earnest unrequited love are woven through her soft yet resolute voice, leaving a deep impression on the listener.

The metaphors that layer heavy expressions of love with a dependence on smoking are exquisite, capturing her fragile, beautiful feelings for the heavy smoker.

Included on the April 2021 album “odds and ends,” this song also drew attention for its one-take performance on YouTube’s THE FIRST TAKE.

With a simple acoustic guitar arrangement, it’s approachable even for beginners.

A song you’ll want to play and sing alone on a quiet night.