One of the cultures Japan is proud to share with the world! Recommended visual kei bands
Said to have originated from X JAPAN’s BLUE BLOOD album tagline, “PSYCHEDELIC VIOLENCE CRIME OF VISUAL SHOCK,” visual kei has now become a hallmark of Japanese culture.
As it’s defined not as a specific sound, but as a way of building a worldview and aesthetic through visual expression—makeup, fashion, and more—the musical styles vary widely from band to band.
This time, we’ll introduce visual kei bands spanning a wide range of eras.
Whether you’re new to the genre or a longtime fan, we’ve got recommendations you’ll want to check out!
- A classic masterpiece of visual kei. A staple and popular song representing V-kei rock.
- [Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by V-kei bands from the 2000s
- [2026] A roundup of popular Japanese hard rock bands, including those famous overseas
- A collection of hit songs and classics that opened the door to 1990s Visual Kei
- Reunion wanted: the legendary band that disbanded to much regret
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- Today's Recommended J-POP: A Collection of Japanese Hit Songs You’ll Want to Listen to Today
- High School Students’ Favorite Band Songs Ranking [2026]
- Debut song of a 90s visual kei band
- Debut song of an 80s visual-kei band
- Masterpieces and Popular Songs of X JAPAN
- X Japan Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Classic Japanese metal songs. Recommended popular tracks.
One of the cultures Japan proudly shares with the world! Recommended Visual Kei Bands (91–100)
Ghost labyrinthREIGN
They’re a band with a cool arrangement that evokes medieval Europe, and their lyrics are peppered with striking words that, once you hear them, inexplicably stick with you.
In this track, the vocals are layered like a large chorus, which further enhances the eerie atmosphere.
Wishthe LOTUS
When I first listened to this song, I felt it had a driving energy, yet it was also wistful in a way that lifts you up.
This band has only been together for about three years, but I heard this song at an event live they held this March, and it was truly great—I’m really hoping they keep pushing forward.
This world is over.Kodomodoragon
They’re a visual kei band whose vividly colorful costumes and makeup make a big impact.
While the bright colors give a cute first impression, their songs are hard-hitting rock, and the tracks often shift abruptly in style, making them a band with many interesting facets.
The Path of RepentanceDauto
When I first heard it, I thought it was a very easy-to-listen-to, wonderful song.
I really love the music video for this track, and since it was released in May, it feels like a song that blows away the May blues.
When I heard the news that the drummer at the time was leaving, I joined that year’s tour.
I’d never cried that much at a live show before, but I’m truly glad I was able to be there.
Now a new drummer has joined, but I still want to keep giving my full support to D=OUT as they continue to run forward.
BULLETdangan NO LIMIT
This is a highly anticipated visual kei band that was unveiled and began activities in 2014 as the first artist on the newly launched label Riostar Records.
With many catchy songs that are easy to get into at live shows, the band is rapidly gaining fans.
DizzyNIGHTMARE
Formed on January 1, 2000.
They were active mainly in Sendai during their indie days and made their major debut in August 2003.
Known for many catchy melodies that pleasantly stick in your ear, they also had numerous tie-ins.
As of April 2016, the band has been on a temporary hiatus.
In conclusion
How was it? This time, we introduced some recommended visual kei bands.
From well-known mainstream acts to more niche groups, I hope this gives you a broad overview.
Some people might be put off by their looks, but many bands’ appearances are closely linked to their artistic world, so I encourage you to give them a proper listen at least once.