RAG MusicGuitar for Beginners
A web magazine to enjoy the guitar even more

[J-Pop] A Collection of Japanese Songs with Difficult/Technical Guitar Parts [2026]

Guitarists who breeze through technical playing… so cool, right?

If you’ve found your way to this article, chances are you’ve been blown away by jaw-dropping tapping, cutting, or sweeping at some point.

This time, we’ve put together a list of Japanese songs with seriously challenging guitar parts.

From power-packed tunes by rock bands to acoustic numbers by solo guitarists, we’ve picked a wide range!

Will you discover that one track that hits you right in the heart?

[Japanese Music] A Compilation of Japanese Songs with Difficult/Technical Guitar Parts [2026] (31–40)

SAMURAI StrangerHaruahata Michiya

Michiya Haruhata “SAMURAI Stranger @ Zepp Nagoya 2016 Live Rehearsal”
SAMURAI StrangerHaruahata Michiya

A piece by Michiya Haruhata, the guitarist of TUBE—the rock band that symbolizes summer in the J-POP scene.

Featured on his 9th album, “Play the Life,” which marked both the 30th anniversary of his solo debut and his 50th birthday, the song moves dramatically from a lyrical opening layered with acoustic guitars.

The fluid guitar solo riding over a dense shuffle-beat ensemble is irresistible for fans of guitar instrumentals.

It’s an emotional instrumental number that reveals a different side of his guitar playing from what he shows in TUBE.

galaxyFujifaburikku

Fujifabric – Galaxy (Ginga)
galaxyFujifaburikku

This is the fourth single by the three-piece rock band Fujifabric, who have continued on with the remaining members even after their central figure, Masahiko Shimura, passed away suddenly in 2009.

It serves as the final chapter in a four-part series of singles themed around the four seasons, and is a memorable number whose intro moves from a dazzling guitar riff into a more lyrical atmosphere.

The delicate yet tight rhythm-guitar cutting in the backing blends seamlessly with the driving sense of the melody.

A groovy guitar solo adds sparkle to the ensemble, making for a comfortable, vocal-forward guitar performance in this rock tune.

In the blue-green eyesAve Mujica

You’ll be captivated by its grand, dramatic worldbuilding.

This work by Ave Mujica, the heavy metal band born from the BanG Dream! project, is set for release in September 2025.

It was selected as the theme song for a collaboration campaign with the smartphone RPG Arknights.

The mighty sound and dreamlike melodies weave a breathtaking atmosphere.

Immerse yourself in its gothic, mysterious vibe.

Side by Side (feat. Char)Hotei Tomoyasu

Tomoyasu Hotei / HOTEI “Side by Side (feat. Char)” [Official Music Video]
Side by Side (feat. Char)Hotei Tomoyasu

An instrumental work that reunites two guitar legends after 19 years.

The thrilling guitar battle between Tomoyasu Hotei and Char sets the heart on edge.

While respecting each other’s styles, they sometimes respond in kind and sometimes elevate one another—their interplay is deeply moving.

Released in March 2025 as a pre-album track for GUITARHYTHM VIII, this piece can be seen as the culmination of the signature series that symbolizes Hotei’s solo career.

A must-listen gem for music fans.

Shangri-laSIAM SHADE

SIAM SHADE V6 – Shangri-la [LIVE]
Shangri-laSIAM SHADE

A song by the five-piece rock band SIAM SHADE, who drew attention thanks to the huge success of their 6th single “1/3 no Junjou na Kanjou.” It’s included on their major 5th album, SIAM SHADE VI, and the intro—opening with a complex irregular meter—creates a striking hook.

Despite being packed with sound, it features everything from melodious, rapid-fire solos to intricate phrases set over odd time signatures, offering technical guitar work that stands up to the song’s overall impact.

Progressive yet pop-tinged, it’s a hidden gem.