Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
When you think of Japanese rock bands from the 2000s, which bands come to mind?
You might think of the quintessential guitar rock bands like BUMP OF CHICKEN, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, ELLEGARDEN, and Fujifabric, or the bands that supported the early-2000s youth punk movement such as 175R and Gagaga SP.
There were also many bands that became widely known beyond rock fans, like Tokyo Jihen, ORANGE RANGE, and HY, so I’m sure each listener has their own bands that pop into mind.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide selection of signature tracks and recommended favorites from rock bands that were active in the 2000s.
We’ve picked everything from nostalgic tunes to timeless staples that are still going strong today, so take this opportunity to give them a careful listen once again.
- A roundup of nostalgic bands recommended for men in their 30s [’90s & ’00s]
- [Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by V-kei bands from the 2000s
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- 2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
- A compilation of cool Japanese rock band songs. Recommended tracks for cover bands.
- Cool band: A rock band that represents Japan
- Band Rankings Popular Among People in Their 40s [2026]
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- Girls’ rock: female vocal bands that were active in the 2000s
- From emotional tracks to exhilarating tunes! Heisei-era youth songs
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days
Masterpieces by Japanese Rock Bands from the 2000s [J-Rock] (61–70)
One Night CarnivalKishidan
Kishidan’s “One Night Carnival,” which became a social phenomenon with its distinctive dance performed in long school coats, was first released independently in 2001 and sold about 80,000 copies.
It was then released as their major-label debut single in 2002, reaching No.
7 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
It’s a fast-paced rock tune, and its chants and choreography make it a popular choice for karaoke.
In 2022, a tribute album titled “All Night Carnival,” featuring various artists covering “One Night Carnival,” was released.
C7GO!GO!7188
Released in October 2001, this song by GO!GO!7188 is packed with the band’s unique charm.
While influenced by surf rock and punk, its melody carries a distinctly Japanese sensibility.
The lyrics capture the delicate emotions of a woman in her early twenties—breakups and reunions with a lover, the conflicts of being alone.
It’s also striking that the song depicts her picking up a guitar, imitating the person she has feelings for—a poignant image many listeners have surely related to.
It’s a must-listen for anyone grappling with the complexities of love.
Way of DifferenceGLAY
GLAY is a rock band that took the world by storm as a visual kei act.
“Way of Difference,” released in 2002, was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s romance reality show Ainori.
It’s a standout track that lets you experience a gentler side of their rock, a stark contrast to their usual intensity.
Pay attention to the warm, tender vocals and the sounds of the guitar and bass.
The lyrics, which trace a journey from meeting to parting, unfold with such calm that even farewell feels cherished.
Red tambourineBLANKEY JET CITY
A quintessential 90s love song that symbolically captures pure feelings and passion for the one you love.
Released by BLANKEY JET CITY in January 1998, this track weaves a unique tapestry of metaphors to explore what love truly is.
The protagonist wishes to gift a shooting star to their beloved, and the way their heart quivers in everyday, ordinary moments is vividly portrayed, resonating with the bittersweetness of love that anyone can relate to.
Included on the album “Romeo no Shinzō” (Heart of Romeo) and used as the opening theme for TV Asahi’s “Sunday Jungle,” the song reached No.
11 on the Oricon Singles Chart for the week.
It’s a heartwarming piece with melodies and lyrics perfect for healing the wounds of heartbreak or reaffirming feelings for someone special.
red flowerBUBBLEGUM
This is a song by BUBBLEGUM, a band formed by three childhood friends from Ishigaki City in Okinawa Prefecture.
It was released in July 2006 as their major-label debut single.
The bittersweet feelings of longing for someone important are expressed through a pure, clear vocal.
The sentimental guitar rock sound also matches the message perfectly.
When you’re working hard away from your hometown or suddenly remember old friends, listening to it will surely wrap you in a warm feeling.
Surprise SunThee 50’s high teens
This is a thrilling rock track from the debut album by Thee 50’s High Teens, a girls’ garage band out of Fukuoka.
It perfectly blends the raw energy of ’60s garage punk with irresistibly singable, kayōkyoku-style melodies.
Riding on a chic organ tone, they belt out the excitement of an unpredictable future with power and verve.
The song appears on the album “Thee 50’s High Teens,” released in September 2003.
When you’re stuck and weighed down by worries, the song’s boundless brightness will give you a helpful push forward.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
This is a heartwarming song that leaves an impression with its theme of youthful memories and friendship.
It sings of parting from friends and the hope of reunion, with feelings woven in a secret place carried by a beautiful melody.
ZONE’s charming harmonies and vocals that convey hope even within a sense of melancholy make this a moving piece.
Released as their third single in August 2001, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama-30 series “Kids War 3: Zakenna yo” and reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The song also won the Best New Artist Award at the 34th Japan Cable Awards.
It’s an approachable track for beginners in rock to practice, so definitely give it a try!