[2026] Japan’s Leading Famous Drummers — From Veterans to Rising Stars
Drummers who underpin Japan’s music scene from the ground up.
They tend to be overshadowed by flashy frontmen, but in truth, they’re the indispensable heartbeat of any band.
From veterans who have stayed at the forefront for years to rising talents making their mark with unique styles, Japan is home to many world-class drummers.
In this article, we dive into the appeal of these Japanese drummers.
You’ll not only find the drummers you already know, but you may also discover new talents you haven’t encountered yet.
Be sure to read to the end!
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[2026] Japan’s Leading Famous Drummers — Introducing Veterans to Rising Stars (51–60)
town/cityAkamatsu Yoshitomo
On Kanjani Eight’s show, there was a segment called “Taiko no Tatsujin,” where they faced off against various drummers, and in the end it was Akamatsu who defeated Okura.
He isn’t a particularly flashy player, but his steady, unwavering performance is truly impressive.
Irreversible replaceMasack
Masack, the drummer of MY FIRST STORY who is active in the loud rock scene.
In addition to the powerful, melodic beats characteristic of loud rock, he plays high-speed fill phrases that make great use of hand-foot combinations—bold and incredibly cool! At the same time, the delicate ghost notes woven between tom runs are exceptionally clean, so be sure to pay attention to the beautiful stick work that shines behind the intense performance.
swimKouhei
KOUHEI, who is making a big splash as the drummer of 04 Limited Sazabys, is one of the top performers among young rock drummers in Japan! Their songs are rooted in melodic hardcore, with GEN’s high-pitched vocals soaring over catchy melodies.
Within that sound, his expressive drumming truly stands out.
From the beats that define a song’s character to the fills in the intros, his playing is full of signature phrases that any drummer would have burned into their memory!
I don’t believe my maternal instinctkaho kissu
Kaho Kiss, the drummer of the globally acclaimed four-piece band Otoboke Beaver, injects fresh energy into the group.
Joining in 2018, Kaho has brought a distinctive drumming style honed through her prior musical activities, playing a crucial role in the band’s rhythm section.
Formed in 2009 within Ritsumeikan University’s music club, Otoboke Beaver has drawn attention with a unique style that fuses punk rock and garage rock.
Since Kaho’s arrival, the band has achieved remarkable milestones, including performing at the renowned international festival SXSW 2019, joining the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ North American tour, and appearing at Glastonbury Festival in 2023.
Keep an eye on the band—and on Kaho’s drumming!
[2026] Japan’s Leading Famous Drummers: Introducing Veterans to Young Talents (61–70)
Heartless ScatNakajima Nobu
Nakajima Nobu, known as the drummer for Ningen Isu—a band that represents Japan’s hard rock scene—joined the group in 2004 and took part in recording the album “San Akudōchū Hiza Kurige.” Blending 1970s-style hard rock influenced by Black Sabbath with uniquely eerie themes, the band has earned popularity for its distinctive sound.
It’s said that Nakajima’s addition significantly enhanced the band’s groove, and his singular sense of rhythm has captivated many fans.
Beyond Ningen Isu, he’s a versatile musician active in multiple bands, including Hana Fubuki and The Yūtarō Band, and his energetic schedule—playing live several times a month—has drawn attention.
He’s a drummer well worth checking out not only for fans of hard rock and metal, but also for anyone interested in distinctive Japanese-language rock.
Wish Upon a StarMukoyama Tetsu
Tetsu Mukaiyama is a drummer who has taken part in numerous artists’ tours.
Among them, he’s especially memorable as a touring member for Cocco.
It seems that only people who are very accustomed to her can go on tour with Cocco, but Tetsu has been touring with her for a long time.
FanfareRINA
RINA, the drummer of SCANDAL, a band that represents Japan’s girl-band scene.
Her sense of rhythm and groove is an indispensable part of the band’s sound.
Formed in 2006 and making their major debut in 2008 with the single “DOLL,” SCANDAL has been supported by RINA’s drumming—powerful yet delicate.
In 2012, they won Best Group Video at MTV VMAJ 2012, earning high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.
RINA’s strengths lie in her ability to choose rhythms that perfectly match the band’s pop and catchy songs, as well as her stability in live performances.
In 2022, they successfully performed at the Tokyo Dome, proving their prowess.
For everyone who loves rock, you should definitely experience RINA’s drumming.