Makes you want to play it! Japanese rock with the coolest guitar riffs
For guitarists, the spotlight—the very face of a song—is the guitar riff.
Songs with riffs that symbolize the track really stick in your memory, and many classic hits in the rock scene come hand in hand with amazing riffs!
In this article, we’ve rounded up a bunch of songs with killer guitar riffs.
Just listening to cool riffs is enough to get your blood pumping, but if you’re a guitarist, why not pick up your guitar and try playing along?
There aren’t just single-note phrases—there are riffs built around power chords and octaves too, so try tackling all kinds of riffs from different songs!
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Makes you want to play it! Japanese rock songs with the coolest guitar riffs (1–10)
kamikazeNoGoD
A track defined by its striking guitar riff.
Amid a fierce heavy metal sound, the vocals challenge you with a provocative edge.
The lyrics convey a strong will to face adversity.
Released in July 2011, this is NoGoD’s third major-label single.
Its powerful message and driving sound are compelling, making it a staple at live shows.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you feel close to giving up or want to fire yourself up.
A piece that fully showcases NoGoD’s musicality.
ROSIERLUNA SEA
It was in July 1994 that a classic bursting with the allure of a guitar riff was born.
Released by LUNA SEA, this work is a masterpiece that portrays the struggle to seek the meaning of existence against the backdrop of a hopeless city.
A phrase symbolizing pure love, together with the weighty music, shakes the listener’s heart.
In the version included on the album MOTHER, the track closes with striking spoken lines and guitar noise, revealing meticulous attention to detail.
The determination to keep looking forward despite loneliness and despair is sure to resonate with rock fans.
It’s a song that speaks to a weary heart—perfect for a nighttime drive.
Her “Modern…”GLAY
Characterized by its intense tempo and exhilarating sense of speed, this track is one of GLAY’s signature early songs.
Released in November 1994 as their third single, it has become a fan favorite that’s frequently performed live.
It’s included on the albums “Hai to Diamond” and “SPEED POP,” and a re-recorded version was released with the 2010 single “Precious.” The lyrics sharply depict the daily life and emotional fluctuations of a woman living in the city, expressing the loneliness and conflicts over love that many people face today.
Paired with its energetic sound, it’s a song that powerfully moves listeners.
Highly recommended if you’re looking to get fired up at a live show.
Makes You Want to Play! Japanese Rock Songs with the Coolest Guitar Riffs (11–20)
GOING TO THE MOONTRICERATOPS
A TRICERATOPS track distinguished by its exhilarating, fast-paced guitar intro.
Its powerful rock sound and heartfelt lyrics are captivating.
Centered on themes of personal identity and the challenge of facing the future, the song gives listeners courage.
Released in May 1999 as their eighth single, it was also featured in a Pocari Sweat commercial that same year.
The song is included on the album “A FILM ABOUT THE BLUES.” This work is recommended for anyone who wants to keep moving toward their dreams and goals.
It’s guaranteed to get the crowd going live, so be sure to enjoy it together with everyone if you attend a TRICERATOPS concert.
Pixels of EmotionOkazaki Taiiku
Singer-songwriter Taiiku Okazaki has continued to showcase his multifaceted talents since his debut, working as a producer, engineer, and actor.
Featured on his second album, “XXL,” this track was selected as the opening theme for the music program COUNT DOWN TV in June 2017.
Characterized by its loud sound design and unique lyrics, it also garnered attention for its music video, which highlights intense performance scenes with a band.
This song fully embodies Okazaki’s hallmark style of sharply observing the humor hidden in everyday life and elevating it into music.
A recommended number for rock fans, it shines with his musical approach that seeks dialogue with listeners.
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA
This is the 15th single by female singer LiSA, written as the opening theme for a television anime that became a massive hit and social phenomenon.
Boosted by the anime’s popularity, the song became so big that from 2019 to 2020 there was hardly a day you didn’t hear it.
Its powerful guitar riff and driving beat are striking, perfectly capturing the anime’s world.
The lyrics carry a strong, empowering message that gives listeners courage.
Guitarists, why not take on this cool riff yourself?
Mosquito Bite[Alexandros]
![Mosquito Bite[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/hNHbnRVolPo/sddefault.jpg)
When it comes to rock tunes with striking guitar riffs, you can’t leave out songs by [Alexandros].
Chosen as the theme song for the film “BLEACH,” this track is characterized by powerful guitar sounds and a melodic chorus.
As Yohei Kawakami commented, “We’ve completed the ultimate rock song,” it stands as a work the band is truly proud of.
Released in July 2018 as their 17th single, a collaborative video with the movie was also unveiled.
Its driving rhythm and exhilarating sound make it perfect for road trips or workouts.
Guitarists, why not try playing along?