From Fast Picking to Acoustic: Famous Japanese Guitarists
When people talk about famous guitarists, overseas names often come up, but there are plenty of incredible guitarists right here in Japan too!
Some of them are active on the global stage as well.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of Japanese guitarists we can proudly present to the world.
From blazing fast shredders to soulful, emotive players, from crisp cutting to slap techniques—each guitarist has their own unique charm.
Be sure to find your new favorite!
Get ready to meet a lot of super cool guitarists!
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[From shredding to acoustic] Famous Japanese guitarists (11–20)
Melody of a Small LoveKitsutaka Fumihiko (Kinniku Shoujo-tai)
Guitarist Fumihiko Kitsutaka, who has attracted attention for his fast playing since his amateur days.
Known as the guitarist of Musenkin Shōjo-tai (Kinniku Shōjo-tai), he is also active in a wide range of projects such as X.Y.Z.→A and Kenji Ohtsuki & Fumihiko Kitsutaka.
While his core is a style steeped in classical metal aesthetics, his ability to adapt fluidly to each song demonstrates a refined musical sensibility and a deep, layered background.
With his glamorous looks adding to his presence, he is one of the legendary guitarists in the rock world.
SmokyChar
He can be considered one of Japan’s leading guitarists.
He picked up the guitar at eight, and by his junior high school years he was already participating in recording sessions as a studio musician.
He has played in bands such as SMOKY MEDICINE, PINKCLOUD, and PSYCHEDELIX.
Beyond his formidable technique, his appeal lies in a style that naturally rides the rhythm with phrases born from an imagination that feels anything but typical for a Japanese musician.
brideSakazaki Kōnosuke (THE ALFEE)
Konosuke Sakazaki is the guitarist of THE ALFEE, a three-member rock band that made its major debut in 1974.
Within THE ALFEE, he is known not only for playing acoustic guitar but also for being a versatile musician who performs on instruments other than guitar, such as the mandolin, ukulele, banjo, and sitar.
In live performances, he also serves as the master of ceremonies, and although he is not the current leader, he stands out as a central figure of THE ALFEE.
READY TO FLYKōsaka Masayoshi
A guitarist who represents Japan’s rock and fusion scenes.
With flashy fashion and distinctive guitars, he never forgets to entertain the audience.
While he sometimes features vocalists in his solo work, his fundamental style is to carry the melody on the guitar.
His repertoire is diverse, and his technique is highly regarded worldwide.
Real?MIYAVI
A solo guitarist who is active not only in Japan but also on successful world tours.
Thanks to these achievements, he is nicknamed the “Samurai Guitarist.” He specializes in slap technique without using a pick.
His style is characterized by intensely percussive playing, and in live performances he delivers dazzling shows with advanced technique and refined taste.
Distance of the Starry SkyTakamizawa Toshihiko (THE ALFEE)
Guitarist of the rock band THE ALFEE.
He is also active as a music producer and solo artist.
His nicknames are “Takami” or “Prince.” He frequently uses a distinctive tone characterized by wide and rapid pitch modulation, and his playing features fine, fast arm vibrato.
In his guitar solos, he plays melodic passages using unconventional, irregular phrases.
He is also well known as an enthusiast of uniquely shaped guitars.
From Shredding to Acoustic: Famous Japanese Guitarists (21–30)
Forever LovePATA（XJapan）
The guitarist of X JAPAN, the five-member rock band that Japan is proud to present to the world and that helped popularize the term “visual kei.” When it comes to the band’s guitarists, many people strongly associate the role with HIDE, who passed away suddenly in 1998.
However, it’s well known that PATA is an equally phenomenal guitarist.
In X JAPAN, he effortlessly handles backing phrases in high-speed songs and precisely executes flowing twin-lead shred lines.
Thanks to his advanced technique, he has supported the band’s sound since their debut.