Masterpieces of Japanese instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
We’re introducing recommended masterpieces and popular tracks from among Japan’s signature instrumental songs.
Even when we say “instrumental,” there are countless pieces—guitar solos, piano works, bands, jazz—spanning a truly wide range.
Many of you may be unsure where to start listening.
We’ve included plenty of selections, so you’re sure to find a favorite track!
Enjoy a dream playlist performed by superstar players who continue to be loved across generations.
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Masterpieces of Japanese instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks (71–80)
SUPER GO!!!!!BOREDOMS
BOREDOMS, Japan’s representative instrumental noise band.
After releasing ‘SUPER GO!!!!!’, they leaned more heavily into influences like folk and traditional music, achieving a new evolution.
You could say this track marks a rare turning point for BOREDOMS as they become a legendary band.
Street Stars Breakin’DJ TASAKA
DJ TASAKA is also popular as a DJ who drops one irresistible party tune after another.
The track that put his talent on the map is “Street Stars Breakin’.” With his rising profile, he and Kagami, as the unit DiscoTwins, even collaborated with Koji Kikkawa.
SamuraiJazztronik
Led by the multi-talented Ryota Nozaki, Jazztronik is also known for having no fixed members.
A signature track that showcases Jazztronik—whose work is acclaimed not only in the club scene and jazz, but also in composition, arrangement, and classical music—is “Samurai.”
YouAgatsuma Hiromitsu
The shamisen is a popular instrument in Japan.
Hirokazu Agatsuma is expanding its possibilities by fusing it with contemporary music.
Among his works, this piece is particularly original.
While incorporating synthesizers, it remains committed to blending with traditional Japanese elements—and that dedication is what makes this track remarkable.
Le RhôneHattori Katsuhisa
A piece that is popular in Japan as a piano practice song.
It is a work by the renowned composer Katsuhisa Hattori, but I’ve heard that it’s very easy for pianists to play.
Still, its familiar melody is truly unforgettable.
Perhaps its simplicity combined with memorability is what makes it a masterpiece.
SakuraMasa Takumi
Masa Takumi’s “Sakura” is a Japanese-style instrumental track included on the album of the same name, which won at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards.
The piece’s appeal lies in how it skillfully weaves not only quintessentially Japanese instruments like the koto and shamisen, but also more distinctive timbres such as bamboo flute and erhu, creating a one-of-a-kind sonic world.
Percussion with a world-music flavor is also used effectively, delivering a unique sound that goes far beyond a simple Japanese-style instrumental number.
NewsummerboyNATSUMEN
NATUMEN is famous as a band that transcends genre boundaries such as progressive, hardcore, jazz, improvisation, and rock.
The track that best represents them, Newsummerboy, is a song that showcases both intensity and outstanding technical skill.