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 (1–10)
summer twilightDE DE MOUSE
DE DE MOUSE is the solo project of Daisuke Endo, who holds various titles such as composer and producer.
“summer twilight,” which shares its title with the album released in 2016, is a pop track strongly colored by DE DE MOUSE’s distinctive style.
SummerHisaishi Joe
This is a song famous as the theme for Takeshi Kitano’s film “Kikujiro.” Its refreshing melody and open, airy sound evoke a summer day, making it wonderfully pleasing to the ear.
It’s been used in various TV programs and commercials, so many people have likely heard it.
ONEDEPAPEPE
DEPAPEPE is a duo acoustic guitar instrumental band.
They have released many songs whose simple tones, played on acoustic guitars, resonate deeply with listeners.
“ONE” is also an excellent piece performed with just two guitars.
Masterpieces of Japanese instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks (11–20)
＃1090 〜Thousand Dreams〜Matsumoto Takahiro
A track by Takahiro Matsumoto, the guitarist of B’z—the solitary rock unit that has etched its name into Japan’s rock scene.
Many of you may recognize it as the theme song for the music program Music Station.
With its catchy melody, rhythmic cutting, and high-level shredding, it showcases Matsumoto’s guitar technique to the fullest.
Despite being used on the show since 1992, it remains a timeless, landmark guitar instrumental.
rydeenYellow Magic Orchestra
A music unit that focused on techno from its formative years—when the genre was just beginning to gain global recognition—and transmitted it as a culture from Japan.
While there were parts that felt a bit cheap at first due to technological differences, it was cutting-edge sound for its time.
As the years passed, their tracks evolved, and they are songs that continue to live on even now.
TAKUMI / ArtisanMatsutani Taku
This piece, TAKUMI/Takumi, by pianist and composer Taku Matsutani from Shizuoka Prefecture—when you see the title you might think, “Takumi?” and give it a listen… and yes, it sounds familiar, doesn’t it? That’s right: this is the song widely known across generations as music from the hugely popular TV show ‘Before-After’ (Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Japan).
The opening theme, Inscrutable Battle, is also one of Matsutani’s works.
Within the program, this track plays after the home is completed; it has a calm atmosphere and is a soothing piece.
Theme of Jonetsu TairikuHakasé Tarō
This is the main theme of the program “Jounetsu Tairiku,” which shines a spotlight on the lives of people active in various fields.
Its melody conveys the passion and feelings within each person, expressed through a Latin-like fiery beat and the soaring tone of the violin.
It’s one of Taro Hakase’s signature pieces that you hear in many places, isn’t it?