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 (11–20)
ibizaSawagi
A four-piece instrumental band whose decision to choose South Africa as the destination for their first tour hints at their star quality.
Sawagi’s signature hit “ibiza” is a song that truly embodies music unbound by borders.
Symphonic Suite ‘Dragon Quest’sugiyama kouichi
The theme song of the hugely popular game Dragon Quest.
It’s a piece of game music that any Japanese person has likely heard somewhere.
Its grand, majestic sound foreshadows an epic adventure and is sure to captivate even those unfamiliar with classical music.
The CosmosYOUR SONG IS GOOD
A band that has been influenced by a variety of music since its formation, continuously evolving by absorbing those sounds.
The track that embodies YOUR SONG IS GOOD, which ultimately settled into dance music, is The Cosmos.
typhoon→Pia-no-jaC←
A duo consisting of cajón and piano, →Pia-no-jaC←.
Their musical style, which weaves together elements from classical, jazz, and more, is also known as “hybrid instrumental.” They’re captivating for their beautiful, delicate sound.
Their music is easy to listen to even for beginners, so be sure to give it a try.
ENGAWA DE DANCEHALLneco nemuru
An instrumental band that openly states they were influenced by the Kansai “Zero Generation” music scene they experienced firsthand.
Known for their catchy songs and comedic presence in music videos and on stage, their representative track from their first album is “ENGAWA DE DANCEHALL.”
Amachan Opening ThemeŌtomo Yoshihide
This piece is by noise musician Yoshihide Otomo, who shot to fame with this track.
Although he’s from Fukushima Prefecture and reportedly didn’t like music in the style of ondō (traditional Japanese dance tunes), the theme for the morning drama series “Amachan” was said to be inspired by the very ondō music he once disliked.
Masterpieces of Japanese instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks (21–30)
sunjizue
A four-piece instrumental band from Kyoto.
Their powerful yet beautiful melodies feature a variety of elements, including jazz and rock.
Their performance skills are exceptionally high, so once you start listening, you’ll be drawn straight into their world.
With a female member in the lineup, the music also carries a sense of delicacy.