Masterpieces of Japanese instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.

Amachan Opening ThemeŌtomo Yoshihide

Amachan Opening Theme & March of Action

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.

Tufted puffinHakasé Tarō

Taro Hakase - Etupirka (OFFICIAL)

This is a signature instrumental piece by Taro Hakase, one of Japan’s leading violinists.

Its title comes from an Ainu word meaning “a bird with a beautiful beak,” and its expansive, soaring melody evokes the feeling of freely gliding across the sky, gently setting listeners’ hearts at ease.

Long beloved as the ending theme of the documentary program Jonetsu Tairiku, the piece is also known for the anecdote that it was adopted after staff noticed a track Hakase was composing during the show’s coverage.

With no lyrics to distract, it’s perfect as background music for work.

relivetoconoma

toconoma – relive

A band whose flowing melodies spun by piano and guitar and intricately crafted grooves infused with club music feel oh-so-good.

It’s a track that’s drawing attention from fans for its insanely cool cutting guitar work! Despite their stylish appearance, their playing chops are on another level.

Don’t miss the captivating performance that feels like it transports you to another dimension.

Ghost DanceLITE

LITE “Ghost Dance”

An instrumental band from Japan formed in 2006.

They specialize in the progressive and math rock genres.

In recent years, they’ve incorporated abundant electronic elements into their performances to great acclaim, and their overseas popularity has been rapidly rising—making them a band currently in the spotlight.

HonyararaSAKEROCK

Honyarara

Relaxed, with occasional bursts of sharpness.

It’s a band known for this mysterious addictiveness and the oddly catchy melodies that stick in your head and make you hum along at unexpected moments.

The members include Gen Hoshino and Kenta Hamano, who are also active as actors and solo artists.

Their easy-to-listen-to songs have won popularity among beginners.

PathToe

toe – Path (Live)

toe is a post-rock band formed in 2000.

With a simple lineup of two guitars, bass, and drums, they create enchanting instrumental pieces.

The beautiful guitar tones—fully on display in the track “Path”—are a must-hear.

Loop DaigakuinDJ Kentaro

DJ Kentaro – Loop Daigakuin(Bird’s-eye view Ver.)

Starting as a DJ at the young age of 13, DJ KENTARO became the first-ever world champion from Japan—and indeed from all of Asia—at the DMC World Final in 2002.

The track “Loop Daigakuin” lets you fully experience his masterful turntable skills.

His addictive performance keeps you listening nonstop.