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 (31–40)
AIMSSPECIAL OTHERS
A band that rose to stardom with live, club-style sounds.
These days they have more vocal tracks, but since their debut they’ve consistently delivered high-quality ensemble sound.
Above all, the tone of the Fender Rhodes is beautiful.
sunflowerHakasé Tarō
Taro Hakase, known for the soundtrack of Passion Continent, composed the piece “Himawari,” which—along with his “Manzanka”—is often used as wedding BGM.
Within its relaxed tempo, the expansively resonant violin has the power to move listeners’ hearts.
Rootsindigo jam unit
Indigo jam unit, a four-piece jazz instrumental band, delivers outstanding jazz with a lineup of piano, upright bass, drums, and drums & percussion.
Among them, Yoshiyasu Taruei—who started playing piano at the age of 20—produces tones that resonate deeply, as showcased on “Roots.”
The ‘convulsive’ beauty within sound is a wild shudder that visits the body beyond ideas.te’
This is a post-rock band led by Akihiro Kono, a figure well known among those in the know at Zankyo Records.
They’re also famous for their long song titles, and “The ‘convulsive’ beauty within sound is a wild shudder that transcends ideas and visits the body” is so long it’s hard to remember, right? Just as the title suggests, it’s an emotional track.
musical brainfoodLITTLE TEMPO
A dub band formed in 1992.
Their songs, rooted in reggae dub, are all wonderfully pleasant to listen to, and once you hear them, they’re guaranteed to stick in your head.
Their performance skills are exceptionally high, so you never get bored listening.
They’re a top-tier, accomplished band active on the front lines.
Masterpieces of Japanese instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks (41–50)
Theme of the Silk Road / Silk Road (絲綢之路)Kitaro
Kitaro, a synthesizer player who has won a Grammy as a Japanese artist.
His hallmark—and what makes him remarkable—is crafting grand, expansive compositions that make full use of the distinctive timbres of the synthesizer.
With sounds that feel both ethnic and distinctly Japanese, his music lets you immerse yourself in an oriental atmosphere.
Dash (Run, run!)Sonoda Bando
A popular band that uses a variety of instruments to deliver very clear instrumentals built on highly entertaining, catchy tracks.
Drawing on rock and club music as well, they express the titular sense of momentum with disarming ease, and yet—even amid the headlong rush—the song retains a proper elegance.
A true classic.