Japanese metal bands. From classic to unique, popular bands in Japan’s metal scene.

Until a little while ago, Japanese metal bands sometimes carried a slightly odd image.

However, these days there’s a wide range: not only straight-ahead, traditional metal, but also metal fused with Japanese aesthetics or visual-kei, bands that thrill with jaw-dropping technique, and extreme metal outfits that earn high praise overseas.

So this time, we’re introducing indispensable Japanese metal bands you can’t skip when talking about metal in Japan.

We’ve selected everything from heavyweight bands that represent the nation to groups whose diverse musicality defies the boundaries of metal.

Be sure to check them out!