![[From Classics to the Latest] A Roundup of Recommended Japanese Rock Bands! [2026]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wwVlJfJgWJI/sddefault.jpg)
[From Classics to the Latest] A Roundup of Recommended Japanese Rock Bands! [2026]
In recent years, music festivals of all sizes have been held all over the place, and rock bands’ songs are often used for commercials and TV drama theme songs! Rock bands frequently appear at the top of the charts, and the Japanese rock scene is drawing a lot of attention.
But with so many bands active, plenty of people might be thinking, “I don’t know which songs to start with!” So in this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of classic Japanese rock bands.
First, try listening to the bands featured here and figure out what kind of sound you like!
[From Classics to the Latest] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands Roundup! [2026] (1–10)
Rewrite (2016 ver.)ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
A four-piece rock band formed in 1996 in the light music club at Kanto Gakuin University, celebrating 25 years together in 2021.
Their rock sound, often categorized as grunge or alternative, combined with straightforward, delicate lyrics that evoke vivid scenes and landscapes, has earned overwhelming support, especially among younger listeners.
Many of their songs pair simple yet robust instrumentation with catchy melodies, making them a rock band whose music naturally draws in even those who don’t usually listen to rock.
Dream In DriveTHE ORAL CIGARETTES
A four-piece rock band formed in 2014 that has drawn attention for their overseas activities, including a successful tour across Asia.
While their lyrics are characterized by a dark worldview that explores the shadows of human nature, many of their songs feature straightforward rock sounds and catchy melodies whose addictive quality captivates listeners.
Their paradoxical lyrics—affirming something by acknowledging negative emotions—pierce the heart when paired with guitar-driven arrangements, making them a stylish rock band that is intriguingly unconventional in the best possible way.
GuildBUMP OF CHICKEN
Known by the nickname “Bump,” this rock band was formed in 1996 by four childhood friends from kindergarten.
Their songs, which merge an intellectually resonant, original lyrical world with emotionally stirring rock sounds, are beloved across generations.
Publicly cited as an influence by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, the band has been drawing renewed attention and continues to influence many musicians active in today’s Japanese rock scene.
Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK
A four-piece rock band that performs both in Japan and abroad and has now become one of the leading acts in Japan’s rock scene.
While attention tends to focus on vocalist TAKA—whose distinctively non-Japanese singing voice and parentage as the eldest son of singers Shinichi Mori and Masako Mori draw notice—the band’s appeal lies in a rock sound born from the blend of each member’s individuality and skill: guitars that deliver catchy phrases with a robust sonic punch, a serpentine bass that shapes the dynamics of each song, and tight drums that flawlessly handle everything from slow ballads to intense rock tunes.
FLY AGAINMAN WITH A MISSION
A five-piece rock band that performs in Japan and abroad under the concept of five ultimate lifeforms with wolves’ heads and human bodies.
Their sound draws on a wide range of influences—’90s metal, alternative, grunge, pop punk, crossover, and rap—sure to thrill not only younger listeners but veteran rock fans as well.
In a music industry where artists are often judged by factors like age and looks, they captivate the world with a pure rock sound that transcends all such criteria—a truly formidable rock band for a new era.
Fuzzy NavelConton Candy
Conton Candy is a three-piece all-female rock band formed in 2018.
Their appeal lies in powerful vocals, songs that resonate with younger listeners, and the overwhelming stability created by their bass-and-drums rhythm section.
A track from their first EP, “PURE,” released in November 2021, went viral on social media and ignited their popularity.
Since then, they’ve performed actively, drawing such large crowds at festivals and events that entry restrictions are often imposed.
With the wish to become “a band loved by people of all generations,” their music—often bittersweet love songs—strikes a chord with many listeners.
Brimming with youth and momentum, their sound is recommended not only for rock fans but also for anyone looking to discover something new.
Irreversible replaceMY FIRST STORY
MY FIRST STORY is a five-member rock band formed in the summer of 2011 in Shibuya, Tokyo.
They are known for their powerful vocals, fast-paced melodies, and lyrics that are both heartrending and passionate.
They released their first album, “MY FIRST STORY,” in April 2012 and have steadily built their career since.
Their 2016 album “ANTITHESE” debuted at No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
That same year, they drew an audience of 12,000 at their successful show at Nippon Budokan.
The band’s leader, Hiro, is the third son of former celebrity couple Shinichi Mori and Masako Mori, and his older brother is Taka, the vocalist of ONE OK ROCK.
The band has broad popularity, with songs also featured as themes for TV anime.