[From Classics to the Latest] A Roundup of Recommended Japanese Rock Bands! [2026]

Music writer / guitarist / Certified web writing practitionerHoshino Takashi
Drawing on over 30 years of experience with guitars and bands since my high school days, I specialize in music-related articles and have handled many feature pieces to date. While my tastes lean toward genres like hard rock and heavy metal since I first picked up the guitar, I make a point of listening to a wide range of styles, both Japanese and Western, on a daily basis. I began working as a freelance writer in 2018. I hold a Web Writing Practical Certification, and in addition to writing, I’m also studying video editing. In my private life, I’m raising an elementary school child and stay active while supporting their extracurriculars, such as parkour and dance.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

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! [2026] (131–140)

Why I’m MeRIZE

RIZE 『Why I’m Me』Music Video

Why I'm MeRIZE

Formed in 1997, the Japanese three-piece rock band RIZE delivers a unique sound that fuses a wide range of genres, including mixture rock, alternative rock, nu metal, and punk rock.

They made their major debut in August 2000 with the release of the album “ROOKEY.” After relocating their base of operations to Los Angeles, they expanded their activities overseas, including a U.S.

tour with Kottonmouth Kings.

In December 2017, they proved their prowess by successfully holding the first Nippon Budokan concert in the band’s history.

With passionate messages and overwhelming performances, RIZE continues to leave a powerful mark on the J-rock scene, offering a moving experience with their heartfelt, high-energy sound.

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AHEADVAMPS

VAMPS – AHEAD

AHEADVAMPS

Formed in 2008 by two of Japan’s leading rock stars—HYDE of L’Arc〜en〜Ciel and K.A.Z of Oblivion Dust—this rock unit centers on hard rock while at times incorporating pop elements, earning high praise both domestically and internationally.

Kicking off with a U.S.

tour in 2009, they expanded their activities worldwide and won “Rising International Artist” at the Billboard Japan Music Awards.

In 2015, they also took home “Best Rock Artist” at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan.

They’re known for energetic guitar riffs, catchy melodies, and electrifying live performances.

If you were into L’Arc〜en〜Ciel during your youth, you’re sure to discover a fresh musical experience.

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End of HeatFusee

Fusee – End of Heat (Music Video)

End of HeatFusee

Fusee is a rock band that, while upbeat, also conveys a touch of ennui.

After winning the runner-up prize at the 2021 audition hosted by Sony Music’s Next-Generation Rock R&D Lab, they rose to nationwide recognition.

Since then, they’ve continued to release excellent tracks on a steady basis.

Their appeal lies in their catchy musicality.

With melodies and lyrics that are easy to relate to, they’re just right for listeners who haven’t yet dived deeply into serious rock.

They’re one of the bands I recommend to anyone looking to get into rock from here on out.

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Summer breeze, you and I in lovekatakoto

Broken Japanese 'Summer Breeze, You and I in Love' Music Video

Summer breeze, you and I in lovekatakoto

Katakanato is a rock band formed by three members born in 2000.

They began activities in 2016 when the members were in junior high school and have achieved excellent results in numerous band contests, including Music Revolution and the Mikakunin Festival.

With refreshing vocals, melodic lines, and strong musicianship in every part, there’s plenty to see and hear.

Please take your time to savor their fresh yet sophisticated appeal.

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Anthem of CounterattackRyukku to soine gohan

Back-to-Back with Ruck / Anthem of Retaliation [Music Video]

Anthem of CounterattackRyukku to soine gohan

Ryukku to Soinē Gohan, also known by the nickname “Ryukuso,” are a guitar rock band.

The turning point that made them known to many rock listeners was winning RO JACK, the audition that awards a performance slot at ROCK IN JAPAN in 2019.

Still in high school at the time, they delivered an impressive performance on the big stage and quickly drew widespread attention.

Their songs are packed with highlights: catchy guitar riffs, superb song structures that make you want to replay them, and finely crafted arrangements for each instrument.

They’re a talented rock band that not only appeals to younger listeners but is one adults should definitely check out as well.

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HelloAJISAI

AJISAI Hello

HelloAJISAI

Formed in 2002, the Japanese rock band AJISAI has steadfastly insisted on expressing all of their songs in Japanese.

On NHK’s “Nesshō On Air Battle,” they recorded the most wins in the band’s history.

They have also received the Keiko Terada Award, a testament to their highly regarded talent.

Ranging from ballads that evoke the essence of summer to powerful confession songs, their music spans a wide array of themes, as if coloring snapshots of youth.

By focusing on conveying the beauty and allure of the Japanese language, their songs continue to be loved by many to this day.

They’re a recommended band for anyone who wants to savor the depth of Japanese lyrics.

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Sea and Bouquetkinoko teikoku

Kinoko Teikoku – The Sea and the Bouquet (MV)

Sea and Bouquetkinoko teikoku

Kinoko Teikoku is a four-piece rock band formed in 2007.

They made their major-label debut in 2015 and have captivated many fans with their distinctive sound.

Influenced by shoegaze and post-rock while incorporating elements of J-pop, their music builds a unique soundscape wrapped in boosted low end and roaring noise.

It’s also notable that vocalist and guitarist Chiaki Sato writes and composes all of their songs.

Their 2018 album Time Lapse drew attention as a work commemorating the band’s 10th anniversary.

They have also made headlines for collaborations with film and television, such as providing the theme song for the movie Her Love Boils Bathwater.

With lyrics that combine delicacy and strength and melodies that feel effortlessly pleasant, their music offers a compelling listening experience that reveals something new each time.

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