[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 Roundup! [2026] (41–50)

REVOLUTIONcoldrain

coldrain – REVOLUTION (Official Music Video)

REVOLUTIONcoldrain

Coldrain is now a band leading Japan’s loud rock scene, and they’ve outgrown the domestic stage—playing shows overseas and enjoying immense popularity.

Their heavy sound and solid musicianship are highly refined, and it’s easy to see why they’re embraced internationally.

This track is epic too, with an impressive sense of space you can feel even through headphones—top-notch quality as expected.

They’re definitely a band you’ll want to listen to loud.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

VelonicaAqua Timez

Aqua Timez “Velonica” Music Video (Anime “BLEACH” Season 9 Opening Theme)

VelonicaAqua Timez

A five-member rock band that was active from the mid-2000s.

Since their major debut in 2006, they have captivated many fans with lyrics and melodies that resonate deeply.

Many of their songs were used as theme songs for anime and TV dramas, earning support from a wide range of listeners.

According to one story about the origin of their name, they chose the word “Aqua” close to a deadline and took “Timez” from an information magazine.

Although they disbanded after their final concert on November 18, 2018, the members have each continued their musical activities in new forms.

With heartfelt lyrics and a refreshing sound, Aqua Timez’s songs are sure to speak to your heart.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Melodic Stormsutoreitenaa

Straightener – Melodic Storm

Melodic Stormsutoreitenaa

A standout straight-ahead rock track from STRAIGHTENER, a band that has remained at the forefront of Japan’s rock scene since their debut.

Their signature rock number pairs a moderately distorted, edgy band sound with vocalist Atsushi Horie’s clear, beautiful voice.

The song’s structure is exquisite—soaring and moving at the same time—delivering an irresistibly good melody.

Raise the rankinglower

Murakami Shinpei

Report a problem

My Instant SongMONOEYES

MONOEYES – My Instant Song（Music Video）

My Instant SongMONOEYES

Takeshi Hosomi, the vocalist of the HIATUS, has started a new band.

In the music video for this song, released in June 2015, you can see children jumping around at a birthday party.

True to that imagery, the song is bright, poppy, and charming.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT

The End of the World / THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT

The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT

Formed in 1991 by university club mates, they made their major debut in 1996.

Carrying a sound that incorporated pub rock, punk, and rockabilly, they kept blazing through the rock scene until their breakup in 2003.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Sunrise&Sunsetandymori

andymori「Sunrise&Sunset」

Sunrise&Sunsetandymori

They’re a three-piece band that’s currently on hiatus.

Their music has light, refreshing melodies and vocals with a somewhat relaxed feel, the kind that naturally makes your body move.

They have breezy songs, but their sentimental tracks are also really great, so the hiatus is honestly a real shock.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Set the heart on fire9mm Parabellum Bullet

9mm Parabellum Bullet – Set Fire to the Heart

Set the heart on fire9mm Parabellum Bullet

They’re a band renowned for their overwhelming live performances.

Their sound—like a mashup of UK rock, Japanese kayōkyoku, and alternative—creates a chaotic, distinctly 9mm style.

The guitarist’s intense live performance is also a hallmark and hugely popular.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem