Japanese shred guitarist
If you’re into rock, metal, or simply love guitarists and guitar tones, chances are you also enjoy lightning-fast soloing.
As a guitarist, almost everyone has probably wanted to master a fast-picking phrase at least once, right? In this article, we’ll introduce captivating fast-playing guitarists, focusing on musicians active in Japan.
While “shredding” might make you think of the metal scene, we’ll be spotlighting not only metal but also highly regarded technicians from jazz and fusion.
Now, let’s dive in and listen to some blazing speed that’s gone in the blink of an eye!
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Japanese shred guitarists (21–30)
Li-sa-X
Li-sa-X, a guitarist born in 2005 often called a prodigy guitar girl, has been familiar with the instrument since childhood.
Her performance videos posted on YouTube drew major attention and quickly made her a hot topic.
She has taken lessons from Paul Gilbert, one of America’s leading guitarists, and even joined performances as a guest.
She has showcased her technical guitar playing across a wide range of fields, appearing at events like Summer Sonic and L.A.
METAL SUMMIT in Tokyo.
She favors Ibanez guitars, achieving a clear and dynamic tone, and performs rapid passages using advanced techniques such as sweep picking and tapping.
She is an artist active across various scenes, including forming and performing with her own band.
TriptychDAITA（SIAM SHADE）
DAITA, a Tokyo-born guitarist known for being a member of the rock band SIAM SHADE—famous for hits like “1/3 no Junjō na Kanjō”—discovered the guitar in middle school and participated in numerous music contests during high school.
After joining SIAM SHADE in 1993, he broadened his scope of activities.
Influenced by Western hard rock, he showcases technical performances using techniques such as legato and arming—raising and lowering pitch by applying force to the tremolo unit.
He debuted as a solo guitarist in 2013 and is active both as a performer and a composer, providing songs and working on video game music.
Wada Akira (PRISM)
Akira Wada, the guitarist who made his mark as a member of PRISM, a pioneering Japanese fusion band.
With the members’ high level of musicianship, they realized a borderless sound that drew on jazz and progressive rock grounded in hard rock.
His fingerwork, delivering guitar phrases at blinding speed, is astonishing, and his style—making full use of sweep and legato techniques—is especially striking.
His signature model crafted by Saijo Guitars produces a one-of-a-kind tone.
An artist who discovered new possibilities for the guitar through ad-lib sessions powered by overwhelming technique and through deeply crafted sound design.
PhiliaHIZAKI（Versailles）
Hizaki, a native of Shiga Prefecture, is a core member and guitarist of the visual kei metal band Versailles.
Immersed in classical music from a young age, he began his career as a guitarist in visual kei bands after graduating from high school.
When he formed Versailles in 2007, the band drew significant attention not only in Japan but also in Europe and the United States.
Performing in Rococo-style costumes reminiscent of 18th-century France, the band captivates fans with a sound that perfectly matches their symphonic image.
While he delivers a heavy, high-gain sound characteristic of heavy metal, his solo work also includes guitar instrumentals centered on melody.
He is an artist known for commanding live performances using ESP guitars.
Don’t let it dieShimizu Akio (ANTHEM)
A heavy metal band in which Akio Shimizu plays as the guitarist.
His guitar work isn’t just technical; he’s exceptionally skilled at creating standout highlight moments within the songs.
I believe this is related to his broad background, as he also works as a composer.
Ark StormŌta Katsu (Ark Storm)
Ark Storm is a Japanese melodic speed metal band.
From the intro riff, it immediately seizes you with full-picked riffing, and the mid-song sweep into the guitar solo is exhilarating.
I used to associate Japanese metal with a slightly rough-and-ready vibe that makes the Japanese lyrics shine, but it’s been a while since I’ve heard metal this polished.
FightmanNoro Issei (Kashiopea)
Casiopea, the original fusion band.
In this genre, not only the guitar but the other parts are highly technical, yet the music unfolds in an easy-to-follow story, making it a genre that often captivates those who have mastered their technique.
The slap bass is amazing, but the guitar that confidently takes the lead in the solo sections is especially cool.