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[Beginner’s Guide] Recommended Japanese Techno Artists

“I want to know about Japanese techno artists!” In this article, we’ve done the research to answer that call.

Techno has energized the underground scene, its popularity has spread worldwide, and now you can find massive techno festivals across the globe.

We’ve compiled a list that weaves in various subgenres, including minimal techno and hard techno.

Famous groups that have left their mark on Japanese music history also make an appearance!

Fans, be sure to check it out!

[Beginner’s Guide] Recommended Japanese Techno Artists (11–20)

TelefonLAUSBUB

LAUSBUB – Telefon (Official Video)
TelefonLAUSBUB

LAUSBUB, a standout techno unit from Sapporo, is a talented duo consisting of Riko Iwai and Mei Takahashi.

Their musical world, strongly influenced by YMO, is distinguished by a unique sense of weightless atmosphere and refreshing vocals.

Their 2021 release “Telefon” topped the weekly SoundCloud charts, showcasing their refined sensibilities to a wide audience.

Both members not only perform but also handle songwriting and even jacket artwork themselves, demonstrating their multifaceted creativity.

They are artists who are expected to make a significant impact on Japan’s techno scene going forward.

DNAWata Igarashi

Wataru Igarashi is renowned for producing exceptionally modern deep techno within the broader techno spectrum.

Through performances at the global dance music festival Rural and collaborations with DJ Nobu, his sensibilities have become even more refined.

His live sets are also highly regarded, characterized by a sound color well-suited to underground spaces and a distinctive, simple groove.

nnoon

nōon – Freeway
nnoon

Embodying the diversity of the Japanese music scene, the band noono (んoon) offers listeners a new way to enjoy music.

JC’s expressively rich vocals, Naoto Sekishima’s bass lines, Kensaku Egashira’s delicate keyboards, and Yuko Wes’s otherworldly harp weave a musical world unlike any other.

Their EP “Freeway” transcends genre boundaries and feels like it’s charting new musical horizons.

満ちあふれる無限の可能性を秘めたんoonの楽曲は、あらゆるタイプの音楽ファンの心を必ずつかむだろう。

ONE HOUR MUSICDJ KIYOTO

KIYOTO – ONE HOUR MUSIC (Nonstop Mix)
ONE HOUR MUSICDJ KIYOTO

DJ KIYOTO captivates audiences with outstanding talent and commanding stage performances.

His music masterfully fuses genres like EDM, trance, and techno, and he serves as the music producer for Shibuya’s nightclub TK NIGHTCLUB.

Active across Asia, he has delivered remarkable performances, including taking the main stage at the international festival ULTRA JAPAN 2023.

Keep an eye on KIYOTO’s next move.

Cwondo

Cwondo – Twwen (Official Video)
Cwondo

Cwondo, who skillfully wields the craft of techno music, captivates many listeners with his prowess.

As the solo project of Daiki Kondo, he has released a series of breakthrough albums such as Hernia and Tae, and notably earned high acclaim across borders with Kochi.

Cwondo’s works are sprinkled with tones that color everyday life and messages that enrich the listener’s heart, resonating deeply within those who hear them.

In today’s techno scene, Cwondo’s diverse expressive power is an indispensable element.

We look forward to his music continuing to inspire many people.

RAM RIDER

RAM RIDER – Radio Boy Music Video
RAM RIDER

Since beginning his career in 1996, RAM RIDER has established a firm place in Japan’s techno scene.

He captivates audiences with genre-crossing, diverse beats, and is known for his wide musical range.

Notably, his track “MUSIC,” released on his own independent label, features energetic rhythms and accessible melodies that have endeared it to many listeners and left a lasting impression.

Through his label, RAM RIDER continues to deliver a wide array of music; beyond techno, his work in electro and house consistently offers fresh excitement and joy.

His music is an excellent first step for anyone exploring recommended Japanese techno artists.

[Beginner’s Guide] Recommended Japanese Techno Artists (21–30)

ApacheQ’hey

A true veteran who has led Japan’s techno scene.

He’s also active as an organizer and producer, hosting REBOOT—the country’s longest-running techno party for over 20 years.

By the way, this track was released on Torque, a homegrown techno label that energized the underground scene.

A perfect cut for peak-time.