Recommended Japanese bands for women in their 20s

rosemarykimi to bando

rosemary (You and the Band) MV Full Ver. 4K

Kimi to Band, a highly skilled girls’ band from Ehime Prefecture, is gaining attention for its unique sound that fuses pop rock and alternative rock.

Formed in March 2020, they have been active energetically, including successfully completing a tour of all 47 prefectures.

In August 2022, they achieved a solo show at Zepp Haneda in record time for an indie band.

The group features a distinctive lineup: Mai Ohno, known as Japan’s most beautiful drummer; Rio Kiyohara, formerly of “Last Idol”; accomplished singer-songwriter Risako Morita; and bassist YUKI.

Through their albums “Kimi to Band no 1” and “kimiban,” they have established a unique world with powerful sound and delicate vocals.

They are the perfect band for listeners seeking commanding live performances and solid musicianship.

UkifuneGO!GO!7188

GO!GO!7188 – Ukifune / Ukifune – Ukifune (Official PV)

This is a three-piece rock band formed by classmates Yuu and Akko from Kagoshima.

They specialize in surf rock and garage rock infused with traditional Japanese flavors, and made their major debut in 2000.

Skillfully weaving in elements of nostalgic Shōwa-era pop while adding a punk rock edge, they captivated many fans with their distinctive sound.

Their fiery live performances—driven by Yuu’s striking vocals and guitar, Akko’s bass, and Turkey’s drums—left audiences in awe.

Even after disbanding in February 2012, the members each continued their musical pursuits.

If you discovered rock in your youth, this band will surely resonate with you.

In Love with the Mirrorraisan

Praise – In Love with the Mirror

Reisan is a rising band attracting attention on the music scene.

Formed in December 2021, they’ve captivated many listeners with a unique sound that fuses rock and pop around a hip-hop core.

Their hallmark is CLR’s expressive vocals—interweaving rap and singing—paired with a powerful, full-bodied sound from the skilled members.

Their February 2024 EP, “PEAK TIME,” further broadened their musical range.

The nationwide one-man tour “NICE BUDDY” held in 2025 saw every show sell out on the same day tickets went on sale.

They’ve also been active beyond music, including a collaboration with Kasugai Confectionery’s “Mochira,” earning high praise from the media.

They’re a recommended band for listeners seeking new possibilities in music.

Time capsuleAo

Ao – Time Capsule [Official MV]

A delivering emotional rock sound, Ao is a three-woman band formed in April 2024.

The band was launched by its central figure, Zarame, in pursuit of new musical expression.

Zarame’s warm, powerful vocals combined with the driving sound created by Momo and maki have captured the hearts of many music fans.

Their nationwide eight-city tour, the “Beyond Baby Blue tour,” ran from October to November 2024, traveling from Shibuya to Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Kobe, Osaka, Nagoya, and Sendai, and concluded with a solo show at Ebisu LIQUIDROOM.

Taking its name from “Ao,” meaning blue—symbolizing youth and new beginnings—the band pours an unyielding spirit of dreams and hope into their songs.

Ao is highly recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy music with a positive outlook.

Archetype of LoveAJICO

AJICO – Archetype of Love (Official Video)

AJICO is a supergroup that left a vivid mark on Japan’s music scene.

Since their formation in 2000, they’ve captivated many listeners with the distinctive world crafted by UA’s alluring vocals and Kenichi Asai’s guitar.

Singles like “Hadou” and “Utsukushii Koto” showcase a wide musical range, from funk-laced sounds to nostalgic tones.

Their live performances highlight each member’s exceptional musicianship, igniting audiences with excitement.

In 2021, they released an EP for the first time in about 20 years and performed at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL.

Their songs, balancing beauty and sensuality, express emotion through imagery and draw listeners into a unique realm.

They’re perfect for anyone looking to delve into the deeper layers of music.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite (2016 ver.)”

Isn’t the chorus of this song a phrase that everyone finds familiar? The word “rewrite” means to write something over.

Just as the word suggests, it’s a song that gives you the strength to face forward when something bad happens or when you’re feeling down.

It’s a signature track by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.

Shangri-LaChatmonchy

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video

It’s no exaggeration to say this song made Chatmonchy’s name known nationwide.

It was used as the ending theme for the anime “Hataraki Man.” From the very first lines, you’re drawn into their world.

Once you hear it, it’s a track that won’t leave your head.