My Top 5 Japanese Female Guitarists 2021

[@Slippy6582]

Kanami will always be number 1, because NO ONE sounds like her! Everybody can shred, show off, tapping like crazy etc., BUT Kanami can also writing incredible catchy songs, while they are still heavy AND she got blues in her veins! Her solos are so emotional, so well thought out, IMO nobody can touch her, it´s not even close! She isn´t the BEST or most technical guitarist, but she stands out, because of her unique style and that´s why she is no. 1 BIG TIME in my book!

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!!

[@dragulia_venaro]

if we talk about guuitarist from Japan.. for me is always SYU from Galneryus.. he's on another level😅

[@kanamispick5368]

What makes Kanami my number one guitarist? She doesn't show off. She has no ego. She knows her talent. She's one of the sweetest people on the planet. She makes me emotional. She's special.

[@lurkmerchant]

I know, she's not the most technical, she even goes a bit sloppy at times, but she's the only one who I can keep my attention engaged.

[@WaterSeesWater]

Sometimes she DOES show off . For example , in " Freedom ", after Akane's drum solo, Kanami does her solo ,showing off her skills with cute face expression. 😁

[@drogonr9318]

Agree with all of that. I'll just add: is a songwriter extraordinaire, having written a mind-boggling number of great songs in a short span of time. How does a prolific songwriter like her even find time to practice?

[@estherbrowne2017]

@@lurkmerchant yup sometimes she might get sloppy ..too much fun on stage maybe 😂..but she's still my no 1 too..idk y..🤣🤣🤣i love her play... emotional

[@cepho8349]

So do you imply that all others show off? That would make for a pretty ballsy statement.

[@jkkansasband7056]

Kanami is just a special human being. Selfless with great humility. Song and band come first. Tireless and dedicated. Damn great songwriter. Mild and meek? Not with guitar in hand. She plays with feeling and so soulful. I'll be waiting for her long epic solo when she feels the time is right. Peace.

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!

[@Rabbi_Rabbs]

I'd remove "Japanese", and make it simply top 5 female guitarists period, of all time, and then put Kanami at no. 1. But, I'm biased.

[@JannAsheNemophilaFan]

Kanami, Midori, Miyako, Saki, Hazuki all right there with Slash, Petrucci, EVH, Gilmore, Olivia, Pitrelli, Rhoades, Syu on my top guitarist. Not just Japanese or female. Merel Bechtold on my list as well. My list these women are right there with the guys.

[@falconsooner]

That was great! Favorite vs best is an important distinction. Many guitarists more technical than Kanami but there is no one else I would rather listen to.

[@jaycon505]

Kanami will always and be forever special to me and yes the rest of bandmaid.

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!!

[@UltraHD.7]

Kanami might not be the fastest or most technical guitar player, but she plays (and writes) with so much heart and soul like noone else. As you said, she absolutely does everything right at exactly the right time and what the song needs. That, imo, makes her just one of a kind. Although I have to admit, for me, Hal-Ca is already not far behind ;-)

[@yang-it-yin7002]

Yeah! Great list of extremely talented instrumentalists. Kanami is not just my personal favorite female Japanese guitarist but has become my overall favorite guitarist, male/female or country of origin! She is more than an instrumentalists, she is a world class Musician. I view her as a master craftsman that has total control of her instrument/tool including the tone she has crafted, down to her proper use of effects. As a master craftsman she understands the importance of what is the purpose of what is being crafted and what is the best path to fulfill that purpose. Sure it is impressive to see shredding guitar calisthenics and flashy techniques there is no denying it is an important factor when judging or ranking ones skill level. But that is just one piece of the equation. A guitar is an instrument, a tool and as a tool its purpose is to build/create. I believe Kanami has a firm grasp of that concept. She is not consumed by the need to personally express her level of aptitude on that instrument rather she uses it like that of a true artist, adding color and texture in the areas that need it and most importantly where it is not needed. I feel that she understands that silence is also a note in music and has incorporated within her compositions. She also has an incredible sense of dynamics. I feel Kanami is the total package! She is a unique guitarist/songwriter. She possesses a distinct and memorable style which could not be said for most guitarists. She also does something I have rarely seen from other guitarist and this she weaves rhythmic chord patterns within her guitar solos like a painter throwing a splash of color with their brush. It becomes an accent that adds texture to the overall feel she is trying to express. Have to love it! Finally I believe Kanami has certain intangibles that are lacking with many other extremely talented guitarists such as her sense of humility and removal of any ego. She is respectful of what her role as a guitarist is within a collaboration. Music is ultimately a collaborative exercise which requires a harmonious interaction with others. Sure it is possible to be a soloist and create/record each element on your own but that is not a band. And ultimately becomes a limited form of expression coming from a singular individuals perspective. A band on the other hand requires sacrifice by all involved to create an impactful form of expression that is greater than the sum of its parts. Kanami appears to have the awareness of that concept and has done so accordingly.

[@carldevries9108]

Some really good guitarists there. Cannot argue with the Uber-talented Kanami as number 1. For myself I also love Midori and Miyako of Lovebites.

[@AxeJapan]

I appreciate your opinion and for not telling me my list is wrong because I didn't include them 😂🤘

[@GaryHolloway-810]

I'm not a guitarist Axeman so I agree with your expert opinion of the N°1 choice. Cheques in the post btw. 😏

[@xagorvangard]

Well since Gary gave his stamp of approval, then it's settled. No changes needed. It is now Gary certified. 👍

[@GaryHolloway-810]

@@xagorvangard I'm not sure how much validity that has but I'm ok with it. Lol

[@xagorvangard]

@@GaryHolloway-810 How much? I'm glad you asked. Will you be sending me a check as well? 🤣

[@GaryHolloway-810]

@@xagorvangard If you read my reply on your comment you'll find it should of been here. But seeing as it'll appear in your feed anyway, there's no point in me deleting it & posting it here. D'OH!

[@xagorvangard]

@@GaryHolloway-810 LOL. Getting a little mixed up? Should we dare blame age for that? 😂

[@VladimirChupin]

Found Narumi on Spotify, going to listen to her, thanks for the recommendation! HAL-CA is Haruka 😁 はるか She has chosen that Romaji spelling for the sake of uniqueness, I guess. But it's just a regular Japanese name, Haruka Noma. She's also one of my very favourite guitarists! ASTERISM is a great band. I'm glad that Kanami is your Number One now 🤘 I've heard many guitarists making disparaging remarks about her, like, "Anyone can play like that," etc. But for me, a musician's greatness is not so much in a vulgar display of power as in the refinement, taste, and a sense of measure-exactly as you've said it. There may be thousands of guitarists who can play faster than Kanami, if they are alone in their room, with a backing track at the background. But there are not so many of those who can create music like her, and serve as a foundation of a band as amazing as BAND-MAID. What always leaves me speechless is how all members of BAND-MAID do exactly what Kanami has planned for them, stitching together those little pieces into a single colourful tapestry. Kanami often PLANS for a little chaos within the song, especially when performing live, and the way the band plunges into that chaos and then emerges from it back into the perfect order... that's really amazing for me.

[@kaazan1]

I saw Kanami three times in concert, absolutely the master female rock guitarist, a real emotional machine.

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!!

[@michaelpalmer3717]

Absolutely agreed sir. Kanami has so many talents. her guitar playing being just one. She is such an all round musician, has a beautiful voice and great composer. And she is tireless on stage and her solos fit every time.

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!!

[@MrBryanwithay]

Kanami plays with feels and she knows how to translate those feels through music. I absolutely love Band-Maid and Kanami is my favorite part of the Band. I grew up on Eddie Van Halen, Warren De Martini, Alex Lifeson, Satriani, Prince, etc...she is up there with the greats.

[@johnp.johnson1541]

But you didn't grow up with Yngwie and Akira Takasaki or Criss Oliva and Randy Rhoads or even Michael Schenker? You need to revisit your childhood / teenhood. :-)

[@MrBryanwithay]

@@johnp.johnson1541 I saw Black Sabbath and Blue Oyster Cult in concert 😊

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!

[@musiktrio]

Sakura Yoshida from Hagane is the new rising star and Midori from Lovebites is the shredding queen 🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸

[@Mikupigeon]

There is just something special about Band Maid's music that other bands don't have... Hal Ca is also great because she is a BEAST on stage.

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Band maid is just to special po!!!

[@cholatse6745]

That's a great collection, could be mine :-). I personally rate Tomo-Zo a bit higher, she is very creative to serve a song, technical brillant and always on point. Tomo-Zo is highly underrated by many. Saiki is a legend and among the shredders one of my all time favorites. I also enjoy that your top five list is not just about shredders. I personally rate taste and originality always higher than just fast fingers. From this perspective I'm very pleased to find Narumi here, beautiful composition work on her last album. The only one I realy miss here is Yuki from D-Drive, she's the most taste- and soulful one of all the shredders in my humble opinion. But Yeah Kanami Tono is so much more than a wonderful Guitar player, very unique and definitely my number one for several reasons too, creativity, technic, tone, soul, riffs, composition skills, diversity and last but not least personality.

[@AxeJapan]

Very well said! Yuki was actually in my original top 5 video, its so hard to choose a top 5 really but I just like the challenge. She would probably be my number 6!

[@MSIContent]

Kanami is just so special. Just because you CAN shred, doesn’t mean you should. Her skill mixed with artistic restraint makes her performances so engaging to watch. Nothing more needs to be said about her writing skills - she’s already hit genius level 😋🤟🏻

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!

[@fastskipper777]

Fabulous list. I agree 100% - I can't believe you picked Narumi. She is so below the radar. I love her playing - so much passion. She is beautiful and an outstanding musician. Just watch her in both the Destrose and Diqualia MV's. You can't take your eyes off of her in the MV's. Narumi deserves a good band! Agree with Tomo-zo on the rank. She is an amazing musician. People don't realize how good she is. Saki's been doing this for so long - she is an absolute shredder. Kanami's my favorite. I love her. Of all the musicians, she is the only one musician who makes me really happy. Such a sweet person and a genius composer.

[@AxeJapan]

Yeah is been great seeing so much love and praise for Narumi, that ep truly is a masterpiece. I'm dying to hear more! Thanks for your comment i agree with everything you said!😁

[@realdocloco]

My own list would be the same than yours ... with one exception: I totally love "The Seed" and I often listen to it, it really made me discover Narumi: like you, she didn't deeply impressed me in Destrose or Disqualia - she was very good of course, but not "special". And that's the reason why she wouldn't make my top 5 (she would be somewhere between 6 and 9): I love team players, I love band members more than solo artists. If she finds a band where she can express the "The Seed" potential, I'll reconsider my choice of course. So who for #3? Miyako Watanabe (Lovebites). I love her duality, the classical savant and the sincere rocker revering Gary Moore, I love the expressiveness in her playing (some people tend to think she's "cold" because of her stoïc stance on stage, but her playing is fire!). And on another side she's a total geek. What's not to love? 😉

[@DavidMISAMISAMISACook]

ooohhh yeaaaaa as a non musician I have no creditable opinion but as an avid music listener I agree with that whole statement.

[@sacluvsBM]

Kanami is much like her band. There is more to the picture than meets the eye. Sacramento loves Band-Maid.

[@chrisg1286]

Hey Robert, Brisbane does as well......lol

[@jaygonzales7198]

kanami is my favorite female guitar player she seems to do whats need to be done in a song.she is soooo sweet and cute i would love to just give her a huge hug long live the queen of guitars c-ya

[@bodnarn]

Kanami has the secret sauce. Technique + Composition + Feeling. She'll never win a shred competition but she holds her own musically with anyone. She is a musician first. Even the goofy Herman Li interview/jam, she was totally comfortable playing melodically while Herman shredded. She's special.

[@yerayortiz7285]

Nice list! That's pretty much mine too, I adore Saki and Nemophila but have to agree 120% on Mincho #1 forever. The thing with Kanami is that she transmits feelings through her guitar, I don't even know how to explain it properly, it's like her instrument speaks a language that only your heart understands. She has and adds spices to her playing that nobody else can get,you can see it in the way she moves around on stage. Shit I'm in love with this band 🤘🕊️

[@AxeJapan]

Well said!

[@dexterplant778]

Kanami is in a class all alone, her ability to change genre in a split second during a song is what Set's her apart from the rest, her humble dimenor is also a unique quality, the ability to layer sounds on top of what the other Maid's are doing instead of just crunching out a pre stamped musical map is also part of the apeal, Kanami is quite special for so many reasons.

[@curtisi4403]

Kanami's playing is so good that you actually forget you're listening to a guitar. Her style flows well and compliments the music more than I would've expected.

[@riloh58]

Ooooh, I've been waiting for this one. My guitar heart belongs to Mincho 🖤💜🤍 And Yusssss! Hal Ca from Asterism is bloody brilliant. One of the things I love the most about her is that she plays on a Yamaha Pacifica or Rev Star which just goes to show that in most cases, the guitar is good enough if you are. I agree that Kanami is inspiring and she has helped me to get better at my playing and musicality too. You've helped in that regard as well (thank you). And can I also say thank you Japan for turning out such great guitarists, bands and personalities. They are leading the world.

[@AxeJapan]

Thank you so much!☺ yes I absolutely agree regarding Japan, they're taking things to the next level and actually progressing music instead of just recycling whats been done before. I love tgst she uses those guitars too! I should have clarified tgat when I said "high end" yamahas I still meant affordable 😂

[@youngaliens862]

Great list, I'd have a tough time limiting to five, there's so many excellent female guitarist's in Japan

[@lurkmerchant]

Kanami in my heart always is and will be the most unique and creative one with lots of feel in her playing, definitely My number 1. Narumi certainly reminds me of Joe Satriani (I have his instrumental album cd), I'd never heard of Narumi but she could be my no.2. There are heaps more monster metal guitarists/shredders in Japan so it must've been hard for you to decide on whom to include in the list. Personally I think lovebites' guitarists are amazing. The long solo in "Epilogue" really changed my views such as "all metal guitarists are just shedders without feel". I was wrong.

[@xagorvangard]

Couldn't agree more with this Top 5. I wouldn't make a single change. Btw, if you were female and Japanese you'd make my Top 10 😁👍🎸🤘

[@GaryHolloway-810]

If he wears the Maid costume I can overlook the not being female & Japanese bits :)

[@xagorvangard]

@@GaryHolloway-810 Lol he'll be sure to crack the Top 5 with that 🤣

[@GaryHolloway-810]

@@xagorvangard Haha. What was that Xagor? I'm losing my connec

[@AxeJapan]

😂😂 well when I hit 3000 subs maybe you should make that video 😆 ... the maid uniform is all ready in my basket 🤘

[@GaryHolloway-810]

@@AxeJapan We can't wait :)

[@stanleyday7293]

All great players. There are so many that could be included. Everyone could have a unique list. Personally, I would have to include Yuki from D-Drive on my top 5 list.

[@AxeJapan]

I know its so hard to choose just 5! Yuki was in my original top 5 video, if it had been a top 6 she would have been there 🤘

[@paulread4886]

Kanami is wonderful. if you did tell her that stuff, she would be so humble and grateful it would be heartbreaking to see. I am guitarist, writer in a band too, and I love her composition sense too. That sets her apart from most, Though Miyako is right up there forme too. Nice choices Axe.

[@AxeJapan]

Thank you! I know I'll get the chance to tell her one day 🙂

[@Ace-pt4xg]

Po!!

[@2abug]

Great Picks Axe! I though you're going to chose all the guitarists from Naon Yaon 😆 Here's my top 5: 5/ Saki (Mary's Blood, NEMOPHILA) 4/ Hal-ca (ASTERISM) 3/ Miyako (LOVEBITES) 2/ Tomo-zo (Gacharic Spin, DOLL$BOXX) 1/ Kanami Tōno (BAND-MAID) Honorable mentions: Hazuki (NEMOPHILA), Lisa-X (Li-sa-X BAND), Midori (LOVEBITES) and Mami Sasazaki (SCANDAL). Mincho and Tomo-zo are my two favorite guitarists by far. I love their guitar playing style so much :) You have become an Axeperienced guitarist thanks to Sensei Mincho Thank you Axe-man

[@2abug]

Oh and thanks for letting me know about The Seed album by Narumi. It's always good to have new music to listen to :)

[@airtioteclint]

Surprised I had to scroll down so far to see somebody mentioning Lisa-X.

[@AxeJapan]

Thanks man! And thanks for you're list and thanks for not complaining that the Lovebites girls weren't on there 😂 it's funny how some people just don't see how amazing Tomo-Zo is, im glad she's in you're top 🤘 and you're welcome "the seed" is an outstanding piece of work!

[@johnp.johnson1541]

Tōno at #1? Get real. Maid costumes are cute and all but gimmicks do not compensate for skill.

[@2abug]

@@johnp.johnson1541 what are you talking about Mr Troll? This is my list, my choices, my tastes. What I love the most about Kanami is her composition, the way she writes music inspires me. I know she’s not the best guitarist in the world or even in Japan but I’m not looking for the fastest shredders or Beethoven guitar covers. I’m looking for musicians who have songwriting and sound that can be recognizable instantly. BAND-MAID may not be for everyone’s tastes but your “gimmick” argument is just there for provocation. So please do something better of your weekend and don’t waste my time with comments like this. Thank you

[@russellpotter7294]

Asterism are new to me and have loved finding their music. Thanks. Great to see so many wonderful and talented female guitarists. What depth there is in Japan. Would never argue that Kanami is just the best around right now and frankly I can just listen to her playing all day and night.

[@TheLineCutter]

Didn't know about Saki/MsB, Nemophila. Great player. This also reminded me of how fun it has been to watch Band-Maid live. Those girls are blasting songs with such fun and ease. Just absolutely amazing players, all of em(we'll include Miku out of courtesy).

[@AxeJapan]

Wow I hope you dive into all the stuff Saki's done, im sure you'll find something you like!😄 yeah they are such a joy to watch, can't help but be in a better mood after watching them

[@TheLineCutter]

@@AxeJapan definately will. got some juicy songs from Saki that come to mind?

[@AxeJapan]

@@TheLineCutter The whole "Bloody Palace" album by Mary's Blood 😂 ... her latest solo single "Brightness" and "Monsters" by Nemophila she wrote. Though just listen to everything by them lol. Their song "Life" is a masterpiece

[@TheLineCutter]

@@AxeJapan I see what you mean on the song Life. There's real power and build up there. I do like the songs, like Brightness too. ... but when it gets too shredd-like i get bored quick. When it comes to a point in the solo where for some reason the guitarist has to move from a high note all the way down to the lower strings to then pick up back on the melody. It just seems like a technical show off that serves no purpose. And doesn't fit at all. I don't think Band-Maid ever does it even. For a reason ...

[@Bodneyblue]

Kanami....not just for her guitar skills ...but also for her composition is second to none..and just as a human being...she is a delightful lady and so adorable and a credit to Japan. Mincho Rules! 🤘🎸❤🎸🤘

[@JuanSan66]

The difference between Kanamincho and the rest: there are many virtuosos but very few epoch composers and emotional creators. She has her own musical sentiment, brave, humble, original. Great job sir. I've enjoyed a lot.

[@TomClark-Futoura]

Great list, Rich! IMO, Solos are not really meant to be strictly about its own melody or flash (notes per second) as they are about taking the listener on an emotional journey that connects them with the music at a visceral level. And then using that solo to launch the next passage with a newfound sentiment or understanding of the song's story. Kanami knows this... and usually plays this. Flash is cool. I love watching shredders… for a short while. But its the strength of the songs that ultimately make or break a band. I hope Asterism, for example, moves away from showy-type tunes to more emotional writing that really connects with both the heart and mind of the listener. (I think they will need a singer at some point). But making connection can be done within any genre and style. For example, Band-Maid's done it with hard rock, but even they have more to learn about how to write songs that are more accessible and really connect. However, Daydreaming, About Us, Choose Me, Puzzle and many others make great connections. There are so many musicians and bands that can shred and play the hell out of their instruments. But Band-Maid not only has the musicianship, they have the songs -- the writing... the compositions... the consistency of creating great material... and the ability to seamlessly cross genres, tempos and dynamics all within one song. And they have a band synergy no other band has. Band-Maid is unique among rock bands for many reasons, but it's the strength of their over 100 songs that really separate them from the rock pile. “I have become obsessed with melodies and riffs. People won’t listen anymore if the first notes are no good.” - Kanami.

[@AxeJapan]

I definitely agree! I can appreciate technical ability but if the playing doesn't speak to me in some way then I'm just not very interested. I guess its the same with music in general not just guitar playing.

[@TomClark-Futoura]

@@AxeJapan Exactly! It's the songs... and it's also authenticity Rich, from execution to each member of the band -- two attributes Band-Maid has in spades.

[@VladimirChupin]

@@TomClark-Futoura I always thought that music is a language. Hence, playing is speaking. If you can utter 600 words per minute, it does not necessarily mean you are a great speaker.

[@TomClark-Futoura]

@@VladimirChupin Agree, Vlad. Music is a language. But I think music accesses more areas of the brain than just words and concepts (thinking) based on words do. When I was playing full time for decades, I found it more difficult to be as articulate with spoken words as when I stepped away from music for a period of time. So music is a wider reaching "language" that spans more left and right brain function than verbal communications does. So for me, music is actually more fulfilling and satisfying than verbally talking. Interestingly, writing is also more fulfilling than talking for me, too. So the ultimate was writing and playing music -- a place that I'm sure Kanami is in and why it may be a bit more difficult for her to verbally communicate than her bandmates.

[@VladimirChupin]

@@TomClark-Futoura Well, kanji are pictures 😉 So, you can communicate even with pictures. Dance is definitely a language as well. In Japan, they have a "language of the flowers" and "language of a fan." Certain flowers have certain meanings, and fan gestures give messages to those who know how to interpret them. Languages can be very different indeed...

[@Sifuben]

Wow, really blown away by the Narumi solo material. I discovered Gacharic Spin and Doll$boxx from your first video and I listen to both daily. I think the fact that the music is so busy maybe makes Tomo-zo not stand out so much, and her solos are typically pretty short, but if you're paying attention she is obviously spectacularly talented. Do you think Kanami has got better lately or do you think it's just that Miku has reached a skill level that allows her to play more freely? I haven't listened to Asterism for a while, will definitely revisit. I'm really sad that Miyazawa Marin has dropped off the radar, I love her playing (even if Lovendor is a slightly odd vehicle for it)

[@AxeJapan]

That's awesome you made that discovery from the first video! I've been listening to a lot more Gacharic spin lately. I do think Kanami has improved as well as Miku but yes you're right aswell that with Miku being able to play some of the more complex rhythm parts it's given Kanami even more freedom and her writing definitely reflects that.

[@PurpleDracos]

@Sifuben Miyazawa Marin really needs to find a band. I wonder if there are some musicians without a home or looking for a side project that can get together. Maybe pick up some more graduated idol singers, with the alt and dark idol scenes there are probably some vocalists looking for the next step possibly into fronting a band.

[@garrettkramnick6862]

5. Toki from Aldious, I think she gets overlooked at times because they have a very light mainstream sound to them. They are a fun band to listen to though. 4. I was surprised as well that you picked Narumi. The Seed was a wonderful EP from her and I hope she has more music planned in the future. I think I would put Yuki at my number 3 spot. I love her work with D_Drive. They have this blend of Metal and Jazz tones at times which just leads to an incredible amount of soul in their music. 2. Kanami BAND-MAID was the first band in Japan to really grab my attention regarding J Rock / Metal. I think her guitar riffs and song composition is amazing. 1. SAKI is an incredible ambassador for Metal and female guitarists. I don't play guitar, but technically she can do everything. From the almost haunting guitar riffs and solo in Death Queen's March to the soft stuff in Infinite Love. There's just an incredible amount of creativity, passion, and emotion from her playing. I would love if Mary's Blood and Nemophila make their way to the US some day.

[@cepho8349]

This is a good list. I'm surprised to not see anyone from Lovebites though. How about Miyako or Midori?

[@OldMrB]

Well I would got 3 out of the 5 right and I have reacted to Narumi a while back , I don't have a top 5, more like a top 20, I can never make my mind up in what order to put them, great video.

[@robertturner8040]

Me as well you could easily put 20 names in a hat

[@sacluvsBM]

I would have squeezed Miyako in there but not much else to quibble with. Sacramento loves Mincho.

[@RalphBellairs]

Just discovered your channel via Old Mr B. I love Japanese culture in general and Japanese music in particular, so this was an easy subscribe! Never heard Hal-Ca before, so thanks for the heads up. I'll be following Asterism from now on. Goes without saying that I love Kanami! The other 3 ladies are obviously highly talented, but shredding isn't really my thing. However I must give a mention to my favourite guitarist irrespective of country or gender and that is for the Goddess of drone metal, the mighty Wata from Boris. I suppose it rather depends on what genres of music you prefer! Thanks AJ. Regards from Lancashire. 😎

[@AxeJapan]

That’s awesome man! Welcome! Yeah Asterism have been one to watch for a while, they just get better and better. Did you find me from the Boris reaction Mr B and myself did? I love Boris! 😍 And yeah she is a guitar goddess for sure!

[@Ratchy]

Is there such thing as a High-end Pacifica? Anyway she deserves a way better guitar than that!! My favourite is Kanami by far with millions of reasons. But technic-wise I have to admit Tomo-zo comes to the top. She has complete control over her guitar.

[@AxeJapan]

Yeah when I meant high end I still meant affordable 😂

[@Ratchy]

@@AxeJapan oh, they are affordable, definitely. Since you are so much aware of Japanese contents, you might know this....just uploaded today. [ Lisa-X plays Marty Friedman's "Inferno" in front of him ] kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4atlXqNatyWiLc&lc= No English title nor subtitles, but may be fun to watch!!

[@nonlinear9547]

Very nice list. Thanks. Some new names for me. i will check them out. As you said in the end of the video you know Midori an Miyako already offcourse. They are my personal favorites. Not because they are better than the other guitar players but they work so well as a team.

[@neilyamashita2426]

Love Kanamincho and all the awesome ladies of bandmaid!🤘🤘❤❤👍 Haruka (Hal ca) of asterism is by far my favorite shredder and headbanger on stage! 🤘🤘🤩🤩🎸🎸

[@stewartmurdoch4394]

you would already know these players but i would like to mention saki's band mate in nemophila,hazuki and rie aka suzuka.rie incorporates a lot of world music influences which makes her interesting and unique

[@michaelthain4488]

Rie is great. Her Summit Ladies Night vids (ssee PoppinRecords channel) are very good). Had some great players in her band for these intrumental nights. Senri Kawaguchi and KanadeSato drums, Juna bass etc.. Love her interpretations of some of Jeff Beck's material

[@dollydayday]

Really enjoyed this selection your top 5 female guitarists and all these ladies are super talented but I must say Kanami Tono is something special she is such a shining star yet so humble a unique musician I am so pleased I discovered her and Band Maid. Please keep up the good work I like things you do on your station well done.

[@TheCyberMantis]

Here is my list ( in no particular order ): Midori, Miyako, Hal-Ca, Yuki D-drive, Saki

[@keno3312]

I definitely agree with your top two of Kanami and Saki but my next three would be: 3 - Yuki (D Drive) 4 - Sakura (Hagane) 5 - Toki (Aldious) Honourable mention to Erika of Whiskey Dust

[@fastskipper777]

Yuki is great. I don't really feel Toki's playing. She is competent but I don't care much whenever she plays.

[@AxeJapan]

Oooh I haven't heard of Whisky Dust, will go check them out! Thanks for you're list 🤘

[@michaelthain4488]

Hal Ca tOMO zO Narumi SAKI kANAMI Hi Mr Axe My top 2 align with your pick although sometimes change who is 1 or 2. Love them both. We can remove a visual effect they might jhave because despite being a happily married man of 30 years I have a small crush on both of them. I am non technical so can only go on what I feel and what grabs me but Saki's solos just seem to have something extra in them the licks are just that bit different from everyone elses. To me kanami's guitar work is always about the song. She is always riffing away in the background and when she solos it is short and to the point. That and the plethora of great songs she has written makes her my favorite. Love Tomo Zo as well. And Hal Ca is a force of nature and the basist in Asterism is not have bad either. Will have to check out Narumi I think I have only seen her briefly was she with Aldious for a short while whils Toki was on maternity leave. The acoustic bit in your clip of her sounded great. If we could have the list upped to 6 I would have Miyako in there as well. And if we could have a list of 10 I would have in there guitarists like Ayumi, Miyazawa, Yuki, Sakura I blame you and Mr Old Mr B for getting me hooked on Japanese Rock and Metal. I have subscriptions to Amazon Prime, Sky, Netflix etc but never watch anything on it now. Always on KZbin listening/Watching music videos. In the last 7 months or so subscribed to so many Livestreams - 3 Band-Maid, 3 Nemophila, 1 Mary's Blood and 1 Shred racer (Saki and Yuki)

[@AxeJapan]

I agree with everything you said about Saki's solo's they really do have some magic to them! I'm always so happy to hear that I've got people listening to more Japanese music and bringing them into this amazing community 😁 Thank you so much!

[@billbird6494]

@@AxeJapan Mine - 1 - Kanami - Band-Maid 2 - Miyako - Lovebites 3 - Saki - Nemophila/Mary's Blood 4 - Tomo - Gacharic Spin/Doll$boxx 5 - Yuki - D_Drive

[@billbird6494]

Shout out to Ryo from Elfriede just because I like her fuzzy tone - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpzYn39jrJZqp5o

[@_DriveTime]

There are a couple on the list I'll have to check out. Kanami has a wonderful sense of melody. I often find myself humming her solos or lead riffs. The freedom solo you showed is a great example. If I listen to their song Liberal, I can't get that lead riff out of my head for a couple of days. She caught my ear in the very first track I heard, and I'm glad I kept digging.

[@falconsooner]

That is a great great riff. I love the outro when all instruments drop oit except for Kanami's riff.

[@tibornogradi3432]

Nekem ebből, és még sok más hozzászólásból az jön le: Kanami "életveszélyes kis hölgy" És igen ez megerősít, mert az első benyomásaim is ezek voltak róla. Elsőre elcsavarta a fejem, és megmarkolta a szívem. :) For me, this and many other posts come down to: Kanami's "life-threatening little lady" And yes that confirms it, because that was my first impression of it, too. At first I twisted my head and grabbed my heart. :) Sorry, I used a google translator ... as you can see. :)

[@_DriveTime]

@@tibornogradi3432 Értem. Köszönöm.

[@cmcknight]

Thanks for this, cheered when Narumi was in the list, its a great EP. Might i suggest an honourable mention for if not the origin of aggressive female rock guitarists probably the most influential that being Miki "Sun-go" Igarashi of Show Ya who along with the band has been inspirational to female rock in Japan.

[@AxeJapan]

It's great seeing so much love for Narumi! It's a masterpiece of an ep. I approve of your honorable mention, she's awesome 👌

[@玄烏-k4d]

Kanamintyo is My No.1❗️

[@airlinesecret6725]

Great as usual. Would be very interested where you would be rating them against all ( including the guys) Japanese Guitarists.

[@AxeJapan]

Thanks! I'll maybe mention something like that when I do the top 5 male guitarists 🙂

[@pervangtoft2184]

Good choices, though I don`t agree entirely, but your viewpoint is probably more technical than mine, cause I have never played guitar, so I`m judging more from a view of their entertainment value and showmanship. I fully agree with Kanami, SAKI and Tomo-Zo on the list, my favorites too. Then I would have choosen Myiako (Lovebites) and Toki (Aldious) and maybe a dark horse like Yashiro right up there. She is such a great guitarist, and always just standing in the back doing her stuff and keeping the rhytm, while SAKI plays all the solos. Nahrumi is also very good though, did you know she was maternity replacement for Toki in Aldious on their US gig at the NAMM convention at Hilton in Anaheim 2020 ? She just fitted right in, and it was a great succes. Anyway there are so many great japanese female guitarists, so we could all make a list of 10 or 20 and still miss some.

[@bishopsteiner7134]

So many good guitarists... get a feel you're not much a fan of the ladies from Lovebites, but such is life. It's hard to pick and choose with so many great players in Japan these days, especially women. Also can't argue with Kanami as top pick. She's just.. the most diverse and expressive of the guitarists I've heard from Japan.

[@AxeJapan]

I do really like Midori and Miyako but I’m not a huge fan of Lovebites. I preferred the bands they were in before 😂

[@metalfriend6110]

👍❤ I LOVE THEM ALL!!! 👍❤

[@COTTERO]

Cool list, my only complaint is... why just five? This is my top ten 1.Saki (Mary's Blood/ Nemophila) 2.Yuki (D-Drive) 3.Hazuki (Nemophila/ Li-sa-X Band) 4.Kanami (Band-Maid) 5.Tomo-Zo (Doll$Boxx/ Gacharic Spin) 6.Haruka Noma (Asterism) 7.Li-sa-X (Li-sa-X Band) 8.Rie a.k.a Suzaku (Rie a.k.a Suzaku Band) 9.Yashiro (Mary's Blood live) 10. Sakura (Hagane) 👍🎸👌🎸✌🎸

[@AxeJapan]

😂 you're right! It's so difficult but I just like the challenge of the top 5. Thanks for your great list!

[@jonasw3945]

Can't wait to see the male guitarist list, that one should be more intersting considering how much there are. Hope to see Syu

[@TheCyberMantis]

Syu, absolutely.

[@Sifuben]

Syu is a must

[@arenjamir4119]

Syu all the way

[@AxeJapan]

Spoiler alert .... of course Syu is in it!😄

[@glenkelley6799]

I wonder if Mikio Fujioka could get a mention posthumously

[@Frisbieinstein]

My fave is Yuki of D_Drive. I have seen them live and yes, they really can play like that.

[@sta-prest]

Mincho! Mincho! Mincho!

[@TheHokkaidogaijin]

Love Haruka she is so amazing Motoko "Motifour" Kida from Tricot is also amazing

[@AxeJapan]

Yes definitely!

[@bostonbesteats364]

That Yamaha Pacific 611 is better than a MIA Fender American Professional II at 40% of the price. Hal-ca knows her guitars

[@rakjr6]

Yeah, it is a hard thing to do. There are just so many terrifyingly good guitarists. Some sources (like AVO Magazine ) say Hal-ca is pronounced ha-ru-ka. Her given name is Haruka. Japanese often replace L with Ru in English loanwords so she has just reversed that process. Just like Miku Kobato's Cluppo is pronounced Kuruppo.

[@AxeJapan]

You are right that is her name. I actually wrote it as Haruka in the video in the little tag that popped up at the Strat of the clips but then forgot to pronounce it the right way when I filmed the talking lol

[@kashimakouichi3788]

I agree exactly!

[@danjoseph7515]

Thought you'd enjoy this vid of Kanami inserted into a scene from "Back to the Future". It illustrates the split personality you referred to in a hilarious way that cracks me up every time I watch it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmWxf59-i5ufh7M

[@AxeJapan]

I’ve all ready seen this😊 it’s amazing 😂

[@ChadTheDragonLord]

Midori and Miyako deserve more credit. Miyako's solos are filled with emotion and feeling and she can shred. Does she get bonus points for being a master on the piano too?

[@AxeJapan]

I do really like her playing, she's amazing!

[@AngelLWJ]

It’s really difficult for me to rank the best 5 female guitarists, because Japan has too many good female guitarists. If I have to choose, hal-ca and saki, the other 3 are really hard for me to choose😂

[@virajelix]

LIVE FOREVER GODDESS KANAMI!!!

[@bigbrutalbassbeer410]

Recently, Haruka cemented herself as my #1 favorite. Just immensely impressive and passionate playing.💪🏻🤘🏻 Edit: SHOUT OUT TO YUKI FROM D_DRIVE!! She’s fookin’ amehzin’.

[@knightofthefivemaids]

The world needs more Kanami tonos in it. The world would be so much a better place. She a great person and beautiful human

[@AxeJapan]

Amen

[@knightofthefivemaids]

@@AxeJapan Saki too I absolutely love her talent and personality another beautiful human

[@kujakolli833]

The old list was great and so was this new one. Tomo-zo is my first choice and if we look at Angie’s look in this video, she is very good at teaching too... Have to love that prank queen

[@AxeJapan]

I would love a guitar lesson from Tomo-Zo 😁🤩

[@markyg236]

Hal-Ca plays like I wish Tina S had progressed to.

[@teikpohsee5356]

You missed out the Guitar Goddess of Japan, Yuki of D_Drive who would be number one on my list. My number 2 to 5 are Miyako (Lovebites), Kanami (BAND-MAID), Narumi (ex Disqualia) and Marin Miyazawa (LoVendor). Honorable mentions would be Asaka (TRiDENT) and Sakura Yoshida (Hagane). If you include blues guitarists, there's always Shoka Okubo. I much agree with you that Misato Ono was awesome playing in early Bridear but she has changed direction musically and now also sings (very well too) in English.

[@michaelthain4488]

Wow did not think anyone had heard of Shoka Okubo. What a blues player

[@NerdChannelBrasil]

I have a great fell that Narumi's biggest influence is Kiko Loureiro, just by hear her solo composition.

[@orettinante]

Hal-ca (ASTERISM)

[@princeofcupspoc9073]

You can never be Kanami until you train a pigeon to play guitar.

[@drogonr9318]

Lol. Best comment I've read today. :)

[@estherbrowne2017]

Um 🤔ok😅......😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@akikohorie4764]

It's really wonderful that BEST1 is a BAND-MADE guitar. They are the best in Japan in terms of musicality in Japanese GIRLS Rock BAND. Since it is that guitar, it is naturally TOP1.

[@valunala]

Para mi la mejor es Kanami, las vi en directo en Barcelona ,una pasada, Bajista? Misa como no.

[@yerayortiz7285]

Nunca he envidiado a nadie con saña, pero eso está cambiando ahora mismo. Yo añadiría a Akane también porque sin dudas es mi baterista favorita, independientemente del género o etnia. Nunca me ha entretenido tanto escuchar una batería como cuando la veo tocarla, es salvaje y precisa, una bestia intuitiva. En fin, qué bueno ver compatriotas que comparten mis sentimientos sobre la banda 🤘🕊️

[@VladimirChupin]

@@yerayortiz7285 We do share your feelings for BAND-MAID 🤘

[@DavidMISAMISAMISACook]

Mincho Mincho Mincho!

[@chakouyang2545]

You got it right this time she a amazing guitarist

[@jonasw3945]

Nice list, I agree with you on some but I disagree on you not including any Lovebites, maybe you've just not seen enough of them. Miyako should be way higher on the list My ranking would be : 1 - Miyako 2 - Kanami 3 - Midori 4 - Tomo zo 5 - Hal-Ca & Saki

[@TheCyberMantis]

Midori too!

[@jonasw3945]

@@TheCyberMantis yeah of course, added her as 3rd too

[@AxeJapan]

I know Midori and Miyako well, I have been fans of them before Lovebites even existed and I know they are phenomenal players. I just prefer the other guitarists on the list. Just my taste. Thanks for you're list!🤘

[@JoeSzilagy]

When visiting London, from Toronto in October of 2019, I also saw some friends (RieTomimatsu- aka: 'Rie aka Suzaku', Juna Serita, Kanade Sato and Marie Fukai) who were playing at a Japanese metal festival there. Rie's band was sort of a fusion/semi-prog instrumental band. I believe Mary's Blood played there too, and I recall really liking them.

[@AxeJapan]

I was there too! Metal Matsuri 😃 yeah she was great! All the bands were 🤘

[@CaffeineNightOwl]

1.Narumi 2.Hal-ca 3.Miyako 4.Hazuki 5.Yuki_d

[@jimcarmer1685]

Oh My. All These Ladies Are So Musically Talented. But I am a Kanami Fan Since Day One. So Musically Talented and Such A Talented Writer of Music.

[@robertturner8040]

There all unbelievable i could easy do a top 20 the only one i would squeeze in at the moment is D-Drive Yuki i have been following her and she is doing some how two play videos as well giving back .

[@Dead-Eye]

Kanami is a great choice. Personally I prefer Saki's style but I certainly wouldn't say she's *better* than Mincho - they're just very different. Luckily, we don't have to choose as we are blessed with both. As for guitarists to learn from, I think Mincho is an inspiration for inventive and individual solos but Saki probably has the cleaner technique with more conventional thumb position and fewer flying fingers. Both are amazing.

[@jefffenn3378]

brilliant mate Kanami's song writing is amazing. love Saki to. Tomozo just brilliantly bonkers cute funny and awesome player .they are all so good

[@toqtoq9094]

I'm japanese. It's a good list. But it was a little surprising that Lovebites wasn't ranked in. Let me introduce you to some great guitarists. However, the genre is not limited to rock. Everyone chose from popular rock bands. So I'm a little maniac from a Japanese point of view. 1. Kaori Muraji 村治佳織 She is probably the most famous female guitarist in Japan. When asked who is the best female guitarist, I think her. 2. Fumika Asari 浅利史花 She has great tones and techniques. She is a young jazz guitarist who will become popular in the future. 3. Maisa Tsuno 津野米咲 She is a guitarist in a band "Akai Koen 赤い公園". Unique code work and cutting. Also a great composer. She unfortunately died in 2020 at the age of 29. I hope many people will know about Japanese female guitarists. Thanks !

[@lonniekramlich6241]

It's hard to argue with, "Shorty " at #1. I would put her musicality.....up against anybody..... much love Kanami 😎

[@AxeJapan]

😂 shorty

[@bishopsteiner7134]

Good list. the Problem for me is that there are almost too many amazing Japanese female rock/metal musicians these days to keep track of, though just my opinion (and as such worth less than the electrons required to type it, lol) I have trouble thinking of "Top Japanese Female Guitarists" without the dynamic duo of Miyako and Midori from Lovebites. Who, to my ear play the best tandem leads since Judas Priest and Maiden. But that's why it's your list, not mine, lol. :P Great list and Haruka was new to me so I'll check em out! But totally agree with Kanami as the top pick... not the outright flashiest "shredder" but her composition, technique, phrasing, etc are so standout from the pack it's not even funny. And then to be backstopped by equally dynamic and original drums and bass? It's almost not fair. Top 5? Offhand, I just have my top 3 (Kanami, Midori, Miyako), ATM, still exploring to see who else long term resonates with me.

[@cepho8349]

I mean, this is about the best female guitarists. Not about compositional skills. The rest of the band shouldn't matter either.

[@drogonr9318]

What a great list. It's like the guitar gods stuck their finger on Japan and declaimed, "Let us reincarnate on this island, at this time, and as females." As far as my personal favorite, it's an easy pick: Mincho. Somehow when Mincho was being re-birthed, a songwriting goddess got jealous and decided to incarnate her as well.

[@AxeJapan]

😂 I think you might be right! Though make sure you check out my top 5 male guitarists video too, there's some gods there aswell! It will be up later

[@edwardbarnes3389]

I have to agree KANAMI is just fantastic follows no musical rule's !

[@arenjamir4119]

Glad to see Hal-ca on this list

[@fwang3023]

One thing though, "cha" in Gacharic Spin pronounces the same as that in "chapter" rather than "character"😁 (Taking its name from the word, “Gacha,” derived from the Japanese word gacha-gacha, meaning “clattering")

[@fwang3023]

oh and I particularly like how TOMO-ZO uses harmonies and maybe the pedal? LOL

[@AxeJapan]

Thank you! I've always had trouble with their name 😅 Yes she definitely uses an octave pedal to get a low and high note at the same time 👍

[@philipcable7518]

A great list! I wasn't sure Kanami was on it (silly me). I don't play guitar and I've even been looking at effects pedals.

[@AxeJapan]

Thank you! 😂 that's cool, imagine what its like for someone who does play guitar! Its a serious addiction 😅

[@barryfox8464]

I used to have Kanami as my favorite guitarist until I discovered Tomo-Zo - This lady can play any style with such precision and finesse, all with huge grin on her face for every second. She can shred when needed, sing lead or backup and put on an amazing show. Her work with Gacharic spin and Doll$boxx covers all the bases, jazz, fusion, funk, punk, blues, rock, techno, and more

[@cl0k3]

The bassist version better have kiyoshi. She toured live with friedman and boy is she really good (and claypool sounding)

[@AxeJapan]

I've Kiyoshi! She would be on the list for sure

[@semiemi]

Yuki from d-drive didn't make your top 5? I think she is amazing.

[@AxeJapan]

She is! She was in my previous top 5 video, she would be number 6 now 😄