Reggae and dancehall music, born in Jamaica, have traveled across the globe, finding a unique and thriving subculture in Japan. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Yokohama, the influence of these genres is deeply rooted in Japanese society.
The story of reggae in Japan began in the 1970s. The Pioneers, a soul and rocksteady trio, became the first reggae artists to introduce the genre to Japan, a region with little prior exposure. That summer, they arrived on a promotional tour for their British label, Trojan Records, paving the way for reggae’s rise in the East. Jimmy Cliff followed with performances in Japan during his world tours in 1977 and 1978.
However, it was Bob Marley’s iconic visit in 1979 that truly ignited the nation’s passion for reggae. During his time in Japan, Marley collaborated with renowned percussionist Masahito “Pecker” Hashida, leading to two landmark albums Pecker Power and Instant Rasta, recorded in Jamaica in 1980.

This collaboration marked the start of a lasting relationship between Jamaican and Japanese artists. Today, the bond remains strong, with musicians from both countries blending their styles to create unique sounds. The now defunct annual Yokohama Reggae Sai festival, held between July and September, showcased this deep connection, drawing reggae enthusiasts from around the world.
Initially, reggae’s themes of peace, love, and unity resonated deeply with the Japanese audience. Over time, the genre grew into a homegrown movement, with more than 300 reggae groups and sound systems emerging across the country. This evolution led to the creation of J-Reggae, a subgenre that integrates Japanese culture and language into the music.

Dancehall, reggae’s high-energy cousin, also found a loyal following in Japan. Mighty Crown, one of Japan’s top sound systems, made history by winning the World Sound Clash in 1999, putting Japanese dancehall on the global map. In 2002, Junko became the first Japanese International Dancehall Queen, further cementing Japan’s deep connection to dancehall culture.
Today, dancehall is more than just music in Japan; it’s a lifestyle. From fashion to dance and social media trends, the influence of dancehall is visible everywhere. Japanese dancers like Kenta “Cornbread” Tezuka have gained international recognition, sharing their talent on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Kenta credits his early exposure to reggae and dancehall to his older brother, who frequently played Jamaican music during his childhood.
As we celebrate Reggae Month, it’s a reminder of how reggae and dancehall unite people worldwide. From Kingston to Yokohama, the beats and messages of these genres transcend borders, bringing people together through a shared rhythm and culture.