Since the latter half of the 19th century, Japanese classical composers have taken inspiration from western classical music culture to create a variety of original compositions. However, with the exception of works by a few famous figures such as Toru Takemitsu, such compositions have had a limited audience even within Japan. The Naxos Japanese Classics series rediscovers composers such as Akio Yashiro, Saburo Moroi, Hisato Ohzawa, and introduces what is a rich musical repertoire to a much wider audience than before. Many of the works in the collection receive their première recordings. Each album provides detailed and authoritative liner notes, and is supported by fine performances from such distinguished ensembles and conductors as the RTE Orchestra and Takuo Yuasa, the Russian Philharmonic Orchestra and Dmitry Yablonsky.

Explore the Japanese classical soundscape with our fine collection of albums below.

“This ambitious project will introduce our cultural heritage to the world… [I]t achieves a perfect ten in music, performance and sound. I hope that many people will enjoy this special gift.” – Mamoru Shima, Stereo Sound