The Rough Guide to the Music of Japan is a world music compilation album originally released in 1999. Part of the World Music Network Rough Guides series,[1] the album presents an eclectic mix of the music of Japan ranging from traditional Japanese music (including Ryukyuan and Ainu music) to J-pop by artists of the 1990s.[2]

The Rough Guide to the Music of Japan
Compilation album by Various artists
Released	20 April 1999
Genre	World, Japanese
Length	77:30
Label	World Music Network
Full series chronology
The Rough Guide to Tango (1999) The Rough Guide to the Music of Japan (1999) The Rough Guide to World Music: Africa, Europe and the Middle East (1999)
Complete list

Liner notes were written by Paul Fisher, a journalist and broadcaster specializing in Japanese music and founder of Far Side Music.[3] Phil Stanton—co-founder of the World Music Network—produced the album.[4] This release was followed by a second edition in 2008.

Critical reception

Professional ratings

Review scores
Source	Rating
Allmusic	[2]

Alex Henderson of AllMusic called the album an "interesting and eclectic survey" that, like other albums in the series, "keeps us guessing and provides a variety of rewarding music along the way".[2]

Track listing

References