Some notable musicians and music bands that represent Japanese Folk music include:

Harumi Miyako - Recognized as an iconic figure in Japanese folk music, Harumi Miyako's soulful vocals and extensive repertoire showcase her mastery of traditional folk songs, evoking a sense of nostalgia and cultural heritage.

Oki Kano - Hailing from the indigenous Ainu community, Oki Kano is a talented musician who skillfully combines Ainu music with elements of reggae and dub, creating a unique and captivating fusion that celebrates the cultural traditions of his people.

Sachiko Kanenobu - A key figure in the 1970s folk movement in Japan, Sachiko Kanenobu's introspective songwriting and melodic compositions captured the spirit of the era, making her a revered name in Japanese folk music history.

Wataru Kousaka - A renowned folk singer-songwriter, Wataru Kousaka captivates audiences with his heartfelt lyrics, gentle melodies, and soulful vocals, painting vivid stories of love, nature, and everyday life in Japan.

Akiko Yano - While primarily known for her contributions to the pop and rock genres, Akiko Yano has also ventured into the realm of Japanese folk music, infusing her unique musical sensibilities and poetic lyrics with elements of traditional folk sounds.

The Yoshida Brothers - This dynamic duo consisting of Ryoichiro and Kenichi Yoshida are virtuoso performers of the shamisen, a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument. They combine their exceptional skill with contemporary arrangements, creating a fusion of traditional and modern sounds that captivate listeners.

Overall, these artists have helped to keep the rich history and culture of Japanese Folk music alive and thriving.

A few of the more popular songs and music albums that represent this traditional genre include:

"Sakura Sakura" (Song) - This beloved Japanese folk song, often associated with cherry blossoms, features delicate melodies and poetic lyrics that capture the ephemeral beauty of nature.

"Oborozukiyo" (Song): This hauntingly beautiful folk song, often performed with traditional instruments like the koto and shamisen, captures the bittersweet essence of a moonlit night.

"Japan: Traditional Vocal & Instrumental Music" by Ensemble Nipponia (Album) - This album by Ensemble Nipponia showcases a diverse range of traditional Japanese vocal and instrumental music, featuring captivating performances that embody the rich cultural heritage of Japan.

"Satsuma biwa" by Kinshi Tsuruta (Album) - Kinshi Tsuruta's album "Satsuma biwa" highlights the mastery of the satsuma biwa, a traditional Japanese lute-like instrument, as she skillfully performs classical compositions, immersing listeners in the world of ancient Japanese storytelling.

"Echoes of Japan" by Minyo Crusaders (Album) - "Echoes of Japan" by Minyo Crusaders presents a dynamic fusion of traditional Japanese minyo (folk) music with contemporary elements, creating a lively and vibrant album that pays homage to the roots of Japanese folk while incorporating modern influences.

There are several music festivals and events that represent the Japanese Folk music genre. Among them are:

Aomori Nebuta Festival: A vibrant event in Aomori City, featuring nebuta floats, traditional folk music, and energetic taiko drumming.

Sado Island Earth Celebration: Organized by Kodo, this festival on Sado Island combines traditional Japanese folk music, including taiko drumming and shamisen, with world music performances.

Gion Festival in Kyoto: One of Japan's historic festivals, it showcases traditional music and dance, including the iconic Yamaboko Junko procession with massive floats and captivating performances.

Overall, these festivals and events provide a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese folk music and culture.