What are the most popular bands in Japan?

Answer 1

At the moment, Arashi is the most popular band in Japan.

Statistics:

In 2008, they won #1, #2 and #10 best selling single of the year in Japan and #2 best selling music DVD of the year in Japan.

In 2009, they won #1, #2, #3 and #5 best selling single of the year in Japan, #1 best selling album in Japan, #1 best selling music DVD in Japan and #1 best selling overall artist in Japan. They also 10 awards in Japan's Gold Disc Awards (first artists to do so in history) and other awards.

In 2010 (currently) they are the #1, #2 and #5 best selling single of the year in Japan.

Other popular bands in Japan at the moment are KAT-TUN, AKB48, Tohoshinki, Nishino Kana, Kanjani 8, Hey Say Jump!, NEWS, Ayumi Hamasaki, Perfume, Ikimonogakari, Kimura Kaela, Amuro Namie, etc. Check Oricon Japan's most recent sale updates (there's a daily ranking, weekly ranking, monthly ranking and yearly ranking for albums and singles).

See below links for 2009's most popular Japanese bands.