Akira Sakata (born 1945 in Kure, Japan) is a Japanese saxophonist.
Studied marine biology at Hiroshima university. Formed a group Saibo-bunretsu (Cell fission) in Tokyo in 1969, and was also performing with various free-jazz musicians. Joined Yamashita Yosuke Trio from 1972 till 1979. In 1980 he formed his trio and then a grup Wha-ha-ha, Sakata-Sextet, Sakata Akira and his Da-Da-Da Orchestra.
In 1986, he performed with Last Exit with Bill Laswell.
He works with his regular unit Harpacticoida, trio Sakata Akira mii and also with Kesutoradamashi, by which he has been trying to combine different musicians freely.
He has been well known as an essayist with a unique point of view and writing style. He also appeared in films and on stage as an actor as well.
