Latest Japanese music releases [March 2026]

Even so, the shopping streetMoriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama / “Saritote Shopping Street” Music Video

Starting with a rakugo-style narration and a sound brimming with festivity, this track leaves a strong impression with its lively development that follows.

The lyrics humorously depict vanishing landscapes, and despite their tinge of melancholy, they may also feel like a warm message.

The somewhat wistful melody is addictively memorable, isn’t it? This song is included on Naotaro Moriyama’s album “Yeeeehaaaaw,” released in October 2025.

Though it’s an album track, it has drawn major attention, with its music video—shot in a real town—becoming a hot topic.

It’s recommended for those moments when you want to reflect on the good old scenery while sensing the passage of time.

When you want to forget everything for a while and bask in a sense of freedom, be sure to give this one a listen.

Dried fruitSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 “Dried Fruits” Music Video

From an electronic, inorganic-sounding intro, this track pulls you into a dark, mysterious world.

Its cynical lyrics, depicting the passage of time as freshness slips away, are bound to resonate with anyone who’s gone through the same experience.

Formerly known as Keyakizaka46 until their 2020 name change, Sakurazaka46 has continued to captivate fans with an atmosphere that sets them apart from conventional idol groups.

Featured on their 14th single, “The growing up train,” released in March 2026, this song is centered by 3rd-generation member Miwa Murayama, delivering a number that conveys the group’s momentum and future.

It’s a modern pop tune perfect for those who want to bask in a cool, solitary mood.

LET YOU GOBi-rei -Bi-ray-

Bi-ray / LET YOU GO (Official Music Video)

A heart-wrenching ballad that captures emotions swaying between the happiness of the past and the reality of parting.

While holding onto the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment, it ultimately conveys a down-to-earth resolve to let go and move forward on one’s own path.

With overwhelming vocal power intertwined with delicate expression, it evokes not only sadness but also a palpable heat and strength.

This work is by the girls’ vocal group Bi-ray, with an average age of 15, produced by YOSHIKI.

Following their world debut with “Butterfly” in June 2025, it was released in March 2026.

When you want to sever ties with an unforgettable past and take a fresh first step, this piece will gently give you a push.

My PlaceFuji Kaze

My Place

This song, whose lyrics blend English and Japanese to resonate with a multicultural stage, wraps the intensity and diversity of competition in a warm embrace.

Centered on themes like one’s place within a nation or culture, it’s an emotionally stirring number that moves the heart.

Created by the singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze—who has been sweeping the scene with his diverse musicality—and released for streaming in March 2026, the track drew attention as it was produced for inclusion on the official soundtrack of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

It’s a piece that celebrates those striving toward their goals and lightens the spirit.

Recommended for anyone who wants to savor the exhilaration of an international tournament while listening to something with a distinctive twist.

Super grateful with a smileChou Tokimeki♡Sendenbu

Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu / “With a Smile, Super Thanks” Music Video

The idol group Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu is gaining momentum as their recognition grows both in Japan and abroad.

The song included on their album Tokimeki Egao, released in March 2026, became hugely popular, even hitting No.

1 on the Oricon daily chart.

Marking the milestone of their 10th anniversary year, this track sings about their journey so far and their feelings for the fans who’ve supported them.

With its bright, upbeat melody and plenty of call-and-response parts, it’s guaranteed to get crowds hyped at karaoke with friends or at live shows.

Its euphoric sound lifts your spirits—an ideal pop tune for when you’re feeling down or need a little extra push.

ALL INHANA

HANA / ALL IN -Music Video-

Emerging from a project that teamed up Chanmina and SKY-HI, HANA has been drawing attention for their high-level performance.

Featured near the end of their first album “HANA,” released in February 2026, this track also made waves as the first time all members took on both lyric-writing and composing.

Its message, infused with a fierce resolve to “bet everything,” combines with an aggressive, guitar-driven beat to rouse the listener’s spirit.

The must-see music video—shot by Chanmina herself—captures raw expressions in a hideout setting alongside intense choreography.

It’s an energetic number that’s perfect for those pivotal moments when you need a push or when you want to break out of your shell.

First Love Is a Guaranteed Loss! feat. Marinai Arisu (CV: Reina Ueda)HONEY WORKS

First Love Is a Guaranteed Loss! feat. Marin Ariisu (CV: Reina Ueda) / HoneyWorks

HoneyWorks is a creator unit that continues to express the thrill of youth through music.

“First Love Is a Guaranteed Loss!” is a single released in February 2026.

Produced as a character song for the new series of the Confession Executive Committee, it depicts a responsible class president falling in love.

Reina Ueda, voicing Marin Ari, delivers a delicate performance that conveys a love destined to lose—an emotion that defies logic.

With its catchy, feel-good band sound, this track is a pop number quintessentially HoneyWorks, a group that has captivated many listeners and even won the JASRAC Silver Award in 2024 for “Kawaikute Gomen.” If you want to feel the bewilderment and exhilaration of the very moment you fall in love, this one’s irresistible.

Give it a listen!