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Tokyo Song List: Classic Songs About Tokyo

There are so many songs titled “Tokyo,” aren’t there?

This article is a playlist that gathers “songs that capture the air of Tokyo,” including tracks that center on Tokyo and songs whose lyrics mention Tokyo place names.

From major stars to buzzworthy up-and-coming artists, many musicians sing about Tokyo, so be sure to listen and compare.

You can also enjoy each artist’s interpretation of Tokyo—whether it’s songs that evoke homesickness after moving to the city, or ones that convey Tokyo’s stylish vibe.

[Tokyo Song List] Classic Songs About Tokyo (1–10)

Ghost TokyoAyase

Ghost Tokyo / Ayase (self cover)
Ghost TokyoAyase

A song set in nighttime Tokyo that portrays loneliness and a sense of loss while finding hope.

You’ll be drawn into the world crafted by Ayase’s delicate melodies and Hatsune Miku’s translucent vocals.

It’s the title track of the first EP, “Ghost City Tokyo,” released in November 2019, and it was later featured in the smartphone rhythm game “Project SEKAI COLORFUL STAGE! feat.

Hatsune Miku.” In Ayase’s self-cover version, his brisk yet emotional vocals leave a lingering impression.

While capturing the feeling of being swallowed by the noise of the city, the piece resonates with a determination to look forward.

It’s a song with a quietly wistful atmosphere—one you’ll want to listen to while walking through the night city, thinking of someone dear.

Tokyo VICTORYSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Tokyo VICTORY [Official Music Video] Short ver.
Tokyo VICTORYSazan Ōrusutāzu

A number by Southern All Stars created with the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in mind.

It’s packed with excitement that makes you picture the honor of athletes shining at the Games and feel thrilled for that day to come! In addition to various commercial tie-ins, the song was also used during the Asian Volleyball Championship and the World Volleyball tournaments held in 2014 and 2018.

Scattered throughout the lyrics are words that evoke the Olympics themselves and familiar scenes from Japan, conveying a desire to further enliven the Olympics through this music.

TokyoSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER "Tokyo" Music Video
TokyoSUPER BEAVER

The title track of SUPER BEAVER’s 2022 album “Tokyo.” It’s a song that portrays the depth and preciousness of human relationships experienced in urban life.

It speaks to the desire to be loved, the cycle of encounters and farewells, and the value of the connections we form throughout life.

It’s also known for its tie-in with Asahi Super Dry, and the performance with Haruko Nagaya of Ryokuoushoku Shakai on the popular YouTube music channel THE FIRST TAKE drew attention.

Alongside its emotional rock sound, it features a simple yet powerful melody line.

The song resonates with people living in the present day, centering on themes of everyday significance and universal emotions, making it a work that feels close to the listener.

It’s a track that makes you want to cherish your connections with others.

[Tokyo Song List] Classic Songs About Tokyo (11–20)

Tokyoyashiki takajin

This is a number by Takajin Yashiki, who entertained households—especially in Kansai—with his plain-spoken remarks.

Although he’s strongly remembered as a host and TV personality, Takajin actually debuted in show business as a singer.

He continued releasing songs alongside his work as a talent, and among them, this track “Tokyo” stands out for having all its lyrics written in Kansai dialect.

Sung from a woman’s perspective, it portrays a bittersweet farewell to a lover she met in Tokyo.

Despite the female viewpoint of the lyrics, Takajin’s ability to deliver the song so beautifully and movingly is truly stunning.

Tokyo ConcertoMiyamoto Hiroji × Sakurai Kazutoshi

Tokyo Concerto by Hiroji Miyamoto × Kazutoshi Sakurai, organized by ap bank
Tokyo ConcertoMiyamoto Hiroji × Sakurai Kazutoshi

This song, a collaboration between Hiroji Miyamoto and Kazutoshi Sakurai, brilliantly captures the dynamism of Tokyo.

Released in September 2021, it’s characterized by the grand, expansive soundscape crafted by Takeshi Kobayashi.

It weaves together feelings of loneliness and transience amid the city’s inorganic scenery with emotions like dreams, love, pain, and affection, resonating deeply.

The contrast between Miyamoto’s powerful vocals and Sakurai’s delicate voice is also captivating.

Created as part of the ap bank project, the track also prompts listeners to think about environmental protection and social contribution.

Highly recommended for those who want to empathize with the complex emotions of people living in the big city.

Tokyoeastern youth

eastern youth – Tokyo [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
Tokyoeastern youth

eastern youth is a rock band that cemented Japanese guitar rock and left a considerable influence on later generations.

“Tokyo,” released in 2009, is the very essence of Japanese rock that rings with iron.

The cascade of words packed into this song carries the band’s raw energy straight to our ears.

The band arrangement is also superb—the guitar effects, the ebb and flow of the beat—if you want to hear top-tier, gritty guitar rock, this track will not let you down.

Tokyo Rendez-VousKing Gnu

King Gnu – Tokyo Rendez-Vous
Tokyo Rendez-VousKing Gnu

The title track included on King Gnu’s first album.

Through the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and experiences on the train, it captures the city’s distinctive atmosphere.

Centered on rock while incorporating diverse elements such as hip-hop and funk, it showcases their signature “Tokyo New Mixture” style.

Released in October 2017, this song epitomizes the band’s experimental musicality.

Blending the chaos and diversity of urban life with bold new musical approaches, it’s recommended for listeners who want to explore new musical possibilities while feeling the air of Tokyo.