![[2026] A selection of Japanese songs with cool, striking piano intros!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/SfPkl7lol7g/maxresdefault.webp)
When you hear “a song with an impressive piano sound,” what kind of track comes to mind?
Perhaps a ballad that showcases beautiful tone, or maybe a jazz or classical masterpiece.
In this article, we’re focusing on piano used effectively in rock and pop—especially classic Japanese songs that feature cool, striking piano phrases right from the intro!
We highlight notable recent Japanese tracks, including bands with dedicated keyboardists as well as some unexpectedly piano-forward genres.
Enjoy them as a listener, and if you’re a pianist, try learning them by ear or making your own transcriptions!
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[2026] Picking Japanese songs with cool, striking piano intros (1–10)
FlowerFuji Kaze
This work is notable for its evocative piano tone.
It features melodies that gently seep into the heart and profound lyrics.
Fujii Kaze is a singer-songwriter from Okayama, born in 1997.
He began studying piano at the age of three and gained attention through cover videos on YouTube.
In 2020, his album “HELP EVER HURT NEVER” reached No.
1 on the Billboard Japan charts.
This piece was written as the theme song for a drama, with themes of life, death, and rebirth.
The delicate piano touch and wistful melody express the transience and beauty of life.
The piano intro is also striking.
Please give it a listen!
Aufhebung (Hegelian term often rendered as ‘sublation’)Mrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s song “Aufheben” opens with a piano intro that stirs the emotions.
Its wistful melody line lingers in your ears and is sure to resonate with listeners.
While you catch glimpses of the band’s rock-tinged strengths, the way the piece unfolds around the piano feels remarkably fresh.
Takanori Omori’s lyrics are philosophical and contemplative, yet the introductory piano imparts a gentle warmth that seems to envelop them.
By viewing the piano from multiple angles and adding their own unique interpretation, Mrs.
GREEN APPLE invites you into a distinctive world you won’t find anywhere else.
Tracks of HopeSazan Ōrusutāzu
This song by Southern All Stars, one of Japan’s most iconic rock bands, was released in 1990 as part of a movie soundtrack.
Beginning with a striking piano intro, it’s a masterpiece that fully showcases Keisuke Kuwata’s exceptional songwriting and composing talent.
The lyrics, themed around dreams and hope, portray past experiences and expectations for the future, resonating with many listeners.
You can also feel a love for their hometown of Chigasaki in the words, which weave in scenes of travel and gently accompany the listener, electrifying audiences at live shows as well.
With a profound message that can serve as a guide for life, this song is recommended for anyone who wants to keep moving forward.
Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children
This song was created in August 1994 while staying in Nagoya.
Known as one of Mr.
Children’s signature works, it was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Wakamono no Subete” (All About Young People).
It opens with a striking piano intro layered with Kazutoshi Sakurai’s powerful vocals.
The lyrics sing about the importance of holding on to hope despite anxiety about the future and feelings of loneliness.
Reaching beyond the endless darkness and staying true to one’s convictions, this piece gives listeners the courage to live.
It is a strong yet gentle song that stands by those who struggle with worries and doubts, giving them the strength to keep looking forward and moving on.
Biting the second handzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.
A track that begins with a captivating piano intro and, with the addition of guitar sounds, evokes a distinctive sonic world.
The poetic lyrics woven by vocalist ACA-ne depict universal themes such as heartbreak and loneliness with a fresh, innovative touch.
Released as a digital-download-only single from EMI Records in August 2018, its music video became a major hit, surpassing 100 million views on YouTube in September 2021.
It brilliantly captures emotions that remain unchanged over time, leaving a deep imprint on listeners’ hearts.
Highly recommended for those with a delicate sensibility or anyone seeking innovative musical expression.
I’d rather die.Fuji Kaze
A song by singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze from Okayama Prefecture, included on his 2020 debut album “HELP EVER HURT NEVER.” It opens with an intro marked by distinctive piano tones, followed by Fujii’s expressively rich vocals that resonate deeply.
The lyrics, written in straightforward language, portray the pain of heartbreak and a powerful longing for a loved one.
In July 2022, the song gained traction on social media and drew attention overseas.
Showcasing Fujii’s delicate sensibility and exceptional piano performance, this track is recommended for those nursing bittersweet feelings of love or seeking music with vivid emotional expression.
I wanted to kiss you again.B’z
This is a song composed by Takahiro Matsumoto of the rock band B’z.
It features a beautiful melody that begins with a piano intro, creating a poignant atmosphere together with Koshi Inaba’s vocals.
Included on the album “IN THE LIFE,” released in November 1991, the song is notable for its lyrics that portray a relationship between a man and a woman, from a summer meeting to a winter parting.
The changing emotions of the two are skillfully expressed alongside the shifting seasons, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those who enjoy romantic love songs or are captivated by the beautiful sound of the piano.