Even beginners can play them easily on the piano! A curated selection of popular and latest J-POP songs.
The piano has such a beautiful tone, and depending on how you play it, it’s a captivating instrument that can produce a grand, resonant sound.
These days, we’re seeing more videos of people casually playing popular J-pop songs at home, as well as impressively performing on street pianos.
Maybe some of you are thinking, “I want to play like that too!”
In this article, we’ll introduce easy-to-play J-pop songs on the piano—perfect for complete beginners or those who’ve just started—along with some of the latest hits.
If you want to try playing your favorite songs or expand your repertoire, be sure to use this as a reference.
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Even beginners can play them easily on the piano! A curated selection of popular and latest J-POP songs (11–20)
A Cheer Song Dedicated to You ~YELL FOR YOU~HIPPY
The signature song by HIPPY, a singer-songwriter from Hiroshima Prefecture, is a powerful anthem cheering on those who are chasing their dreams.
It carries a message that encourages people facing hardships and gives them courage.
Released in March 2017, the piece is notable for its husky vocals and strong lyrics.
It became a hot topic among athletes, students dedicated to their club activities, and people pursuing their dreams, and in 2020 it also gained popularity as walk-up music for professional baseball players in Japan.
Emphasizing the importance of continuing to strive toward your goals, this work gives you the courage to believe in yourself and take a step forward.
It’s a song that even beginner pianists are encouraged to try.
Dried flowersYuuri
The song Dry Flower, which brought Yuuri to wide recognition.
Released in 2020, it portrays the heartrending feelings of a woman who chooses to part ways with her lover after growing apart.
Because the vocal melody is intricate, focus first on just holding the chords with your left hand.
Once you’re comfortable with both hands, gradually start adding a steady accompaniment and try playing with some arrangement.
To play the detailed right-hand vocal melody smoothly, it’s recommended to loosen up your fingers before practicing!
SPECIALZKing Gnu
This song by King Gnu, a four-piece band bringing a fresh breeze to Japan’s music scene, reveals a new charm of J-pop through the piano.
Written specifically as the opening theme for season 2 of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen, it’s an energetic track that reminds listeners of their own worth.
Released as a CD single in September 2023, it fully showcases the band’s distinctive worldview.
When playing it on the piano, firmly keep the left-hand rhythm while expressing a passionate melody with the right hand to bring out the song’s appeal even more.
It’s a recommended piece for those who want to cherish their individuality.
Bye, see you again sometime!Yonezu Kenshi
A song by Kenshi Yonezu, a leading figure in the J-POP scene, was specially written as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Tora ni Tsubasa.” This piece was crafted to match the story of a woman who became Japan’s first female lawyer and later a judge.
Yonezu himself said it was unexpected for him to take on a morning drama theme.
The lyrics express changes in human relationships over time, partings and reunions, and growth within the cycles of life.
The tempo isn’t too fast and the rhythm isn’t complex, making it recommended even for beginner pianists.
Give it a try!
Shape of LoveMISIA feat.HIDE(GReeeeN)
For MISIA, this song is a significant work commemorating her 20th anniversary.
Born from a collaboration with GReeeeN, it explores the theme of love in its many forms, singing about the depth of human bonds and relationships.
The lyrics, set to a light and catchy melody, express feelings for a loved one and the warmth you can feel even when apart.
Chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “Gibo to Musume no Blues” (Stepmother and Daughter’s Blues), it resonated with many listeners.
The song pairs beautifully with a delicate piano tone, and even just playing the melody will surely let you feel the joy of making music.
It’s a piece that beginners at the piano are encouraged to try.
broad daylightKing Gnu
King Gnu’s songs uniquely blend piano technique with a band-driven sound.
A prime example is their track released in February 2019 as the theme song for the Saturday drama “Innocence: False Accusation Lawyer” on Nippon TV.
Its lyrics delicately portray the emotions surrounding wrongful convictions, set to a gentle, memorable rhythm.
Featuring Satoru Iguchi’s tender vocals and captivating piano, the song resonates deeply with listeners.
With themes of life’s choices, regrets, and hope, it’s recommended for a wide range of ages.
Easy Piano Picks for Beginners! Carefully Selected Popular and Latest J‑Pop Songs (21–30)
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
A staple song by Yuzu that was used on NHK as the official theme for the Athens Olympic broadcasts, and is also known because the commentator quoted its title during a gymnastics routine.
It marked a turning point for the duo, shifting from their earlier, simple folk-song image to expressing a grander worldview, making it an important track in their career.
Because of its background, it inevitably evokes sports, but it’s a brilliant cheer song that gives a push to anyone taking on a challenge, in any situation.
