Recommended coming-of-age songs for women

navel orangeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Navel Orange'

A gem of a song infused with a sweet-and-sour freshness and a touch of wistfulness that symbolize the spring season.

With double centers Nagi Inoue and Aruno Nakanishi of Nogizaka46’s 5th generation, it expresses feelings for a lost youth as they look back on past love.

Under the blue sky, the protagonist’s memories of a nostalgic romance vividly come back through the piece of fruit they hold.

Set for release on March 26, 2025, the single will be available in six formats: First-Press Limited Edition TYPE-A through TYPE-D, a Regular Edition, and a Special Edition.

The melody and arrangement carry a sense of nostalgia, with beautiful, Showa-era-style phrasing and a memorable refrain.

It’s a perfect song for anyone experiencing new encounters or farewells with the arrival of spring, or for those who want to bask in bittersweet memories.

How many times have I seen the blue sky?Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'How Many Times Has That Blue Sky Appeared?' Short Ver.

It was released in 2014 as Nogizaka46’s 10th single.

Erika Ikuta served as the center for the song, which is themed around reflecting on one’s present self.

It was used as the commercial song for the HTC J butterfly HTL23 and reached number one on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE

ZONE “secret base ~What You Gave Me~” MUSIC VIDEO

Released in 2001 as ZONE’s third single.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Kids War 3” starring Mao Inoue, it became one of ZONE’s signature songs with sales of 700,000 copies.

It has been covered by many artists and carries a somewhat nostalgic feel.

Unwavering WishTamura Naomi

Naomi Tamura - Unyielding Wish

It was released in 1994 as Naomi Tamura’s fourth single.

The song was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Magic Knight Rayearth, with lyrics and music written by Naomi Tamura.

It achieved million-seller status, and thanks to its success, she performed this song at the 1995 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

I can’t stand that cute girl.narumiya

I can't stand that cute girl – Narumiya

“That Cute Girl I Can’t Stand,” which is going viral on TikTok and YouTube, is a track by next‑gen singer‑songwriter Narumiya.

Set to a driving, Japanese‑tinged sound, it portrays a somewhat downbeat love story.

Narumiya is known for the contrast between her sound and lyrics, and this song stands out even among her works.

Another highlight is the gap between her whispery, girlish vocals and the lyrical content.

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rainbow-coloredayaka

Ayaka / “Nijiiro” (Theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Hanako to Anne”) Music Video (Short Ver.)

This is a love song by Ayaka that exudes the vibe of a great track, thanks to overwhelmingly energetic vocals and a melody line that lingers in your ears.

It’s polished and radiant, with an artistry that resonates well even with junior high school girls, creating a thoroughly pleasing listen.

YELLikimonogakari

Ikimono Gakari YELL 'Ikimono-gakari'

If you listen to this song, I think you’ll feel you’re not alone—whether you’re feeling down or struggling—and it will help you stay positive and keep going.

Goodbyes are sad, but they aren’t sad words.

This song makes you think that way and gives you strength.

I especially recommend it to high schoolers in the midst of their youth.