[Food Songs] Popular Japanese songs that use names of foods

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

When everyday familiar things are chosen as the subject of a song, it somehow makes us feel a sense of closeness all by itself.

If a song’s title or theme is food, it’s easier to picture, isn’t it?

This time, under the theme of Japanese music related to food, we’ve put together songs where the very title features food or drink, or the lyrics are connected to food!

From the latest hits to timeless classics and hidden favorites, please enjoy these J-POP gems that might just make your stomach growl.

[Food Songs] Popular Japanese Songs That Use Food Names (71–80)

Let’s eatKoresawa

Koresawa 'Itadakimasu' [Music Video]

Let's eatKoresawa

Food you eat with someone you love tastes extra delicious, doesn’t it? This is a love song that brims with single-hearted devotion to the other person.

It’s a track by Koresawa, a singer-songwriter from Osaka Prefecture, released as a digital single in 2019.

A warm, heartfelt ballad that makes you feel happy just by listening.

It’s a lovely piece that fully showcases her charming, down-to-earth worldview.

Please give it a listen with your significant other—whether you’re a couple, married, or with someone special.

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RicesmileDJ misoshiru to MC gohan

DJ Miso Soup and MC Rice – 'Ricesmile'

RicesmileDJ misoshiru to MC gohan

It’s a song that joyfully conveys how being able to enjoy delicious meals leads to everyday smiles.

The title is a simple play on words combining “rice” and “smile,” and the lyrics are filled with various rice- and meal-related terms.

Its light rhythm and overlapping children’s chorus add to the fun, while also conveying the importance of communication fostered through sharing meals.

It’s a piece that clearly expresses how rice is beloved by people and effectively communicates the importance of rice.

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Blueberry PieYuka

Yuka – Blueberry Pie (Official Music Video)

Blueberry PieYuka

Singer-songwriter Yuka, who spent her childhood in the United States and Switzerland and has experience performing in musicals during her elementary school years.

Her digital single “Blueberry Pie” became a hot topic thanks to sound production by MONKEY MAJIK.

Riding on a stylish arrangement with a touch of Western pop, her vocals reveal Yuka’s depth as an artist and showcase a new side of her.

It’s a chill pop tune with a soft yet cool melody that lingers in your ears.

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Hoshino Takashi

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PeperoncinoLucky Kilimanjaro

Peperoncino

PeperoncinoLucky Kilimanjaro

There’s a song that not only features food but even depicts the cooking process.

It’s called “Peperoncino.” The track is by the electronic music band Lucky Kilimanjaro.

In the song, the steps of making peperoncino are used as a metaphor for taking on life’s challenges and pursuing goals.

It might sound hard to imagine, but it turns into an encouraging anthem that gives a gentle push to anyone who’s stumbled.

The melody has a calm, city-pop vibe, making it a great listen for nighttime or whenever you want to relax.

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Rice is a side dish.Hōkago Tī Taimu

Rice is a side dish.

Rice is a side dish.Hōkago Tī Taimu

A humorous song that sings of boundless love for rice has been born.

Its striking lyrics flip the usual perspective by positioning rice—normally considered a side to the main dish—as the “side dish” itself.

To a breezy pop-punk sound, it rattles off pairings of rice with various foods like ramen and okonomiyaki.

Released in September 2010 as a double A-side single by Ho-kago Tea Time, it reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Also performed during the school festival scene in Episode 20 of the anime K-On!!, the track packs laughter and energy while deftly incorporating Kansai’s food culture.

It’s a perfect number for school festivals and live-event interludes.

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