In the past, anime songs were often closely tied to the content of their shows and felt somewhat distinct from mainstream J-pop.
In the Heisei era, however, famous artists’ tracks began to be used, and songs written specifically for anime by those artists even became massive hits.
As a result, the nature and reputation of anime songs changed significantly.
This time, we’re introducing anime songs recommended for Gen Z—those who likely spent their childhood or teen years during that era.
From nostalgic tunes to global mega-hits, enjoy the selection!
- Recommended anime theme songs for children: timeless anime song classics you should listen to at least once.
- Only famous artists! Anime songs that energize the Reiwa era
- Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Youth anthems recommended for Gen Z
- [2026] Recommended Anisongs for Middle Schoolers: Theme Songs and Insert Songs from Popular Anime
- When you want to hype it up with your peers! Karaoke songs recommended for Gen Z
- Definitely when you want a boost of power! Energetic songs recommended for Gen Z
- Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
- Recommended anime songs for people in their 50s. Classic and popular anime theme songs.
- For those chasing dreams and goals! Support songs recommended for Gen Z
Global smash hits, too! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (1–10)
Revolutionary Journey – On the WayAina ji Endo
This song, created as the opening theme for Season 2 of the TV anime Dandadan, was written and composed by Aina the End.
It will be released digitally in July 2025, followed by physical releases in two formats—CD and Blu-ray—in September.
Its exhilarating sound layers with a mysterious melody, conveying the protagonists’ determination to fight to protect what’s precious to them in a straightforward way.
As Aina herself says, she “reduced the distortion in her voice and sang straightforwardly,” resulting in a clear and powerful vocal performance.
It perfectly matches the anime’s worldview, where the occult and youth intersect.
It’s a track we recommend when you want to keep moving forward or need a push on your back.
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS
A song by the four-piece rock band RADWIMPS, written as an insert track for the record-breaking hit animated film Your Name.
With lyrics themed around the bond between lovers across time and its exhilarating rock sound, the song spread RADWIMPS’ name to a wide range of listeners alongside the film’s popularity.
Released in July 2016, it spent eight consecutive weeks in the Billboard JAPAN Hot 100 top 10 and claimed its first solo No.
1 on the chart dated October 3.
As a track that symbolizes a film that became a social phenomenon, everyone knows it, and it always gets the crowd going at karaoke.
It’s a song about a fateful encounter and eternal love, perfect for a big sing-along in the chorus.
kaiju (giant monster)Sakanakushon
This is Sakanaction’s first anime tie-in song, depicting the passion and struggles of those who pursue truth.
Released in February 2025, it was chosen as the opening theme for NHK General’s “Chi: On the Movements of the Earth.” Deeply connected to the anime’s worldview, which focuses on people attempting to prove the heliocentric theory, the lyrics convey a strong will to keep seeking the truth even in darkness.
Sakanaction’s unique sound—a fusion of electronica and rock—evokes curiosity and a forward-looking mindset.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to experience that sensation of having your own common sense overturned when you encounter new knowledge.
Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya
Tatsuya Kitani is a singer-songwriter also known as a long-time support member since the early days of Yorushika.
This work was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death.
With lyrics themed around farewells in youth and lost time, it’s sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in July 2023, the song received high acclaim, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 weekly chart.
It’s a must-hear rock tune, woven from a powerful ensemble and Kitani’s soaring vocals.
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA
This is the 15th single by female singer LiSA, which achieved explosive popularity as the theme song for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
Released on CD in July 2019, it became a massive hit that could be called a social phenomenon.
The contrast between the intense rock sound of the A melody and chorus, and the calm section in the B melody, creates exquisite dynamics that maximize the impact of the chorus.
A catchy melody rides over a simple chord progression, and LiSA’s powerful yet delicate vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.
It’s a highly recommended track not only for anime fans but also for rock enthusiasts.
BlessingYOASOBI
Released in October 2022, this song drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury.
Based on Ichiro Okouchi’s original novella cradle planet, the lyrics reflect the bond between the protagonist Suletta and the Gundam Aerial.
Infused with determination for the future and a wish for coexistence, the lyrics convey a strength that says we can support each other no matter which path we choose.
The dramatic development woven by the driving sound and ikura’s clear, translucent vocals is sure to set your heart ablaze.
Featured on the album THE BOOK 3, the track peaked at No.
2 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube.
It’s an energetic number we highly recommend to fans of the Gundam series and anyone seeking a powerful, message-driven song.
One Last KissUtada Hikaru
A digital-only single by the female singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, who made a sensational debut at the tender age of 15 and has released numerous major hits since.
The song was written as the theme for the film Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, released in March 2021.
It features a characteristically rhythmic melody emblematic of Utada’s style, and an outstanding arrangement that gains richness and depth as the track progresses.
Evoking a catharsis that suggests the end of a grand story, it is a piece truly worthy of closing out a work that has captivated fans for many years.