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[Gets you grooving] Upbeat Japanese songs. Tracks that make you feel happy.

What kind of song makes you want to groove? Everyone has different points that make a song feel good, but in this article, we’ll introduce music for those looking for Japanese tracks with great rhythm.

In the J-pop scene, there’s been a notable rise in dance-infused songs and tracks that make you want to move, influenced by social media.

Alongside those danceable hits, we’ve picked out songs that make you want to groove and feel great.

You might find yourself humming along or swaying before you know it! Enjoy while paying attention to the rhythm points you love!

[Easy to groove to] Upbeat Japanese songs. Tracks that make you feel happy (21–30)

rayBUMP OF CHICKEN

This is a BUMP OF CHICKEN song whose dazzling synthesizer tones sound as if heralding the arrival of the future.

The track is the title song of the album “ray,” released in March 2014.

At first listen it’s bright, pop-infused digital rock, but its lyrics gently embrace the shadows of farewell and pain.

The message from Motoo Fujiwara, who wrote and composed the song—that goodbyes are connected to encounters—resonates in the transparent sound.

You want to move beyond the past, yet you don’t want to forget your precious memories.

When you listen in such a complicated state of mind, doesn’t it make your heart feel a little lighter?

Can I visit you with cream?zutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

ZUTOMAYO “Can I Come See You With Cream?” MV (ZUTOMAYO – CREAM)
Can I visit you with cream?zutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

This song questions what the world takes for granted and teaches the joy of imagination.

It’s a work by ZUTOMAYO and was chosen as the theme song for NHK General’s “Weekly Info Charge! Chirushiru.” The lyrics are striking for their message about the importance of feeling that things aren’t just black or white, zero or one hundred.

Although it’s a theme song for a children’s program, it offers fresh insights for adults as well.

It’s a song I’d recommend listening to when you’re struggling with relationships.

FUN! FUN! FUN!GENIC

GENIC /「FUN! FUN! FUN! 」Official Dance & Lyric Video
FUN! FUN! FUN!GENIC

It’s a poppy, energetic dance track that sings about the excitement of everyday life.

Created by GENIC, it was released in October 2024.

It’s also featured as the commercial song for Laguna Ten Bosch, a popular resort in Aichi Prefecture, and the track shimmers like an illumination display.

Its brisk rhythm and refreshing melody are captivating, and you’ll find your body naturally starting to move as you listen.

The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of enjoying the present, carry a youthful, positive message that warms the heart.

It’s the perfect song for when you’re feeling down or need a boost of energy.

If I could become a constellationkessoku bando

[LIVE Footage] Kessoku Band “If I Could Become a Constellation” LIVE at Shuka Festival / In-Show Song from “Bocchi the Rock!”
If I could become a constellationkessoku bando

It’s a fun, upbeat track that brings a smile to your face.

It’s an in-anime song by Kessoku Band, released in December 2022 for the TV anime “Bocchi the Rock!”.

The lively 16-beat groove, funky guitars, and slap bass create an energetic vibe.

The lyrics celebrate the importance of friendship and camaraderie, and it’s striking how each band member’s individuality and bonds are likened to constellations.

It’s the kind of song that makes you feel like looking up at the night sky and making a wish.

With its youthful, pop-rock sound, it’s perfect to listen to with friends.

Lucky (feat. UMI)Nulbarich and Sunny

[Official] Nulbarich and Sunny – Lucky (feat. UMI)
Lucky (feat. UMI)Nulbarich and Sunny

A track that paints a picture of young people celebrating freedom and adventure over an upbeat groove.

Nulbarich’s breezy sound pairs perfectly with soulful vocals from Sunny and UMI.

Released in May 2024, this song is a collaboration with the Pokémon series.

Blending city pop and R&B, it carries a positive message over a comfortably smooth rhythm.

It’s the perfect companion for your commute to school or work.

You might find your body naturally swaying as you listen! Be sure to check it out to kickstart a brand-new day.

Life is tough, no money.Uesaka Sumire

Sumire Uesaka “Life Is Hard Dame Dinero” Music Video
Life is tough, no money.Uesaka Sumire

It’s a high-energy denpa-style song by Sumire Uesaka that feels like an explosion of energy.

It portrays a powerful protagonist who gives their all to enjoy every day, even without money.

Even the pressing worry of being chased by bills gets laughed off with mantra-like phrases—before you know it, you’re captivated by that boundless cheerfulness.

Released in October 2021 as Uesaka’s 12th single, the track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime “The Great Jahy Will Not Be Defeated!” Listening to this song might just give you the courage to overcome hardships.

monsterYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Monster” Official Music Video (YOASOBI – Monster)
monsterYOASOBI

Set to a bright, rhythmic sound, this song tackles heavy themes.

It was chosen as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime BEASTARS and released in January 2021.

The 16-beat chorus feels great, dynamically expressing the exhilaration and inner conflict of love.

YOASOBI’s unique worldview pairs perfectly with the electronic sound, making it impossible not to sway along.

It has been highly praised overseas as well, ranking fifth on Time magazine’s Top 10 Best Songs of 2021.

It’s the perfect track for when you need a boost.