Hidden gems of feel-good songs. Recommended popular tracks.
This is a playlist of fun Japanese songs—tracks with witty lyrics or catchy rhythms that will lift your spirits when you listen.
Why not give it a try when you need a boost?
I’ve skipped the usual classics and selected hidden gems instead.
Hidden gems of feel-good songs. Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
New Day RisingSubway Daydream
A four-piece band formed in Osaka, Subway Daydream crafts their sound with the strong bond of twin brothers and a childhood friend.
This track, released as a digital single in May 2023, was written for Kyoto Tachibana University’s brand movie “!? Let’s Go Beyond Expectations.” The refreshing band sound with an alternative edge layers beautifully with vocalist Tamami’s soaring voice, giving listeners a powerful push forward.
The lyrics, which encourage taking on new challenges and stepping into the unknown, may help those weighed down by the May blues shift their mindset in a positive direction.
It’s a fast-paced rock number that blows away gloom and fills you with the energy to start a brand-new day.
FateKato Miria
It’s a powerful track by Miliyah Kato, where the sound of karate uniforms brushing and the fighters’ spirited breathing itself becomes the rhythm.
It was written as the official support song for the Japan Karatedo Federation (a public interest incorporated foundation) and released digitally in March 2021.
It was later included on the album “WHO LOVES ME.” The sound, which fuses the grand resonance of an orchestra with actual competition audio, is overwhelming and stirs the heart just by listening.
Its message is compelling, conveying a strong will to carve out even a predestined fate by one’s own power.
Even on those May mornings when you just can’t get motivated, listening to this song will give you the courage to fight on without giving in.
Japan Cha-Cha-Chadaidarabotchi
It’s a hidden hype track by Daidarabocchi that cranks up the energy using unique turns of phrase centered on the Yamato spirit to fire up Japan.
Because they haven’t had major breakout success yet, it’s a fitting deep cut—an uplifting anthem whose well-honed, hard-earned rap skills deliver a real charge of motivation.
PopNishino Kana
By candidly expressing the mindset of a young woman, this hidden gem by Kana Nishino has resonated with many.
Though it’s less known because she has so many famous songs, it shines with uniquely girly, catchy vocals, and it’s a track you can enjoy as an uplifting, energizing listen.
Tokyo at 7 p.m.Pizzicato Five
This is a hidden feel-good song by Pizzicato Five that, with Shibuya-kei’s distinctive melodic lines and easy-to-remember lyrics, managed to win over a devoted niche of fans.
Its groovy track and stylish worldview are exhilarating, making it the kind of uplifting tune that makes you want to keep having fun even when it’s time to sleep at night.
OneRIP SLYME
This is a hidden feel-good song by RIP SLYME, a rap group that rose to prominence for their pop vibe.
While it has a mellow atmosphere and stands apart from their previous releases with its ballad-like flavor, it’s highly regarded as a masterpiece among core fans and offers an uplifting energy that surpasses its mainstream recognition.
That’s it! We’re AliveMōningu Musume.
A hidden feel-good song by Morning Musume, who have cemented their position as pioneers among idol groups with their powerful performances.
While their other major hits tend to get the spotlight, this track features lively vocals that are wonderfully clear and uplifting, making it a straightforward, energizing song to enjoy.