[Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now
Beyond the trendy songs you often hear on TV or around town, and the tracks tied in with dramas or anime that everyone knows, there are also hidden gems—songs from before an artist got big or tracks without any tie-ins.
This time, we’ll introduce those hidden masterpieces that are especially popular among the artists’ fans.
Many of these songs don’t get much TV exposure, but they’re well-known among fans—once you listen, you’re sure to get hooked! If you haven’t been exploring or adding new music lately and want something fresh to listen to, this is for you.
I hope you find a new favorite track!
- A hidden gem known only to those in the know. A great J-pop/Japanese song.
- Memorable masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- A catchy tune that sounds familiar
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- Hidden gems of love songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems and lesser-known songs by popular Japanese rock bands
- Hidden gems among tear-jerker songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems of inspirational songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems of healing songs. Recommended popular tracks
- [Cheer Song] A hidden gem that stirs the soul. A rallying anthem known to those in the know.
- [Songs with Great Lyrics] Masterpieces you’ll want to listen to while savoring the words that resonate with your heart
- Nothing but masterpieces! Hit songs from the Reiwa era that are perfect for background music
[Hidden Gems] Japanese songs you’ll want to share with someone right now (111–120)
Because you are hereayaka
It’s a song included on her second album.
The album itself sold very well, so many of you might already know it.
Although she’s known for her gentle ballads, this track emphasizes a bright, catchy, and energetic vibe.
In that sense, I introduced it as a hidden gem! Please enjoy a slightly different, more powerful side of her singing!
Soap Bubble DaysAqua Timez
Aqua Timez is a band that has sung about countless dreams and love.
“Shabondama Days” is the lead track from their second mini-album, Nanairo no Rakugaki, released in 2006.
It’s been a live staple since their amateur days, and its bouncy rhythm and springlike pop feel will lift your spirits.
It’s a breakup song that wishes happiness for the one who’s gone, yet it somehow wraps you in a bright, hopeful mood.
The guitar in the interlude is wonderful as well.
Partings are painful, but this hidden gem of a love song gives you the strength to face forward and move on.
rays of lightB’z
Even if you know the reality and it’s painful, if you can keep moving forward, you’ll surely reach the light… It’s a work that can serve as a guiding principle in life.
This song by the national rock duo B’z is included on their 16th album, “ACTION,” released in 2007.
The lyrics, sound, and vocals convey powerful emotions about what it means to “live,” and they truly give you chills.
The breathtaking guitar solo is flawless, too! When you’re troubled by something, this song might just blow everything away.
Ex-BoyfriendCrystal Kay
A song released as a single in July 2001.
The lyrics tell a bittersweet story about still having feelings for someone she once pushed away, but Crystal Kay delivers it with a super cool vibe.
It’s a stylish classic.
VERBAL from m-flo adds even more coolness with his rap.
Melodic and danceable, it’s a track that makes you want to move.
I Can HearDISH//
DISH// is a dance-rock band formed in 2011 with Takumi Kitamura—who had already been active as an actor and model—as the leader.
Their unique style of performing dances while playing instruments drew attention as something rarely seen before.
In 2020, their 2017 song “Neko” gained buzz after being performed on the YouTube project The First Take.
While “Neko” is a slow-tempo love ballad centered on acoustic guitar, this major debut track features elements like backing tracks and a DJ, highlighted by a heavy guitar sound.
It evokes the feel of mixture rock akin to FLOW or UVERworld, yet its catchy, approachable melodies are truly impressive.
Even listeners who only know “Neko” should give this one a try.
Even now… because I still love you.Every Little Thing
A two-person music unit, Every Little Thing, who have continued to thrive while constantly exploring new directions—from synth-based sounds to a band-oriented and acoustic approach.
This track, included on their second album “Time to Destination,” is also known as a cover of a song that member at the time, Mitsuru Igarashi, provided to actress Megumi Okina.
The ensemble is striking, packed with early-career trademarks: rock-tinged guitars, crystalline synths, and a distinctive vocal timbre you can’t forget after a single listen.
A hidden gem overshadowed by their signature hits, its wistful yet catchy melody lingers in the ear.
canaryGLAY
In the cold season, there are those moments when you suddenly find yourself thinking of your hometown, aren’t there? This is a work that stirs up exactly that kind of nostalgia.
It’s a song by GLAY, a rock band that has been at the forefront of the Japanese music scene for many years, included on their 1996 album BELOVED.
As mentioned above, it’s perfect for listening during the colder months, from autumn into winter.
If you’re someone who left your hometown to chase a dream and now lives elsewhere, it will probably resonate with you even more.