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[1998 Japanese Hit Songs] A roundup of timeless classics that still live on in people’s memories!
GLAY, T.M.Revolution, L’Arc~en~Ciel, MISIA, Morning Musume…
1998 was a year when a stream of timeless hits were born from artists who still enjoy enduring popularity today.
In this article, we introduce standout classics from the 1998 J-POP hit charts—songs that earned overwhelming support from listeners and fans, and continue to do so even now.
Enjoy this nostalgic playlist that still shines in vibrant color.
[1998 Japanese Hit Songs] A Showcase of Unforgettable Classics That Still Resonate Today! (1–10)
HONEYL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
One of L’Arc~en~Ciel’s most popular and well-known songs.
Released in July 1998, it became a major hit and marked the band’s first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Its exhilarating rock sound combined with hyde’s thought-provoking lyrics makes it a track that goes beyond simple sweetness to something genuinely impressive.
TemptationGLAY
Released in April 1998 as GLAY’s 13th single, “Temptation” became a massive hit, selling over 1.62 million copies and topping the Oricon annual singles chart for 1998.
For many people, this is the song that comes to mind first when they think of GLAY.
From its introductory guitar riff, the track delivers a powerful impact and reportedly remains hugely popular at their live shows even today.
To the futureKiroro
“To the Future,” released in June 1998 as Kiroro’s second single.
Filled with gentleness and warmth that seem to brightly illuminate a hope-filled future, this song is beloved as a staple for chorus competitions and graduation ceremonies, and even as a piece that graces bridal scenes.
With lyrics that evoke memories of one’s mother and others who have cherished you, and a sound that feels enveloping, it’s a moving masterpiece that is sure to bring both singers and listeners to tears.
Roller Coaster RomanceKinKi Kids
Have you ever wanted to relive that heart-pounding excitement from the very moment a romance begins? “Jet Coaster Romance” by KinKi Kids is a refreshing youth anthem that likens love’s ups and downs to a roller coaster.
Released in April 1998 as their third single, it was also featured in ANA’s Okinawa campaign commercial.
Its popularity was tremendous, achieving the remarkable feat of three consecutive million-selling singles since their debut.
Play it on a summer trip or drive, and it’s sure to lift your spirits!
for a long timeKiroro
This is the major-label debut song by Kiroro, a duo from Okinawa, whose warm and gentle vocals resonate in the heart.
The simple, airy singing of vocalist Chiharu Tamashiro blends beautifully with the piano melodies played by Ayano Kinjo, gently enveloping the listener.
The song straightforwardly captures, in unadorned words, the steadfast feelings of a protagonist who waits devotedly for the one they love and the joy when that love finally blossoms.
Upon its release in January 1998, its popularity spread by word of mouth, and it became a million seller with total sales exceeding 1.2 million copies.
It’s a song to listen to quietly on nights when you want to reaffirm the tenderness you feel for someone dear.
ALL MY TRUE LOVESPEED
This is SPEED’s eighth single, which was chosen as the theme song for the 1998 FIVB Volleyball World Championship.
Many listeners at the time likely felt their hearts race with its powerful vocals and energetic sound.
Released in October 1998, the single topped the Oricon Weekly Chart for two consecutive weeks.
With lyrics that sing of unwavering, straightforward love, the song can be heard not only as an anthem for athletes striving for victory, but also as encouragement for anyone devoted to love or pursuing their dreams.
When you’re giving something your all or want to lift up someone important to you, listening to it is sure to give you a push forward!
my graduationSPEED
While centered on the theme of parting, this is a quintessential ballad by SPEED that conveys not only sadness but also a sense of hope for the future.
Without using the direct word “graduation,” it portrays the tender yet resolute feelings of a girl who, through the end of a romance, takes her first step into adulthood.
Released in February 1998, the song topped the Oricon charts for three consecutive weeks and was featured in Nissin Foods’ commercial for Nissin Yakisoba U.F.O.
It’s the kind of song that, when listened to as you face a farewell and set out on a new path, gently nudges you forward with its soothing melody and positive message.