[Hit Songs of 2010] A Roundup of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks!
Do you remember which songs lit up Japan’s music scene in 2010? Timeless masterpieces and hits that still bring back the excitement of those days, even as the years pass.
In this article, we’ve gathered 2010 releases that became hit songs—from tracks featured in TV commercials and drama theme songs to popular tunes everyone sang at karaoke.
Just hearing them is sure to stir nostalgic memories for many! Please enjoy them along with music videos that capture the spirit of the times.
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[Hit Songs of 2010] A Showcase of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks (1–10)
meteorKobukuro
Ryusei is Kobukuro’s 19th single, chosen as the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama of the same name.
It’s a wistful yet romantic ballad that likens the couple’s future to a constellation.
Listening to it while gazing at the starry sky might enhance the mood even more.
I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi
Folk duo Billy BanBan’s classic “Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru” has been covered by enka singer Fuyumi Sakamoto! The lyrics, delicately portraying the uniquely Japanese subtleties of emotion and scenery, pair beautifully with Sakamoto’s fragile, sultry voice.
It’s also fun to compare the nostalgic original with the passionately persuasive cover.
I’ve always liked you.Saitō Kazuyoshi
Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature song “Zutto Suki Datta” was released in April 2010.
It was originally written as a song for Shiseido’s IN&ON commercial, but it became a long-running hit and is now one of his most representative tracks.
It’s also a karaoke staple.
[2010 Hit Songs] A roundup of nostalgic Japanese tracks! (11–20)
SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
This song was written as the main theme for the film Solanin, starring Aoi Miyazaki and Kengo Kora.
Released in March 2010, the film also drew attention for being the first ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION song with lyrics penned by someone outside the band.
Contrary to the glittering image often associated with youth, it portrays anxieties about the future and the pain of parting.
Yet it doesn’t simply sink into sorrow; its strength in affirming farewells and facing forward is deeply moving.
The fact that it topped a fan poll in September 2013 is proof that this work has resonated with many people.
StrongerEXILE
This is an emotional ballad by EXILE that moved many to tears as the theme song for the film “THE LAST MESSAGE Umizaru,” which portrays the passionate human drama of Japan Coast Guard officers.
With strongly message-driven lyrics that sing of deep bonds between people and a firm resolve toward the future, the song’s grand melody—spanning over seven minutes—strikes straight to the heart.
Released in September 2010 during the group’s 10th anniversary year, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
Many listeners were surely moved by the interplay of ATSUSHI and TAKAHIRO’s emotional vocals.
BLESSL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
In the winter of 2010, many of you may remember it as the theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Vancouver Winter Olympics.
Created by L’Arc〜en〜Ciel, one of Japan’s leading rock bands, it’s a grand and beautiful piece.
The song carries a heartfelt blessing and prayer for those who single-mindedly strive for glory.
No matter the difficulties, the strong belief in the brilliant future that lies ahead stirs the hearts of listeners.
Released in January 2010, the track reached No.
2 on the Oricon weekly chart.
When you’re working toward a big goal or sincerely wishing for someone’s success, listening to it will fill your heart with a warm sense of inspiration.
companion; comrade; friend; fellow; teammate; allyKetsumeishi
This is a song by Ketsumeishi that passionately teaches us that kindness isn’t just about comforting each other—it’s about the true form of friendship.
The piece portrays a deep bond with companions who share frustrations, encourage one another, and move forward into the future together.
Its straightforward, powerful message really resonates.
In May 2010, it was chosen as the group’s first TV drama theme song for “Hagane no Onna,” generating significant buzz.
Listen to it at graduations or farewell parties, and memories with your friends will come flooding back, making it all the more moving.
How about throwing your arms around your closest friends and belting it out together?