[2013 Japanese Hit Songs] Masterpieces that Colored the Ama-chan Boom, Group Popularity, and the Band Scene
Japan’s music scene in 2013 was truly a year of “diversity” and “phenomena.” The smash hit NHK morning drama Amachan sparked a social phenomenon, with its insert song Shiosai no Memory and its theme song, ushering in a revival boom of 1980s idol pop.
Meanwhile, the idol warring era—led by the AKB48 groups—reached its peak, and Koi Suru Fortune Cookie became a nationally beloved dance song.
In the rock band scene, acts like SEKAI NO OWARI and CreepHyp rose to prominence, with new talent blossoming one after another.
The expansion of the digital distribution market also accelerated, marking a turning point in how people listened to music.
In this article, we look back at the hit songs that colored 2013—from award-winning works to timeless karaoke favorites.
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2014: recommended classics and popular tracks
- 2012 Hit Song Rankings! A roundup of nostalgic classics all at once
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2015. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- Cool songs of the Heisei era. Hit tracks that energized the times.
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
- Heisei-era masterpieces revisited through the hit songs of 2001
- [Hit Songs of 2010] A Roundup of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks!
- AKB48’s classic and hit songs: Relive your youth! A comprehensive introduction to their popular tracks
- 2003 J-Pop hit songs special: the golden age of music when diversity blossomed
- [Also for year-end parties and karaoke song choices] Anime songs that were popular in 2023
- Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days
- Songs that were popular in 2020. A roundup of hit songs from Reiwa 2.
- [2010–2019] A roundup of theme songs from popular dramas
2013 Japanese Hit Songs: Legendary Tracks That Colored the Ama-chan Boom, Group Popularity, and the Band Scene (1–10)
MusicSakanakushon
The single that drew attention in January 2013 as the theme song for the drama “dinner” is a rare work in which Ichiro Yamaguchi’s introspection—why do we make music?—resonates with the professionalism of artisans depicted in the show.
It’s striking for its one-coin 500-yen single concept, whispery vocals recorded in a home apartment, and an evolved form of dance rock where techno and band sounds intertwine.
By stripping away explanation in the lyrics and centering words that surfaced unconsciously, it creates space for interpretation, letting a club-like groove coexist with an introspective message.
Also included on the album “sakanaction” and performed at the year-end NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, this track is one to hear when you feel lost in your daily engagement with music.
Star Lablationkerakera
Released in 2013, this is Kerakera’s second single, which was selected as the theme song for the drama “Last Cinderella.” The song portrays a woman who, though awkward, keeps moving forward with positivity.
Its bright, catchy melody and powerful lyrics are especially appealing.
The message—finding the courage to take a step while laughing through tears, and a smile that shines beyond one’s weaknesses—truly resonates.
MEME’s transparent, airy vocals and the up-tempo sound feel refreshing, and the track proved so popular it earned Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
It’s the perfect song when you want a boost of optimism or to get everyone hyped at karaoke with friends.
Peace and highlightSazan Ōrusutāzu
Released in August 2013 as their first comeback work in about five years, this song is a socially conscious pop number befitting the milestone of their 35th debut anniversary.
A lively rock sound is embellished by a horn section, and the lyrics distinctively take a bird’s-eye view of tensions with neighboring countries and tangled historical perceptions.
It carries a message of reconciliation and peace through learning from the past and recognizing each other’s strengths, and it was also featured in a Volkswagen commercial.
The single reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, achieving a historic first: topping the singles chart across four decades—from the 1980s to the 2010s.
It’s a track that remains keenly attuned to social currents while offering comfort to those who wish to cherish everyday life.
Ninjari Ban Bankyarī pamyu pamyu
This is Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s fifth single, released in March 2013.
It was used as the commercial song for KDDI and Okinawa Cellular’s “au: Turning Surprise into Common Sense – FULL CONTROL/REAL” campaign, and its first performance at a large-scale event held at Zojoji Temple in Tokyo became a hot topic.
Blending traditional Japanese flavors with electro sounds, it’s an oriental pop track with a unique ninja-themed world.
The coined-title by producer Yasutaka Nakata and the catchy melody will stick in your head after just one listen.
The fully CG music video drew a huge response immediately after its release, and the song was later included on the album “Nanda Collection.” It’s the perfect dance tune for when you want to lift your spirits or get a party going.
Rain, then Sunshine Hallelujahyuzu
This is a song that brought warm emotion to living rooms across Japan as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Gochisousan.” Released in November 2013 as a double A-side single with “Mamotte Agetai,” it incorporates the melody of “Sakura-iro no Waltz” by shinobue flutist Kazuya Sato, and weaves in the second movement of Dvořák’s Symphony No.
9 “From the New World” during the interlude.
Set to a lilting 3/4 waltz rhythm, the lyrics sing of hope—that even painful days will surely turn into sunny ones—radiating a gentle, comforting warmth.
When you’re feeling down or overwhelmed by anxiety, the harmonies of this song will surely brighten your heart.