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Classic Japanese a cappella songs: popular tracks that feel great to sing

When you hear the word “a cappella,” what songs come to mind?You probably imagine the beautiful harmonies of a vocal group.Of course, there are songs by artists like The Gospellers who focus on a cappella, but even in various genres—pop, R&B, rock—you can often find elements that feel a cappella at their core, with unaccompanied, voice-only performances as the foundation.Here, we’ll pick out famous Japanese songs where you can really feel those a cappella elements!When you’re in the mood to be soothed by beautiful voices, be sure to find a favorite track from this playlist.

Classic Japanese a cappella songs: Popular tracks that feel great to sing (21–30)

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Sakura (Cherry Blossoms) - Solo - Naotaro Moriyama - LIVE
Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Because the harmonies feel so good and the song is well put together, this piece is often transcribed and covered by a cappella groups.

Many people are surely encouraged by Naotaro Moriyama’s powerful singing voice.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to not only in spring or during the cherry blossom season.

My First Kissanshin papa

[LIVE] Masayoshi Yamazaki – My First Kiss
My First Kissanshin papa

It’s a classic tune that everyone has heard at least once.

Featuring distinctively detuned vocals, this song was released as an anime theme, and it drew huge attention at the time because the singer’s identity wasn’t revealed.

Since then, various artists have covered it, and it’s often arranged for a cappella as well.

A cappella masterpieces of Japanese music: Popular songs that feel great to sing (31–40)

The One and Only Flower in the WorldLittle Glee Monster

Their harmonies are so refreshing that I hope they will continue to take on covers of various songs like this, just as much as their original tracks.

This song, “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana” (The One and Only Flower in the World), was released by SMAP and later drew attention for being included in high school music textbooks.

Between the Sky and YouNakajima Miyuki

Between the Sky and You – Miyuki Nakajima [A Cappella]
Between the Sky and YouNakajima Miyuki

Miyuki Nakajima’s classic “Between the Sky and You” is also one of those songs that really shine in a cappella.

Because its message is so strong, many a cappella groups and clubs choose it for their repertoire when they want listeners to really take it in through an a cappella performance.

flying getAKB48

Flying Get / AKB48 / A cappella cover
flying getAKB48

By making it a cappella, the punch surprisingly gets stronger and the result is really cool—this song, in particular.

Compared to the original, the soulful vibe comes to the forefront and feels very pleasant.

Among AKB’s songs, “365 Nichi no Kamihikouki” is often chosen for a cappella copies and covers, but please give “Flying Get” a try as well.

An unexpected giftOhnuki Taeko

This song is sprinkled with Taeko Onuki’s signature touches everywhere.

The original version—just a single piano and her voice—quietly seeps into your heart.

Rather than showcasing a large ensemble of harmonies, the songs that are covered and copied simply in a cappella have their own flavor, and this one is truly moving.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)chikin gari kku suteeki

With its emotionally resonant, beautiful harmonies, this song is a ballad that gives you the courage to keep walking the journey of life.

The lyrics embrace themes like “striving to move forward even if you’re clumsy” and “the strength to keep smiling even when you’re hurt,” gently giving listeners a supportive push.

Included on the album HOME released in December 2013, it was later re-recorded for the 25th-anniversary self-cover album Chikigarhythm.

It’s a perfect track for those who want to enjoy the masterful harmonies of Chicken Garlic Steak, or anyone looking for an a cappella song to turn to when feeling lost in life.