[1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
Japanese music in the 1970s saw incredible evolution across folk songs, Showa-era pop, idols, bands, and more.
From among them, we’ll introduce classic Japanese hits that everyone knows and that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Many of these songs are still featured on music programs today and are covered by various artists—this song and that song alike.
You might use this list to immerse yourself in fond memories.
Of course, it’s also great for discovering something new.
Please enjoy the many massive hits and wonderful masterpieces that colored Japan in those days!
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[1970s] Collection of Japanese Hit Songs: Nostalgic Classics of Japan (1–10)
To Marie on Fifth AvenuePedoro & Kapurishasu
Formed in 1971.
In 1973, they released many classic ballads such as “Goban-gai no Marie e” (To Marie on Fifth Avenue) and “A Message to Johnny,” featuring Mariko Takahashi as the lead vocalist.
With Takahashi’s assured vocal ability, they deliver a smooth, mature world that is a pleasure to listen to.
TECHNOPOLISYellow Magic Orchestra
A signature track by Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO), who dominated the 1970s music scene with their innovative electronic sound.
Its futuristic cityscape, crafted with synthesizers and drum machines, captivated music fans worldwide as an early pioneer of technopop.
Included on the 1979 album Solid State Survivor, it reached No.
1 on Japan’s Oricon chart and became a major hit, selling over one million copies.
The futuristic musical style and lyrics themed around urban life reflected the era’s optimism about technology.
Foreshadowing the digital age, the song remains as compelling as ever today.
youKozaka Akiko
A classic filled with youthful, pure feelings of love.
Akiko Kosaka’s crystal-clear vocals and unforgettable melody are striking.
It won the Grand Prix at the Yamaha Popular Song Contest in 1973 and was released as a single at the end of the same year.
It became a massive hit, topping the Oricon charts for seven consecutive weeks.
She also appeared in the 25th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1974.
The ideal family envisioned by the 16-year-old Kosaka must have captured many hearts.
This piece is a song imbued with feelings for a future partner—perfect for those who dream of a happy future.
1970s Japanese Hit Songs Collection: Nostalgic Classics of Japan (11–20)
The Bride of SetoKoyanagi Rumiko
A lyrical classic set against the Seto Inland Sea.
Rumiko Koyanagi’s crystal-clear voice beautifully captures the complex emotions of a bride.
Released in April 1972, the song’s lyrics, reflecting Japanese views on marriage at the time, leave a strong impression.
Against a backdrop of seas tinted by the evening glow, it weaves together hopes and anxieties about a new life.
It was so popular that it ranked 7th on NHK’s “200 Showa Songs That Stay in the Heart,” and has been covered by many artists.
It’s best enjoyed while picturing the beautiful scenery of Setouchi.
A perfect track for anyone wanting to savor the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era.
Leave it to me.kurafuto
A four-member folk band that was active for five years starting in 1973, known for a sound that resonated deeply with listeners.
This song was written and composed by Masashi Sada—who was also active at the time as part of the duo Grape—and was released in 1975.
It became a smash hit, selling 500,000 copies.
Whenever I arrive, it’s always raining.Za Moppusu
During the era when Group Sounds were popular, The Mops stood apart as a distinctly psychedelic rock band.
This song was a hit in 1972.
The vocalist, Hiromitsu Suzuki, later found success as a TV personality as well.
applausechiaki naomi
A classic that is almost always featured on special programs about Showa-era pop.
It’s one of Naomi Chiaki’s signature songs, representing Japan’s music scene of the 1970s.
Praised for its dramatic vocal delivery and profound emotional expression, the song was released in September 1972 and won that year’s Japan Record Award.
The contrast between the singer’s radiant presence on stage and the deep sense of loss hidden within is striking.
The lyrics skillfully employ black-and-white imagery to portray the conflict between public and private selves.
It was remarkable in real time, of course, and it may resonate even more emotionally as time goes by.