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[Great to Listen to and Sing] A Collection of Cool Japanese Songs [2026]

In recent years, J-POP has been attracting global attention, with many Japanese artists—such as Creepy Nuts and YOASOBI—gaining popularity overseas.

In this article, we spotlight the theme of “cool” and introduce the latest Japanese hit songs and fan favorites.

From brand-new tracks to timeless hits that have enjoyed long runs on the charts, we’ve curated a wide selection.

Whether you want to catch up on trends, find songs that will amp up the energy at karaoke, or pick stylish tracks perfect for a drive, this is a must-read for everyone!

[Great to Listen, Great to Sing] A Collection of Cool Japanese Songs [2026] (61–70)

7%Iwamoto Hikaru

Hikaru Iwamoto ‘7%’ Music Video
7%Iwamoto Hikaru

A dance track with a groovy sound and urban sheen, this solo piece showcases the allure of Snow Man’s Hikaru Iwamoto.

With electronic sound design that signals a new frontier for him as an artist, the song exudes mature sensuality, capturing the subtle emotions and push-and-pull of romance.

Featured on the album “THE BEST 2020 – 2025” and tied in with a commercial, it’s one of the standout tracks from the best-of album released on January 22, 2025.

In the music video set in a high-rise apartment, the sleek interplay with dancers and refined choreography leave a strong impression.

Perfect for a night drive steeped in city vibes or for crafting a sensual atmosphere, this is a highly recommended track for those looking to create a stylish, well-curated ambiance.

Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Cry Baby [Official Video]
Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism

It’s the opening theme of the anime Tokyo Revengers.

The song is by the popular band Official HIGE DANDism, known for producing numerous hits, and it was released digitally in 2021.

It’s a highly ambitious piece characterized by repeated key changes as the song unfolds.

It feels like a different scene appears with each phrase.

The lyrics reflect the protagonist’s inner thoughts—enduring pain while vowing, “I’ll get my revenge!”—resulting in a fiery, fighting spirit.

Give it a listen when you want to pump yourself up or ignite your passion.

roarTomonari Sora

Released in October 2025, Sora Tomonari’s “Roar” was selected as the ending theme for the sixth season of the NHK General TV anime Kingdom.

Characterized by its heavy, powerful sound, it makes you feel as if you’re steadily pressing forward, step by step.

The lyrics, themed around the clash of convictions, vividly evoke the heat of the battlefield.

It’s a track I especially recommend to anyone looking to fire themselves up.

Girl is GhostSCANDAL

SCANDAL『Girl is Ghost』 – Music Video
Girl is GhostSCANDAL

Formed in Kyobashi, Osaka in 2006, SCANDAL was recognized by Guinness World Records in August 2023 as the longest-running all-female rock band with the same members.

Released digitally in January 2026, this track is a rock tune that reflects the ever-evolving story of the band.

It connects the “ghost” imagery in the title with nighttime exhilaration and the impulse for self-renewal, elevating it into a thrilling, danceable sound.

It will resonate with anyone who wants to break through their current situation.

Racing into the NightYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Racing into the Night” Official Music Video
Racing into the NightYOASOBI

This is the debut track by the two-person music unit YOASOBI, which was released on a video-sharing site in 2019 and went on to become a huge hit on social media, especially among younger generations.

While the melody evokes the feel of a VOCALOID song, the vocals deliver an accessible performance, and the piano—flashy yet perfectly in tune with the singing—becomes irresistibly catchy, making it a number you’ll want to listen to over and over.

The unique lyrical worldview, based on a novel, gives it a depth of storytelling and expression that you don’t often find in ordinary songs.

Ashura-chanAdo

The lively tones of the horn section are exhilarating! This is a song by Ado, the singer known for the huge hit “Usseewa,” released in 2021.

The lyrics and composition were handled by the popular Vocaloid producer Neru.

It was selected as the theme song for the drama Doctor-X: Surgeon Michiko Daimon.

The four-on-the-floor rock sound is incredibly addictive—you’ll want to put it on repeat.

It’s a cool, hype-boosting track that blows your stress away the moment you listen!

KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who also works as a Vocaloid producer, continues to expand the musical possibilities of the J-pop scene.

His 13th single “KICK BACK,” used as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, not only boasts a cool sound but also drew attention for its comedic music video featuring weight training and parkour.

The hysteric melody and sound—arranged with participation from Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu—pair with a tight beat to crank up the energy.

It’s a modern, high-tempo track that’s challenging and rewarding to sing at karaoke due to its high difficulty.