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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!

[Good to Listen, Great to Sing] A Collection of Cool Japanese Songs [2026] (111–120)

HOWLAyumu Imazu

Ayumu Imazu – HOWL [Music Video]
HOWLAyumu Imazu

A dance number by Ayumu Imazu with a exhilarating sense of speed that feels like tearing through the city at night.

Released in July 2025, the track was written specifically as the opening theme for the TV anime “Karaoke Iko!” It captures the uniquely adolescent swing of emotions—frustration with an uncooperative reality and longing for a more grown-up world—set against a cool track.

I think it’s perfect as background music for a drive!

asking for the moonKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON “Naimono Nedari” Music Video
asking for the moonKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON is a rock band known for catchy songs that unfold with a four-on-the-floor rhythm.

“Naimononedari,” included on their 2013 release “Boku ga CD wo Dashitara,” features a guitar sound that’s irresistible for fans of Japanese rock.

Maguro Taniguchi’s powerful yet light-footed vocals also leave a strong impression.

Recommended for those who love the vibe of music festivals and live houses! It’s a karaoke crowd-pleaser that gets everyone going with claps and sing-along choruses.

I am the strongest.Ado

[Ado] I’m the Strongest (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)
I am the strongest.Ado

It’s “I’m Invincible” by Ado, a song that drew attention as an insert track in ONE PIECE FILM RED.

The lyrics and composition were handled by Motoki Omori of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

It also made waves because Ado provided the singing voice for Uta, a character who appears in the film.

It’s a track that really showcases Ado’s unique, powerful, overwhelming vocals! The song affirms self-worth, reassures you that feeling down doesn’t mean you’re wrong, and gives you a push to keep looking forward.

Present PerfectBAND-MAID

BAND-MAID / Present Perfect (Official Music Video)
Present PerfectBAND-MAID

“May” is the lead track from BAND-MAID’s EP SCOOOOOP, released in October 2025.

It’s a song with a dramatic melody and a weighty band sound that tugs at the heart.

The lyrics, which speak to the will to move forward, are a perfect match.

The powerful guitar riffs and delicate vocal sensibility are exquisitely balanced, further deepening their emotional rock expression.

It’s a passionate, powerful rock tune to play when you need the courage to face something or a push to keep going.

Emeraldback number

A rock band that has produced countless ballads you can’t help but empathize with, back number released this groundbreaking track in October 2020.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Dangerous Venus,” it features a cool sound brimming with a mysterious worldview and an undeniably dangerous vibe! The bass and drum rhythms and the key changes are electrifying, too! The emerald’s gemstone meaning includes “the fulfillment of love,” which may overlap with the drama’s story.

It’s a thrilling, highly addictive song that pulls you in more and more with every listen!

MelissaPorunogurafiti

PORNO GRAFFITTI 'Melissa' (ROMANCE PORNO ’08 ~10 YEARS GIFT~) / PORNOGRAFFITTI 'Melissa (Live Ver.)'
MelissaPorunogurafiti

This is the 12th single by Porno Graffitti, a two-piece rock band from Hiroshima Prefecture who made their major debut in 1999.

The song was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Fullmetal Alchemist, and its structure—starting right from the chorus—instantly cranks the energy to the max.

With a distinctive yet catchy melody that’s quintessentially Porno Graffitti, it’s a number that’s guaranteed to get everyone hyped, whether you’re singing it at karaoke or just listening.

Until You Die OutFear, and Loathing in Las Vegas

[MV]Until You Die Out / Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas
Until You Die OutFear, and Loathing in Las Vegas

This track, released by the Kobe-born electrocore band Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas as the ending theme for the anime Ninja to Gokudou, features an intense sound where synth textures and screams collide.

The interplay of clean vocals and shouts is quintessentially their style.

The lyrics, themed around life and death, express the resolve of those living the harsh fates of ninjas and gangsters.

It was released digitally in October 2025, with the music video dropping alongside the anime’s broadcast.

A must-listen for fans of heavy music.