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

sun-fadedHatsuboshi Gakuen

Hatsuboshi Academy “Sunfaded” Official Music Video (Hatsuboshi Gakuen – Sunfaded)

This piece is sung by Hiro Shinozawa of Hatsuboshi Academy from the mobile game “Gakuen Idolmaster.” Following the previous song “Koukei” (“Scenery”), it was also produced by Hakushi Hasegawa.

Many listeners will likely feel nostalgic at the lyrics that capture the glitter and fragility of youth—the defenselessness of a summer day when you forgot to put on sunscreen, or a fleeting moment when the light looked like a shining ring.

The edgy alternative rock sound paired with her clear, translucent voice is a contrast that really hits home.

Give it a listen as the seasons change, and let your thoughts wander.

More Than WordsMAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION「More Than Words」

What makes MAN WITH A MISSION’s “More Than Words” so compelling is its lyrics that sing about bonds, hope, and conviction.

Released as a digital single in 2022, it’s also included on the album “Break and Cross the Walls II” released the same year.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “Radiation House: The Movie,” it’s a cool track with a danceable, fast-paced beat.

Be sure to check out the music video featuring the band members as well!

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Hamada Takuya

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Fake ShowOmoinotake

Omoinotake | Fake Show (Theme song for Yomiuri TV / Nippon TV Sunday drama 'DOCTOR PRICE') [TV size – Official Lyric Video]

Do you ever wonder whether the path you chose is truly the right one? How would you see it? Crafted by Omoinotake, this work is a powerful number that poses such universal questions.

Set to be released in July 2025 as the theme song for the drama DOCTOR PRICE starring Takanori Iwata, it portrays the inner struggle of searching for one’s own “happiness” among countless choices.

The contradiction that someone may be crying behind someone else’s smile can make your chest ache.

Its energetic sound is sure to resonate deeply with a heart that, despite its doubts, longs to find a truth all its own.

End of DaysReoNa

ReoNa “End of Days” Official Music Video – TV Anime ‘Arknights: Rise from Ember’ Opening Theme

This is a soul-stirring track that seeks light from within despair.

Showcasing the true essence of ReoNa, known as a “despair-style anisong singer,” the song sets anguished cries and prayers of resistance in an apocalyptic world against a weighty symphonic rock soundscape.

Created as the opening theme for the TV anime “Arknights: Rise from Ember,” it will be released as her 11th single in August 2025.

The lyrics paint the image of a protagonist who strives to protect what’s precious, even as everything seems fated to end.

When you need courage to face adversity or want to immerse yourself in a grand narrative, ReoNa’s voice may resonate deeply with your heart.

Mr. Moonlightimase

[imase] Mr. Moonlight (Music Video)

This is a track by imase, notable for its dazzling brass sound that evokes jazz.

Written specifically as the opening theme for the TV anime “Hotel Inhumans,” it was released in July 2025.

The expressive vocals conjure a slightly bittersweet, romantic night.

The lyrics capture the inner conflicts of the protagonist who works at a hotel for assassins, and the way their heart changes through encounters with others.

Many listeners will likely find themselves drawn into this poignant world, where guilty feelings mingle with the warm emotion of caring for someone.

In progress (experiment ongoing)Shiina Ringo

Ringo Sheena – In Experiment

This song carries a powerful message from Ringo Sheena: “Let’s use ourselves as test subjects and explore how to live better!” Released in July 2025 as the campaign song for Shiseido Ultimune, it resonates perfectly with the campaign’s ethos of breaking free from every constraint.

Set to an energetic rock sound, it’s an anthem to freely experimenting without fear of failure.

When you’re held back by others’ eyes or conventional wisdom and can’t take the first step, listening to this track will spark the motivation to say, “Let’s just try it.”

Candy BlazeFANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE

Candy Blaze (Theme song for the film 'Kamen Rider Guv: Invaders of the Candy House')

An emotional dance track by FANTASTICS, written as the theme song for the film “Kamen Rider GAV: Invaders of the Candy House.” Released in July 2025, the song is also included on the mini-album “Cosmic Resonance.” Set to a powerful, future bass–driven sound, it voices a steadfast resolve to protect those you hold dear.

Its inventive lyrics, which use sweets as metaphors, make for a compelling listen.

It’s a piece that will give you a push when you’re ready to take on a new challenge.