Cute masterpieces of J‑Pop: recommended popular songs

Bud of LoveKōda Kumi

Koda Kumi / Bud of Love

It’s a slightly unusual, cute song for Kumi Koda, who usually has a lot of cool and sexy tracks.

It’s a song overflowing with an uncontrollable love.

Plus, the Kansai dialect that Koda actually speaks is used in the lyrics, letting you feel an even more realistic romance.

The Bride of SetoKoyanagi Rumiko

Seto no Hanayome / Sound Travel 2017

This is the song that led Rumiko Koyanagi to break through.

It’s an easy-to-listen-to piece where her clear, expansive vocals—backed by the skill of someone who graduated at the top of the Takarazuka Music School—match perfectly with the relaxed tempo.

The song expresses the sweet yet strong resolve of a girl about to get married.

The High-Class Mermaid of the ShoreKoizumi Kyoko

Sophisticated Mermaid of the Shore (Kyoko Koizumi) cover ♪ Chinami (Dan Ishida and New Burikko)

It’s a cute song with a refreshing, summery melody that sings about the feelings of a girl in love.

Back then, Kyoko Koizumi herself had a short haircut and a sun-kissed tan, and she truly embodied the chic mermaid of the beach, captivating many viewers.

It’s a song you’ll definitely want to listen to when you head to the seaside in summer.

cherry blossomKawamoto Makoto

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto “Sakura”

Makoto Kawamoto gently sings this classic, whose tender spring light and calm melody seep into the heart.

At the life milestone of graduation, it delicately portrays a schoolgirl’s complex feelings as she faces parting with friends, along with her uncertainty and hope for the future.

Accompanied by a melodious piano, it beautifully captures the fresh emotions of youth.

Released in April 1998, the song reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and sold over 200,000 copies, despite having no tie-in at the time.

It’s a perfect track for a drive with the windows down in the soft spring sunshine.

Listen to it as you cruise through rows of cherry blossoms, and anyone will find it overlapping with their own memories.

Sentimental JourneyMatsumoto Iyo

Iyo Matsumoto Choreography Master PV “Sentimental Journey”

The lyric “Iyo is still 16!” is so striking that once you hear it, it sticks with you.

It conjures up a fresh, cute picture of youthful romance and fills you with nostalgia.

The scene of a girl trying to act a little more grown-up is adorable and so relatable.

red catSuiyōbi no Campanella

Akaneko

This is a heartwarming song set in a ramen shop.

Written as the theme song for the TBS anime “Ramen Akaneko,” the track is included on the EP “POP DELIVERY,” released in June 2024.

Its cozy atmosphere and pop sound blend perfectly, and Shiha’s gentle vocals soothe the listener’s heart.

It’s the perfect song for taking a breather amid busy days.

Recommended not only for ramen lovers but for anyone seeking comfort.

Give it a listen, and you’re sure to feel energized for tomorrow!

Smile for meKawai Naoko

Smile for Me / Dynamite Pops (2013 Spring Godiego Festival)

This is a song that really showcases Naoko Kawai’s excellent vocal ability.

It’s a sparkling, cute track that brings back memories of youth—full of “no one can beat my youth and smile!” vibes.

A perfect summer song, it’s one you’ll definitely want to play on a drive to the beach.