A collection of nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1980s that still linger in our ears
Speaking of the 1980s, it was a time when countless timeless hits emerged that remain popular even today!
It was also an era filled with artists who influenced many of today’s musicians, and in many ways can be seen as the dawn of J-POP leading up to the explosive million-selling boom of the 1990s.
In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of especially recommended songs from the hit-packed 80s.
Please enjoy these nostalgic chart-toppers that are sure to bring back memories of the time.
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- Masterpieces and hit songs of 80s Japanese pop (kayōkyoku)
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- 80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s that have been used in commercials.
- Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols of the 80s
- Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
- So nostalgic it feels new? Showa retro classics that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth
Hit J-Pop songs from the 1980s: a nostalgic collection of unforgettable classics (71–80)
BODY TO BODYSOFT BALLET
Formed in 1986, this band made its major-label debut in 1989 but ceased activities after their concert at Shibuya Kokaido on July 23, 1995.
Based on a cool, mechanical sound reminiscent of electronic music, their style—strengthened by Endo’s vocals and support musicians to bring out a strong rock edge—also influenced the Japanese music scene.
Lonely Tropical FishWink
“Lonely Tropical Fish” is a single by Wink released in July 1989, used as a commercial song for Matsushita Electric Industrial.
It debuted at number one on the Oricon chart and became a hit, winning the All Japan Cable Broadcasting Award and the Japan Record Award.
I love youOkamura Yasuyuki
Released in 1988, it was also aired in living rooms as the CM song for the Honda Today featuring Miki Imai.
If you turn up the volume, you can hear Yasuyuki Okamura’s voice endearingly coaching the children’s chorus in the ending.
A Collection of Nostalgic Japanese Hit Songs from the 1980s That Still Linger in Our Ears (’81–’90)
I want to protect youMatsutōya Yumi
This song was written in 1981 as the theme for the film “Nerawareta Gakuen.” It has remained beloved over the years, being re-released as a CD single in 1989 and used in several commercials.
The lyrics—about a woman wanting to protect you—felt fresh for the time.
YES-NOofukōsu
From the folk era to a rock band.
A song released in June 1980.
Kazumasa Oda’s clear, translucent voice—it’s front and center even in the original recording.
The sound is grand, evoking scenes of the summer sea.
It’s a classic that has been covered by many artists, including Chara and Junichi Inagaki, and is still sung today.
When you try it at karaoke… the key’s a bit high!? But the melody is so lovely you’ll want to sing it anyway.
FugitiveYazawa Eikichi
Set to a thrilling guitar riff, this is a classic by Eikichi Yazawa that cries out a thirst for freedom.
Released as a single in July 1984, it was also included on the masterpiece album “E’” released the same year.
The protagonist, cutting ties and charging straight south with single-minded determination, seems to shatter the sense of stagnation that dwells in the listener’s heart.
Co-produced with Andrew Gold, the track’s appeal lies in its American rock flavor—Yazawa himself said it brought out “a new feel.” When you’re longing to change your circumstances, this exhilarating sound is sure to give you a push.
In the night sky after the rainRC Succession
Released as a single in 1981, this is a classic that still resonates in the Japanese rock scene.
As soon as Chabo’s guitar kicks in, you’re instantly drawn into RC’s world.
In the 2014 film “Daily Rock,” Fumi Nikaido, playing an idol, delivers a powerful rendition of the song.