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
A Collection of Nostalgic Japanese Hit Songs from the 1980s That Still Linger in Our Ears (’81–’90)
Diamond HurricaneHikaru GENJI
“Diamond Hurricane” is Hikaru GENJI’s fourth single, released in 1988.
Lyrics were written by Shun Taguchi, who has also penned songs for artists such as Yoko Minamino, Miho Nakayama, and Shonentai, and the composition was by Yoshimasa Inoue, known for providing numerous tracks to AKB48.
It’s a dramatic, dynamic number distinguished by the brightness of the unison parts sung by all members and the poignancy of the solo sections.
Runnerbakufū suranpu
“Runner” is the 12th single by Bakufu Slump, released in 1988.
It’s an upbeat, fast-tempo song.
A staple cheer song for high school baseball, it’s often adapted for commercials as well.
It is considered one of Bakufu Slump’s signature tracks.
SubaruTanimura Shinji
A signature song by Shinji Tanimura on par with “Sarai.” It’s a famous piece that was performed five times on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, and it is said to contain a message from the universe: “Let us bid farewell to a materialistic way of life bound only by what is visible, and choose a spiritually rich life that values the invisible.”
The Door to SummerMatsuda Seiko
It’s a classic that carries the sparkle of summer’s arrival and the thrill of a budding romance.
Just listening to it makes your heart skip and gives you the urge to dash off somewhere, doesn’t it? Released in April 1981 as Seiko Matsuda’s fifth single, this track is also included on the acclaimed album “Silhouette.” Its hope-filled lyrics and Seiko’s endlessly soaring high notes blend perfectly, as if gently giving listeners a push forward.
It was also featured at the time in a Shiseido “Ekubo” commercial, enchanting many with her voice.
Isn’t it just perfect for opening the door to a new season or when you want to refresh your mood?
Heavenly KissMatsuda Seiko
This song is filled with the sparkling thrills that make your heart flutter at the moment love begins.
Composed by Haruomi Hosono, its boldly shifting key changes are innovative, guiding listeners into a dreamy world.
Takashi Matsumoto’s lyrics depict the genuine feelings of a young woman, her heart racing as she imagines a future with the one she loves.
Released in April 1983, the track was featured as the theme song for the film “Legend of Plumeria,” among others, and became the artist’s 11th consecutive No.
1 hit.
It is also included on the album “Utopia.” It might be the perfect song to accompany that blissful moment when you feel your relationship with someone special is about to take a step forward.
Let’s walkJUN SKY WALKER(S)
This song was released in June 1989 as the second single.
It was also chosen as the song for a Panasonic headphone stereo commercial.
I believe they also appeared in the commercial.
I loved this song and listened to it over and over at the time.
Hit Japanese songs from the 1980s: a nostalgic collection of unforgettable classics (91–100)
Deep down, thank you.Thetōnanseihoku
This is the second single by The Ton-Nan-Sha-Pei, a band from Hiroshima, released in 1986.
It was also used in a commercial for Kenwood’s “Mini Component ROXY.” The clear voice of vocalist Kubota and the evocative lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto make it an unforgettable classic.