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 Japanese songs from the 1980s: a nostalgic collection of unforgettable classics (91–100)
Love is overŌyō Fifi
Love Is Over is a major hit in Japan by Taiwanese singer Fifi Ouyang.
As an iconic hit from the 1980s, it’s impossible to overlook this song, but in fact it originally appeared as the B-side to the 1979 single “Uwasa no Disco Queen.” When it was re-released in 1980, it became a big hit and has since become a classic, widely covered by many singers.
Shake Hip!kome kome CLUB
Released in 1986 as their second single, this song is one of Kome Kome Club’s signature tracks.
The band is popular not only for their music, but also for the high level of entertainment in their stage productions—such as set designs by Tatsuya Ishii, skits performed during concerts, and video production.
Their appeal lies in being a large ensemble that strives to delight audiences in every aspect.
Hit Songs of Japanese Pop from the 1980s: A Nostalgic Collection of Unforgettable Classics (101–110)
You were mineKubota Toshinobu
Released in 1988, this was Toshinobu Kubota’s fifth single and served as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kimi no Hitomi wo Taiho Suru!” It’s a wistful love song with R&B elements, conveying the pain of heartbreak and lingering feelings.
Kubota’s soulful vocals richly express his emotions for a past lover, leaving a deep impression.
The song reached the Top 3 on the Oricon charts and won the Japan Record Award’s Gold Prize.
It’s a perfect track for those looking to overcome a breakup or to reminisce about someone special.
Minna no UtaSazan Ōrusutāzu
This is Southern All Stars’ 24th single, released on June 25, 1988, marking the 10th anniversary of their debut.
It was released as the band’s comeback single after they went on hiatus due to Haru Yoko’s maternity leave.
It’s an uplifting, feel-good song that makes you happy just by listening.
A concert staple, it’s known for fans spreading their arms and swaying them side to side during the chorus, along with the customary water-splashing.
Two people on a muddy roadBO GUMBOS
The “Gumbo” in the band name BO GUMBOS comes from the stew and refers to music that blends various genres.
They incorporate flavors from ska, rock ’n’ roll, and more, resulting in an upbeat, feel-good sound! If you were into rock bands back then, there’s a good chance you went to one of their shows, right?
Vanity AngelREBECCA
This is the lead single from the album BLOND SAURUS, released in April 1989.
It was reportedly the last analog single.
Lyrics by NOKKO, music by Akio Dobashi, arrangement by Rebecca.
It’s a very nostalgic song.
Plan for the Indianization of JapanKinniku Shoujo Tai
This “Japan Indianization Project” is included on Kinniku Shōjo Tai’s third album, “Neko no Tebukuro,” released in 1989.
Although the song was not released as a single, its impact at the time was considerable.
More recently, it was used on TV Tokyo’s children’s program “Piramekino,” leading to a resurgence in popularity.