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 of the 1980s: A Nostalgic Collection of Unforgettable Classics (1–10)
Dancing All Nightmonta & burazāzu
It was their major debut single in 1980 and a classic everyone knows.
The sprightly rhythm makes you want to dance, and Yoshi Nori Monta’s distinctive vocals ride on top, conveying the excitement of heading to the dance floor.
The lyrics, which express the desire to keep dancing with the one you love, are also captivating.
It spent 10 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Oricon charts at the time and even ranked No.
1 for the year.
In 2005, it was used as a parody version for a Mizkan commercial, making it a song beloved across generations.
It’s perfect for times when everyone wants to get fired up, like dance parties or wedding after-parties.
Snow CountryYoshi Ikuzo
Even if people know the enka classic “Yukiguni,” many might not realize it’s a song by Ikuzo Yoshi.
This 1986 hit showcased the talents of an artist who had found success with comedic songs like “Ora Tokyo sa Iku da,” proving his abilities as a traditional enka singer.
Yoshi himself wrote both the lyrics and music, earning high praise as a songwriter as well.
The Camellia Sasanqua InnŌkawa Eisaku
Eisaku Okawa’s 32nd single, released in 1982, paints a poignant portrait of aching love.
It sold over 1.8 million copies in total and ranked No.
1 on Oricon’s annual chart in 1983.
Centered on an affair, the song’s appeal lies in its bittersweet yet decadent mood.
It vividly depicts a man and woman consumed by forbidden love, likened to the red sasanqua camellia.
The image of a woman wiping a frosted window and the fleeting nature of winter blossoms leave a strong impression.
Coupled with Okawa’s deeply expressive vocals, the complexity and sorrow of adultery are masterfully conveyed, making this a quietly soul-stirring masterpiece.
1980s Japanese hit songs: a nostalgic collection of unforgettable classics (11–20)
A Tearful RequestChekkāzu
Here is the Checkers’ second single, released in 1984.
Since their debut song, “Gizagiza Heart no Komoriuta,” the Checkers churned out hit after hit, and their popularity at the time was astonishing—so much so that they could have three songs charting on music shows at once.
According to lyricist Masao Urino, he wrote the lyrics with the film American Graffiti in mind.
Life won’t give (it) to me / Unyielding lifeSegawa Eiko
Released in 1986 as her 40th single, this became Eiko Segawa’s biggest hit.
It sold a total of 1.7 million copies and earned top honors in numerous award competitions, including the Grand Prize at the 20th Japan Cable Awards, the JASRAC Gold Award for 1987, and the JASRAC Gold Award for 1988.
Its easy-to-sing, relaxed tempo and narrow vocal range helped make it a karaoke smash, and many people took to imitating Segawa’s deep, slightly nasal voice when singing it at karaoke.
Rock’n RougeMatsuda Seiko
Released in 1984, this refreshing pop tune depicts the arrival of spring and the stirrings of romance, showcasing Seiko Matsuda’s charm to the fullest.
It was also used in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial and became a major hit.
The European disco-style sound pairs perfectly with lyrics that express innocent feelings of love.
It deftly portrays the subtle psychology of a man driving a sports car and the woman sitting beside him.
The song was performed at the 35th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen and left a lasting impression on many.
It’s recommended for anyone who wants to feel the budding sense of romance that comes with the arrival of spring.
Sneaker BluesKondō Masahiko
Masahiko Kondo, who dominated the idol scene at the time under the nickname “Match,” had a massive hit with this song, which sold over a million copies.
His slightly husky voice, conveying a disarmingly straightforward sincerity, is striking and nostalgic.
The driving bassline and brassy accompaniment embody the sound of that era’s idol scene, making you feel as if you’ve time-traveled the moment you hear it.
