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 of the 1980s: A Collection of Nostalgic Classics That Still Linger in Our Ears (21–30)
Tears aren’t just for show.Nakamori Akina
Here is the song that was released in 1984 as Akina Nakamori’s 10th single.
The lyrics and music were by Yosui Inoue, and the fusion of Inoue’s world with Nakamori’s vocals gave birth to a truly memorable masterpiece.
In 2002, Inoue himself released a self-cover version, which also reached living rooms across the country as it was used as the ending theme on various TV programs.
Roppongi HeartbreakAn Ruisu
A single by Ann Lewis released in 1984.
It’s a hard rock-style song sung by a woman—probably quite provocative for its time.
The composition is by NOBODY, who served as backing members for Eikichi Yazawa.
It’s still popular for karaoke and band sessions today.
Although the song is set in Roppongi, the word “Roppongi” never appears in the lyrics.
It’s a quintessential 80s track that lets you fully feel the era’s atmosphere.
Chance has comeBARBEE BOYS
This “Chance Arrival” is their fourth single, released in 1985.
A male–female vocal duo was rare even at the time, and many listeners probably felt a thrill as they enjoyed the lyrics, which play out like a mature conversation.
The vivid back-and-forth between KONTA and Kyoko felt very real.
Goodbyeofukōsu
Off Course’s song “Sayonara,” which became a hit in 1980, was the group’s 17th single, released in December 1979.
Not only did it become a long-running hit and rank ninth on the 1980 year-end chart, but it has also been frequently featured in TV commercials, making it a well-known song across generations.
It is a signature track not only for Off Course but also for the vocalist Kazumasa Oda.
Mi AmoreNakamori Akina
Although she was an idol, Akina Nakamori delivered truly authentic vocals and had been gaining popularity, and she finally reached No.
2 on the 1985 year-end rankings.
Sales exceeded 630,000 copies, making this a year of remarkable advancement for her.
This song is a masterpiece that easily surpasses the level typically sung by ordinary female idols.
Medaka Siblingswarabe
A signature song by Warabe released in 1982.
From the intro, it captivates listeners with its charm! Its unique atmosphere—blending elements of children’s songs with contemporary pop—is striking.
Through the dreams of the medaka siblings, it expresses children’s pure wishes and their hopes for growth.
It was also used as an insert song on TV Asahi’s “Kin-chan no Dokomade Yaru no!” and became a major hit.
Even today, this piece remains in the hearts of many as a song loved by a wide range of generations, from children to adults.
It’s a perfect track when you want to feel nostalgia and warmth.
Yagiri no Watashi (Yagiri Ferry)Hosokawa Takashi
Released in 1983, this song became a social phenomenon.
Centered on the theme of a ferryboat on the Edo River, it portrays the heartrending feelings of a man and woman reluctant to part.
Takashi Hosokawa’s vocals beautifully capture the scenery of Shibamata and the couple’s strong bond.
The mingled anxiety and anticipation aboard the swaying boat are deeply moving.
Boosted by the drama’s influence, the song drew great attention and won the 25th Japan Record Award.
It has continued to be covered by many artists, including Hibari Misora and Akina Nakamori.
Highly recommended as a song that will comfort anyone who has experienced parting with a lover or someone dear.