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)
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
A groundbreaking song released in 1980.
Featured on the landmark album “Kampai,” which is etched into Japanese music history, this track captured many hearts with Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s powerful vocals and straightforward message.
It’s often sung at life’s milestones, such as weddings and graduations, and is cherished as an anthem encouraging those taking a new step forward.
The lyrics convey the importance of believing in love and moving ahead no matter the difficulties, giving courage to those who listen.
The re-recorded 1988 single version was also a major hit and was performed on numerous music shows, including the Kōhaku Uta Gassen and the FNS Music Festival.
It’s a reassuring song not only for those embarking on a new chapter in life, but also for anyone facing hardship.
I’ll wait.amin
Matsu wa (I’ll Wait) was released as the debut single of the female duo Amin, who debuted in 1982, and it became a hit, ranking first in Oricon’s annual sales for 1982.
The beautiful harmonies of Takako Okamura and Haruko Kato, who were active university students at the time, match perfectly with the mood of the song and its lyrics, making it a track that truly showcases this duo’s unique character.
It is a classic that has been covered by many singers.
Japanese pop hits of the 1980s: A nostalgic collection of unforgettable classics (31–40)
The hottest summer in the worldPRINCESS PRINCESS
This song ranked second on the 1989 year-end singles chart.
For a medium-tempo number performed by a female band, it possessed an originality and melodic sensibility that were unimaginable by the standards of the time.
It can be considered a landmark track for female rock bands.
FriendsREBECCA
Friends is a song that remains popular as a karaoke staple: it was the ending theme for the 1985 drama “Half-Potato na Oretachi,” and a remixed version was released in 1999 as the theme song for the drama “Lipstick.” Listening to this track may bring back memories of the tender first loves many experienced in adolescence.
Rebecca performed it when they reunited for their first appearance on the 66th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, and it stands as one of the quintessential songs of the 1980s—one that nearly every woman has sung at least once.
Girl ANakamori Akina
Akina Nakamori’s second single, released in 1982.
The golden duo of lyricist Masao Urino and composer Hiroaki Serizawa—who also worked on early Checkers singles—crafted the song.
Its mischievous, delinquent-flavored lyrics pair perfectly with Nakamori’s sweet, low voice, and the blasting horn section and choppy cutting guitar make it a high-caliber track that still sounds incredibly cool today.
My RevolutionWatanabe Misato
A hit song by Misato Watanabe that has been covered by many artists.
It was composed by Tetsuya Komuro, and it’s said that the success of this track helped him discover his songwriting tips and direction.
It seems that the origin of the “Komuro Sound,” which dominated the Japanese music scene from the late 1980s through the 1990s, lies in this song.
In the Name of LoveHamada Shogo
There was a drama with the same title on the Nippon TV network, and this song was used as its theme.
Shogo Hamada has a long history, but this track seems to be from his relatively early period.
No matter when I listen to it, I’m moved by how good it is.
There are many great ballads, but this song could be called one of the definitive works among them.