A medley of crowd-pleasing classics. Iconic Japanese songs and recommended popular tracks.

To the futureKiroro

To the Future – Kiroro (Full)

I think it’s a classic that symbolizes a new beginning, expressing the feeling of “toward the future,” not only for graduations but also for weddings, just as the title suggests.

There may be many things ahead, but we take one step at a time along the “path” beneath our feet and walk toward the “future” that lies ahead.

It feels like it teaches us what’s important in life.

We Were AngelsKageyama Hironobu

Hironobu Kageyama — We Were Angels (Fuimos Ángeles)

It’s the song that played during the ending of the TV anime Dragon Ball Z.

The lyrics, which evoke the feeling of continuing to walk together, are memorable.

It also happens to be from the period when Goku was dead, and I think it’s a masterpiece that sings about forms of love beyond just romance—such as parental love and friendship—as well as human emotions.

I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “I Won’t Fall in Love Again” (Music Video) [5th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara / Mou Koi Nante Shinai

This autumn classic comes from Noriyuki Makihara, an artist whose exceptional lyrical sense delivers a breezy, singable mood along with a depth that resonates in the heart.

It’s crafted with a distinctly wistful sound, heightening its stylish atmosphere to great effect.

LOVE LOVE LOVEDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE LOVE LOVE LOVE Tokyo Skytree

It’s a heartrending ballad that was used as the theme song for the drama “Say You Love Me.” The lyrics are simple—a love song about being unable to express your feelings well, about how just thinking of the other person brings you to tears.

As the lyrics say, it’s “just that,” but it’s a song that makes you feel that might be what true “love” is.

Poem of SunlightLe Couple

Hidamari no Uta / Le Couple (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

It’s a classic that drew attention as an insert song in the drama “Under One Roof 2.” It’s not about heartbreak, nor is it simply lingering feelings for someone you parted with—its ineffable, poignant sentiment truly moves people.

The duo originally performed as a married couple, but, ironically like in the song, they eventually split up.

Even so, the song’s appeal is timeless.

Snow BlossomNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima 'Yuki no Hana' Music Video

Although it’s a song by a woman, it’s said to be written from a man to a woman.

Still, I imagine many men would want their girlfriends to sing it, right? With Mika Nakashima’s overwhelming vocals and its heartrending melody, I think it’s one of the most memorable winter classics.

LA LA LA Love SongKubota Toshinobu

Toshinobu Kubota – LA･LA･LA LOVE SONG with NAOMI CAMPBELL [Official Video Short ver.]

It’s one of Toshinobu Kubota’s classic songs that was used as the theme song for the drama “Long Vacation,” which starred former SMAP member Takuya Kimura and Tomoko Yamaguchi.

It’s a nostalgic hit especially known for the striking line, “Let’s share a kiss so sweet it takes our breath away.”