Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
A special feature on Japanese hit songs that colored the 1980s! These include hits by artists who went on to have a major impact on later eras and by idols who enjoyed charismatic popularity—songs so beloved that many people can still sing along today.
Many timeless classics remain popular, especially revival hits and Showa-era kayōkyoku that have gained traction among younger generations even in the Reiwa era and beyond.
That said, when you think, “I want to listen to Japanese music from the ’80s,” it can be hard to decide where to start.
We’ve put together a selection focused on massively successful hits that we recommend you listen to first in those moments.
Use this as a companion to reminisce about memories from back then or to discover new music!
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- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
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- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
Masterpieces and Hit Songs of Nostalgic 80s Japanese Pop (61–70)
Night of 15Ozaki Yutaka
This song is based on something Yutaka Ozaki actually experienced when he was 14.
So in reality, it would be “14’s Night,” wouldn’t it? The line in the lyrics, “the warmth you can buy with a 100‑yen coin, clutching a hot can of coffee,” doesn’t really hold up anymore.
Times have changed.
A Tearful RequestChekkāzu
Many people strongly associate this song with the Checkers’ breakthrough, but in fact it was their second single.
Their first was ‘Gizagiza Heart no Komoriuta’ (Jagged Heart Lullaby), and after ‘Namida no Request’ became a hit, a reversal occurred and ‘Gizagiza Heart no Komoriuta’ also started selling well.
Teenage in GlassHikaru GENJI
This song is Hikaru Genji’s second single.
As with their debut track “STAR LIGHT,” Ryo Asuka handled both the lyrics and composition.
(Strictly speaking, the composition of “STAR LIGHT” is credited to CHAGE & ASKA.) Nowadays, member colors are standard in Johnny’s groups, but it’s said that the practice started with them.
The Door to SummerMatsuda Seiko
It’s a classic that carries the sparkle of summer’s arrival and the thrill of a budding romance.
Just listening to it makes your heart skip and gives you the urge to dash off somewhere, doesn’t it? Released in April 1981 as Seiko Matsuda’s fifth single, this track is also included on the acclaimed album “Silhouette.” Its hope-filled lyrics and Seiko’s endlessly soaring high notes blend perfectly, as if gently giving listeners a push forward.
It was also featured at the time in a Shiseido “Ekubo” commercial, enchanting many with her voice.
Isn’t it just perfect for opening the door to a new season or when you want to refresh your mood?
Heavenly KissMatsuda Seiko
This song is filled with the sparkling thrills that make your heart flutter at the moment love begins.
Composed by Haruomi Hosono, its boldly shifting key changes are innovative, guiding listeners into a dreamy world.
Takashi Matsumoto’s lyrics depict the genuine feelings of a young woman, her heart racing as she imagines a future with the one she loves.
Released in April 1983, the track was featured as the theme song for the film “Legend of Plumeria,” among others, and became the artist’s 11th consecutive No.
1 hit.
It is also included on the album “Utopia.” It might be the perfect song to accompany that blissful moment when you feel your relationship with someone special is about to take a step forward.
Lapis-Lazuli EarthMatsuda Seiko
A warm message that finds hope in the darkness makes this one of Seiko Matsuda’s signature songs, capturing countless hearts and never letting go.
The piece unfolds from an image of two people, who have supported each other through hardship, being wrapped in the morning sun, into a grand theme in which they become travelers aboard the ship called Earth, wishing to protect this irreplaceable planet.
Released on the album “SUPREME” in June 1986, it was famously used in 2010 as wake-up music on the International Space Station.
Featured in high school music textbooks as well, the song has been passed down across generations.
It’s perfect when you need hope for tomorrow or want to feel a gentle warmth.
Blue Coral ReefMatsuda Seiko
It’s a classic with a striking intro that seems to carry the sparkle of the sun and the scent of the sea breeze.
You can picture a summer day by the ocean with someone you love—the racing heartbeat and the little burst of boldness that comes with it.
It evokes scenes of a sweet and dazzling romance.
This song, which propelled Seiko Matsuda to the status of “eternal idol,” was released in July 1980 as her second single and is also included on her debut album, SQUALL.
As the theme for Glico’s ice cream commercial, it brightened living rooms across the nation and topped The Best Ten for three consecutive weeks.
It’s a refreshing track that instantly paints listeners’ hearts in summer hues.