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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Classic and Hit J-Pop Songs from the Nostalgic 1980s (1–10)
The Camellia Sasanqua InnŌkawa Eisaku
A timeless classic that depicts winter flowers as a metaphor for love, suffused with a heartrending longing.
Released in 1982, it became Eisaka Okawa’s signature song, selling a total of 1.8 million copies.
With rich emotion, it gives voice to an unrequited love for another man’s wife, moving the hearts of listeners.
Beloved by many, it reached No.
2 on the Oricon charts in 1983.
The song delicately explores the complex theme of an illicit affair, while Okawa’s clear, expansive vocals further enhance its appeal.
Now a karaoke staple, it is cherished across generations.
It’s the perfect piece for moments when you want to bare the bittersweet feelings hidden deep within your heart.
MarionetteBOØWY
A signature hit of the ’80s, this was BOØWY’s sixth single, released in July 1987.
Issued ahead of the album “PSYCHOPATH,” it topped the Oricon Singles Chart.
The lyrics symbolize a will to seek freedom, while the sound—shaped by punk and new wave influences—establishes a distinctive style of its own.
Kyosuke Himuro’s emotive vocals and the catchy melody line strike a chord, and the song remains beloved by many music fans to this day.
Its clear, memorable chorus is instantly familiar, and the more you listen, the more you’re drawn into its world.
It’s a perfect track for anyone who wants to live authentically or spark a fire in their heart.
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
“Kanpai” is a song included on Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s third album, also titled “Kanpai,” released in 1980.
It was released as a single in 1988 and reached number one on the Oricon charts.
Written by Nagabuchi for a friend who was getting married, the song is still often sung at weddings and graduation ceremonies today.
Masterpieces and hit songs of nostalgic Japanese pop from the 80s (11–20)
DiamondsPRINCESS PRINCESS
Princess Princess’s signature song that dominated the 1989 charts.
Its stylish, up-tempo rhythm makes you want to listen while driving, doesn’t it? Kaori Kishitani’s soaring vocals vividly convey the empowering message that “you can obtain what truly matters.” The track was also used in a Sony audio tape commercial and reached No.
1 on the Oricon singles chart in its seventh week, becoming a massive hit with total sales surpassing 1.7 million copies.
With universal themes—love, friendship, dreams—this song continues to be cherished by many as an anthem that colored the youth of the ’80s.
CHA-CHA-CHAIshii Akemi
It’s a classic that defines the ’80s.
The phrase “I wanna dance” in the chorus is memorable, and the Latin-tinged rhythm is incredibly catchy.
Akemi Ishii’s husky vocals make this track especially appealing.
Released in 1986 as her debut single, it also drew attention as the theme song for the TV drama Danjo 7-nin Natsu Monogatari (Seven Men and Women: Summer Story).
It was a huge hit, topping the Oricon singles chart for nine consecutive weeks.
The song captures the atmosphere of Japan’s bubble era, giving you a bright, liberating feeling.
Highly recommended not only for dance lovers but also for anyone interested in ’80s music.
DESIRE -Passion-Nakamori Akina
I think this was the song that dramatically changed Akina Nakamori’s image at the time.
She hadn’t originally been marketed as a cute idol, but in this song she wore a bobbed wig, styled a modernized kimono, and paired it with heeled boots—a striking, very cool look.
Apparently, she even came up with the choreography herself.
Heartbroken over JuliaChekkāzu
A song released in November 1984 and a massive hit that represents The Checkers’ career.
With lyrics by Masao Urino and composition/arrangement by Hiroaki Serizawa, this golden duo created a gem of a number.
It beautifully captures Fumiya Fujii’s charismatic yet cute appeal, overflowing with a mature mood.
Reading the lyrics, Julia seems like a woman out of reach.
It feels like a passionate love from long ago is being revived, wrapping me in nostalgia and longing.
The track is also included on COMPLETE THE CHECKERS all singles collection and Super Best Collection 32.
Its lyrics, depicting the pain of heartbreak and regret, continue to resonate with many people.