[Japan] A collection of J-pop with a traditional Japanese (wa) vibe and Japanese-style taste

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

Many people probably feel that listening to songs with a Japanese (wa) vibe is calming, don’t you think?

Here, we’ve carefully selected and will introduce some exceptional masterpieces that let you feel that “wa.”

We’ve gathered tracks that evoke Japan’s seasons and hometown nostalgia, as well as songs that might not seem traditionally Japanese at first listen but use Japanese-flavored scales like the yo scale (yonanuki).

There are also pieces with classical-style lyrics or sounds that conjure a Japanese atmosphere in various ways.

Some even include intense EDM and aggressive rock tunes.

These are all wonderful tracks that reveal new sides of famous songs and highlight the charms of Japanese music!

Be sure to find a favorite “wa” song that resonates with your heart!

[Japan] A Collection of J-Pop with a Japanese/Wa-Inspired Taste (71–80)

A Guide to the Way of the Shinobimafumafu

[MV] Recommendation of a Shinobi / Mafumafu

A Guide to the Way of the Shinobimafumafu

The singer Mafumafu, who gained widespread recognition after performing “Inochi ni Kirawarete Iru” at the 2021 NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, saw the song become a hot topic.

“Shinobi no Susume,” which opens his 5th album “Kagurairo Artifact,” is a playful track that even weaves in titles of his previously posted songs.

Its Japanese-flavored melody, carried by his piercing high-tone voice, both soothes and uplifts the listener.

With a delicate piano opening that transitions into a tight rock sound, the ensemble builds excitement—an emotional, high-energy tune.

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Hoshino Takashi

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A Dream of the Fleeting Worldnano

Utsushiyo no Yume / Nano Music Video

A Dream of the Fleeting Worldnano

Nano is a singer with an androgynous voice and overwhelming vocal ability who has performed numerous anime songs.

The 9th single, “Utsushiyo no Yume,” is a fast-paced track selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits.

Its edgy rock sound is blended with traditional Japanese instruments like the shakuhachi and shamisen, creating an ensemble that aligns with the anime’s world.

The melody, layered with lyrics that vividly evoke scenes, also carries a Japanese flavor—making it a cool rock tune.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Let’s give up.Kahara Tomomi

Let's give up by The Ground Zero

Let's give up.Kahara Tomomi

It was released in 2002 as Tomomi Kahara’s 21st single.

The song was used in the commercial for POKKA canned coffee “FIRST DRIP BLACK,” the Black and White cans, in which Kahara appeared.

Its easy-to-remember lyrics, melody, and choreography brought out a new side of her.

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a little over 100 millimetersFISHMANS

A little over 100 millimeters – Fishmans

a little over 100 millimetersFISHMANS

This is a song that uses the yo-nanuki (major pentatonic) scale.

It’s a work by Fishmans, a rock band formed in 1987, included on their second album, KING MASTER GEORGE, released in 1992.

The gentle vocals feel soothing to a tired heart.

Somehow, it makes you want to listen to it while taking a walk on a sunny day.

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SakurabitoEvery Little Thing

"Sakurabito" MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

SakurabitoEvery Little Thing

The 2008 single “Sakurabito” is a sweeping ballad that pours longing for a loved one, much like waiting for spring to arrive.

When you gaze at cherry blossoms, isn’t it not only their beauty that strikes you, but also a feeling of past memories coming back? Unforgettable moments and hazy recollections gently resurface.

It carries a nostalgic atmosphere that pairs beautifully with such scenes.

Alongside its Japanese-inspired sound, Kaori Mochida’s mellow vocals sink in and bring a comforting sense of calm.

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