[Japan] A collection of J-pop with a traditional Japanese (wa) vibe and Japanese-style taste
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!
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[Japan] A Collection of J-POP with Traditional Japanese (Wa) Vibes and Aesthetic (21–30)
Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi
Released in 1994 as Yumi Matsutoya’s 26th single.
It was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Haru yo, Koi,” and, in addition to music textbooks, its lyrics were included as a poem in the second-year junior high school Japanese textbook published by Mitsumura Tosho.
The single was a million-seller and is one of Matsutoya’s most popular signature songs.
Ah, Osaka dreamin’ nightDoutsuitare Honpo
A track by the MC group Dotsuitare Hompo, which represents the Osaka Division in King Records’ music CD project Hypnosis Mic.
It served as their debut song for the Osaka Division, and the fact that the hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts produced it also drew attention.
Featuring a track built around the tones and melodies of traditional Japanese instruments, along with a light, addictive flow, it establishes a distinctly Japanese flavor while still grounded in hip-hop.
With rapid-fire rap that ramps up the energy, it’s a comical yet soulful number.
[Japan] A Collection of J-POP with Traditional Japanese Flair and Wa Vibes (31–40)
Bloom, oh bloomEGOIST
A beautiful piece whose Japanese sensibilities resonate deep in the heart.
Released in May 2019, it’s a work by EGOIST used as the theme song for the mid-length theatrical animation Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress: The Battle of Unato.
The lyrics celebrate the arrival of spring, featuring memorable imagery of plum and cherry blossoms, butterflies, and honeybees.
Cherry’s powerful vocals blend wonderfully with the tones of traditional Japanese instruments.
It’s recommended for when you want to feel the coming of spring or to mark a new beginning.
The melody makes effective use of the yo scale (yonanuki), evoking the charm of old Japan.
SAKURAikimonogakari
You can feel a sense of traditional Japanese “wa” in the word choice and melody of the chorus.
It’s a song by Ikimonogakari, the music group known for signature tracks like “YELL” and “Arigatou.” Released in 2006 as their major-label debut single, it garnered attention after being featured in a commercial and became a hit.
As a graduation song, it’s perfect for junior high and high school students to listen to during that season.
Dancer in the NightSakanakushon
How about a dance-rock tune with a distinctly Japanese flair? It’s a track by the band Sakanaction, also known for “Shin Takarajima” and “Wasurerarenaino,” released in 2012 as their seventh single.
It was used in a commercial, so many of you have probably heard it.
While the sound arrangement is electronic, the melody line lets you savor elements of ‘wa’ (traditional Japanese style).
It’s a very fresh, stylish, and cool piece.
RISINGYoshida Kyōdai
It’s one of the signature pieces by the Yoshida Brothers, a sibling duo who play Tsugaru shamisen.
Many of you have probably heard it at scenes like entrances, kagami-biraki, or toasts at traditional Japanese weddings.
It’s a superb track where the Japanese-style melodies of the Tsugaru shamisen blend perfectly with aggressive rock.
Time after time ~In the town where flowers dance~Kuraki Mai
A singer-songwriter with a captivating, distinctive whisper voice, Mai Kuraki’s 15th single.
Chosen as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: Crossroad in the Ancient Capital, this number was crafted with the imagery of Kyoto’s changing seasons in mind.
The arrangement foregrounds a wistful acoustic guitar and piano, and the melody—enhanced by Kuraki’s superb vocal prowess—evokes vivid scenes from the lyrics.
It’s a song that lets us rediscover the beauty of Japan, one that truly conveys a sense of wa.