[Piano Beginners] J-POP That Looks Hard but Is Surprisingly Playable [2026]
Classical piano classics are great, but I also want to try playing my favorite J-pop hits on the piano… If you’ve ever felt that way as a beginner, you’re probably not alone.
That said, many J-pop songs aren’t structured with the piano in mind, so it can be tricky to recreate them using only the piano.
In this article, we’ve put together a selection of J-pop songs—from nostalgic classics to recent hits—that might seem a bit daunting at first but have plenty of beginner-friendly piano arrangements.
Even just tracing the melody with your right hand will make you think, “It’s that song!” right away, and adding some left-hand accompaniment little by little makes it even more fun.
We hope this article inspires you to express your favorite J-pop on the piano!
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[Piano Beginners] J-POP That Looks Hard but Is Surprisingly Playable [2026] (1–10)
flameLiSA
“Homura,” sung by LiSA, was specially written as the theme song for the Demon Slayer: Mugen Train movie, which propelled the Demon Slayer series to widespread popularity starting in 2019.
It became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on various Oricon and Billboard charts.
The song combines coolness with grandeur, yet its relaxed tempo actually makes it surprisingly approachable to play on the piano.
Take your time to place the notes carefully and give it some practice.
About meMrs. GREEN APPLE
Boku no Koto by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE was featured as the cheer song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament and as the theme of a CalorieMate commercial portraying support for students taking entrance exams.
The lyrics, said to be written under the theme of a “hymn to life,” depict the beauty of pursuing your dreams in your own way.
Another charm of the song is its grand sound, which elevates the moving lyrics.
While piano performances can tend to sound restrained, it’s best to incorporate plenty of dynamics to achieve a large, expansive performance.
mixed nutsOfisharu Higedan Dism
With both rhythm and note density, Official Hige Dandism’s “Mixed Nuts” offers plenty of substance for a recital performance.
Released in 2022, the song was chosen as the opening theme for the anime SPY×FAMILY.
For the ad-lib-like intro, it’s best to play freely and flamboyantly to create a sense of “it’s about to begin.” Because the notes are intricately placed, be careful not to miss any.
The rhythm can also be tricky, so practice at a slow tempo until you get used to it.
Once you can play it in tempo, it’s an incredibly satisfying piece.
[Piano Beginners] J-POP That Looks Hard but Is Surprisingly Playable [2026] (11–20)
Standing on stageYOASOBI
This work by YOASOBI was created as a theme song for NHK’s sports coverage.
It centers on athletes’ challenges and inner conflicts, as well as the tension of stepping onto the big stage—feelings the artists themselves can relate to.
While energetic in tone, it features a moving melodic line.
It portrays the relentless pursuit of dreams, bonds with teammates, and the moments when hard work is rewarded, making it a song that resonates not only with those dedicated to sports but with anyone striving toward their dreams.
Since there are many intricate notes, it’s best to practice carefully at a playable tempo first, then gradually match the original tempo.
MiracleGReeeeN
Kiseki, a signature song by GReeeeN, a four-member band from Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture.
Despite keeping their faces hidden, they have achieved great success with their live tours and captivated many fans.
This song was the theme for the 2008 TV drama ROOKIES, garnered a huge response, and remains beloved today.
The lyrics describe a meeting as a “miracle” (kiseki) and the path two people walk together as a “track” or “trace” (kiseki), expressing the joy of walking through life with a loved one.
It portrays the ability to feel love in everyday, ordinary moments, conveying a warmth that resonates with listeners.
The irresistibly singable melody is another charm.
Why not try playing this piece on the piano as well?
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA
LiSA, a leading figure in the anisong world, rose to even greater prominence with “Gurenge,” which was used as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and became a social phenomenon.
Centered on themes of strength and confronting hardship, the song carries messages of self-growth and hope.
LiSA wrote the lyrics herself and is said to have sung it while identifying with the anime’s protagonist, Tanjiro.
In October 2019, it won the Theme Song Award at the Newtype Anime Awards 2018–2019.
Not only is it famous—it’s undeniably cool—so why not try playing this piece on the piano?
Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI
Created by SEKAI NO OWARI, this piece is used as the 25th opening theme for the anime ONE PIECE.
The lyrics, which carry the message of turning your weaknesses into allies and soaring high, give courage to listeners.
With its bright key and upbeat, energetic tempo, it’s guaranteed to be a blast to play! Even just tracing the melody with your right hand will give you a sense of accomplishment when you make it to the end.
Give it a try!