Big Hits, Including New Standard Favorites! Best Hits of Popular J-POP Songs
You probably hear J-pop all the time—theme songs from dramas and movies, tracks everyone’s talking about on the radio and music shows, karaoke staples, and more!
That said, there are so many famous J-pop songs out there.
So in this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive look at both newer hits and timeless J-pop classics.
From masterpieces of J-pop’s golden era to must-hear hits of the Reiwa era, we’ve selected a wide range—so you’ll likely run into a few “Oh, I know this one!” moments.
At the beginning of the page, you’ll also find many songs that are widely loved and often played or sung in various settings, so be sure to check them out!
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[New Standard and Massive Hits!] Best J-POP Popular Songs (61–70)
Matsuken Samba IIMatsudaira Ken
A signature song by Ken Matsudaira that sparked a social phenomenon with its lavish, glittering gold kimono and irresistibly cheerful performance.
Though billed as a samba, it blends elements from various Latin music traditions—like flamenco-style calls—creating a sheer, no-logic-needed sense of fun.
The upbeat, unforgettable melody lifts your spirits from the first listen! Released as a mini-album in July 2004, it was also performed at the 55th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen that same year.
Whether on social media or at year-end parties and events, get everyone dancing and the excitement is guaranteed to hit the roof!
I was looking at the moon.Yonezu Kenshi
Since the historic blockbuster success of his 8th single “Lemon,” singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu has become a household name among a wide range of listeners.
His fifth digital-only single, “Tsuki o Miteita,” written as the theme song for FINAL FANTASY XVI—hailed worldwide as a top-tier RPG—features a dramatic arrangement that resonates deeply, mirroring the game’s weighty narrative.
Its vivid, picturesque lyrics draw you in even if you haven’t experienced the game itself.
It’s a grand number that conveys Yonezu’s love for the work.
CAN YOU CELEBRATE?Amuro Namie
When it comes to divas who dominated the latter half of the ’90s, Namie Amuro immediately comes to mind! Back then, she was a charismatic icon for young women—so much so that “Amuraa,” fans who copied her hairstyle and fashion, became a social phenomenon.
Until her retirement in 2018, she left behind numerous classic tracks in the J-pop scene, and among them, this song is arguably the most famous.
Although it was released in 1997, it continues to enjoy strong support today as a staple wedding song.
Youth ClockNGT48
Seishun Dokei is NGT48’s debut single, released in April 2017.
Rika Nakai served as the center.
It ranked first on the Oricon weekly chart.
In July, a remix version by tofubeats was released digitally.
Over DriveJUDY AND MARY
From their formation in 1992 to their breakup in 2001, the rock band JUDY AND MARY was loved not only in Japan’s rock scene but by a wide range of listeners.
After the breakup, vocalist YUKI pursued a solo career, but there are still many devoted Judy and Mary fans even now! It’s amazing how their popularity endures even after they stopped performing.
This song is often cited as one of their signature tracks—its pop sound, YUKI’s characteristically cute lyrics, and above all her distinctive vocal tone make it a truly captivating piece.
Someone other than meNMB48
Among NMB48’s songs, this track drew particular attention.
Released in December 2016, it captivates with a profound message and a daring performance that go beyond the realm of typical idol music.
Centered on a bittersweet love, it delicately weaves complex feelings toward a cherished person.
With Sayaka Yamamoto as center and the group’s first-ever rap incorporated, it’s an ambitious work.
Paired with dynamic choreography, it showcased a new side of the group.
The lyrics vividly portray the emotions of youth and are sure to resonate deeply with anyone struggling in love.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
Released in 2001, this song is ZONE’s signature track and biggest hit.
Many of you may remember it as the theme song for the Kids War drama series at the time.
Its success upon release was remarkable, and even ten years later in 2011, a cover version performed by the voice cast was used as the theme song for the anime Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day, showing how the song has been loved for many years since its release.
Even now, it remains a classic, highly popular as a youth anthem and a summer song.