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 Standards and Massive Hits Too!] Best Hits of Popular J-POP Songs (71–80)
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism
Since this song was released in 2019, Official HIGE DANDism quickly rose to prominence as a domestic rock band.
Every track they’ve put out since has been a hit, but this one is arguably the most famous and beloved of them all.
Calling themselves a piano pop band, they perfectly blend stylish, sophisticated piano phrases with flowing guitar sounds, and together with the beautifully soaring vocals, it’s a song cherished by a remarkably wide range of listeners.
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.
AutomaticUtada Hikaru
In 1998, Hikaru Utada made her debut with this song, and she was only 15 at the time! Having been exposed to music from a young age, she quickly became a massive breakout star thanks not only to her overwhelming vocal ability and expressive delivery that belied her age, but also to the high level of polish of her cool tracks.
Since then, she has been active as one of the leading artists at the center of the J-pop scene.
Her singing style, with its solid, groove-driven feel reminiscent of Western music, is exceptionally sophisticated and still sounds completely fresh today.
God of RomanceHirose Kōmi
Released in 1993 as Kohmi Hirose’s third single, it became a million seller.
Used in commercials for the ski equipment retailer Alpen, it turned into a winter staple song.
It’s an uplifting love-pop tune that makes you feel fun and positive.
TRUE LOVEFujii Fumiya
Released as Fumiya Fujii’s second solo single, it became a massive hit selling over two million copies as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Asunaro Hakusho.” Showcasing a cool side of Fumiya Fujii distinct from his days with The Checkers, the song drew many new fans.