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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Big Hits Among the New Standards! Best Hits of Popular J-POP Songs (11–20)
sparkleFuji Kaze
One of Kaze Fujii’s signature songs, its wink-like title and sound shine a light on listeners’ hearts.
Released in May 2021, the track was written for Honda’s VEZEL commercial.
Its four-on-the-floor beat, inspired by ’80s–’90s Eurobeat, leaves a strong impression.
The lyrics include phrases that suggest a search for an exit, carrying a message for those of us living in modern society.
Wrapped in Fujii’s gentle vocals, the song speaks to self-dialogue, growth, and the importance of cherishing the present moment.
It’s a warm, comforting piece that stays close to a tired heart.
First LoveUtada Hikaru
Released in March 1999, this song by Hikaru Utada has long been cherished as a classic that portrays the end of first love.
At just 16, Utada crafted delicate lyrics and paired them with a gentle piano melody that beautifully conveys the pain of heartbreak and the pull of unforgettable memories.
A single cut from the album “First Love,” it reached No.
2 on the Oricon singles chart and was so popular it held the top spot in karaoke rankings for 15 consecutive weeks.
With the release of Netflix’s drama “First Love,” the song continues to transcend generations and captivate younger listeners.
Packed with Utada’s talent, this track stands as a shining milestone of J-pop, offering solace to anyone nursing a bittersweet love.
I wonderDa-iCE
Da-iCE’s song was released in April 2024 as the theme for the drama “Kururi: Who Did I Fall in Love With?” It’s a love song defined by its crystal-clear melody and delicate lyrics, centering on themes of romance and self-discovery.
It beautifully captures the drama’s world and becomes a track that resonates deeply.
With lyrics penned by Sota Hanamura and Taiki Kudo, its romantic wording draws you in.
Beloved on social media, the song continued climbing the charts even after the drama ended, making it one of 2024’s standout hits.
It’s perfect not only to listen to while watching the show, but also for anyone troubled by love or standing at a crossroads in life—you’re sure to find moments you can relate to.
SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama’s classic spring song that achieved double million sales! It was used as the theme song for “Mirai Nikki V,” a segment on the TV show “U-nan no Hontoko!”.
Inspired by Fukuyama’s own heartbreak, it’s a track that continues to play every cherry blossom season as a quintessential spring song, even years after its release.
New EraAdo
A song that became a hot topic as the theme for the film “ONE PIECE FILM RED.” Ado’s powerful vocals are striking.
Produced by Yasutaka Nakata, the track resonates deeply with listeners.
Its lyrics, filled with messages of hope for the future and transformation, give you the courage to face real-world challenges.
Released in 2022, it topped various charts.
It also gained worldwide popularity, becoming the first Japanese song to reach No.
1 on the Apple Music Global Chart.
Perfectly matching the film’s worldview, this is a must-listen for anyone chasing their dreams or ready to take a new step forward.
rainbowAqua Timez
A masterpiece that sings of hope and bonds.
Released in May 2008 as the theme song for the third season of the drama “Gokusen,” it also set a new personal best on the Oricon charts.
It gently accompanies the listener’s heart, carrying the wish for people to keep moving forward even in difficult times.
The song encapsulates the charm of Aqua Timez, with Taiji’s resonant vocals and the band’s performance perfectly complementing each other.
In times of hardship or sorrow, it will surely wrap your heart in warmth.
It’s also great to listen to with friends or family.
Big hits among the new standards, too! Best hits of popular J-POP songs (21–30)
InfluencerNogizaka 46
This is a song by the idol group Nogizaka46, who are soaring in popularity.
The centers are Nanase Nishino and Mai Shiraishi.
It drew attention after being used as the CM song for Haruyama Trading’s “SlaTechno Suit.” It’s also notable for its high-difficulty, high-speed choreography.