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!] J-POP Best Popular Songs (51–60)
In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez
This is Aqua Timez’s memorable first single—a refreshing song that became such a smash hit it still appears on karaoke rankings.
It makes you feel like you can keep moving forward while staying true to yourself.
Shinymiwa
This song is memorable for its warm melody that feels wrapped in kindness and love, and its lyrics that gently resonate with listeners are truly appealing.
Miwa’s clear, transparent vocals beautifully express the desire to be a softly embracing presence.
Released in May 2017, the track was also featured in a Sokenbicha commercial, reaching many ears.
It drew attention as well for being the first time Miwa’s support band members appeared in the music video.
It’s perfect for the fresh, breezy season—highly recommended for spring or early-summer drives, and ideal for making memories with someone special.
globeYonezu Kenshi
The theme song from The Boy and the Heron, said to be the final film by Studio Ghibli master Hayao Miyazaki, released in 2023.
Kenshi Yonezu wrote this song specifically for the movie.
In keeping with the film’s complete secrecy, the song Spinning Globe also seems to gain depth, as if the piece itself were shrouded in a veil of mystery.
The lyrics are protean, changing in interpretation depending on the listener—about a human life, or about loving someone.
It’s a song I hope will endure for decades, one I want to listen to again and again.
Hold me in the great skyUtada Hikaru
This is a song by Hikaru Utada, one of Japan’s leading female artists.
It became a hot topic when it was featured in a Suntory Natural Mineral Water commercial.
The song has a bright and refreshing feel.
If you haven’t listened to it yet, you should definitely give it a try.
[New Standard and Massive Hits!] Best J-POP Popular Songs (61–70)
MissingKubota Toshinobu
This is one of Toshinobu Kubota’s signature songs, first included on his 1986 debut album “SAKE IT PARADICE.” Despite not being released as a single, it became an exceptional hit and remains a classic that many artists continue to cover.
To Those Who Know the Blue of the Skyaimyon
It’s the theme song of the anime film of the same name released in 2019 by Aimyon.
It’s a breakup song, yet I can’t help but feel a breezy freshness blowing through it… and there’s a hint of nostalgia, too.
The charm she has as a vocalist overflows here, and it’s a wonderful track that captures Aimyon’s endlessly blue worldview.
Best FriendNishino Kana
This is Kana Nishino’s 9th single, released in 2010.
The lyrics focus on friendship between girls and convey heartfelt gratitude for the support they’ve given.
It’s become a standard new graduation song for the younger generation! It’s a song you’ll want to sing to a close friend you’re parting ways with.