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[2026] Best Karaoke Picks for New Year’s Eve! A Roundup of Popular and Hit Japanese Songs

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Composition nerdmutō
Started performing in bands in junior high school. Influenced by Japanese rock and UK rock, spent over 10 years continuing band activities while creating original songs. Later began producing Vocaloid tracks using Hatsune Miku, with total plays of released songs surpassing 10,000. Has five years of experience writing for music magazines. Currently works as a music writer, director, and composer, keeping a ground-level perspective on the scene by attending live shows across Japan. Now performs at live houses in Tokyo, showcasing guitar playing centered on acoustic guitar and informed by knowledge of chord analysis and guitar scales. Also writes leveraging a broad knowledge of music genres.

This is a must-read for anyone planning to hit karaoke at year-end parties like bōnenkai to wrap up the year! This time, under the theme “Japanese songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke on New Year’s Eve,” we’re showcasing a rich selection of timeless hits spanning the Shōwa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras.

In addition to the classic karaoke favorites, the lineup centers on songs you’ll especially want to sing on New Year’s Eve—tracks themed around the occasion and those famous numbers performed on Kōhaku—so there’s something everyone can enjoy, regardless of generation.

Be sure to check it out!

[2026] Recommended for New Year’s Eve karaoke! A roundup of popular and hit Japanese songs (71–80)

loveHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Koi (Official Video)

loveHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino’s 9th single “Koi,” chosen as the theme song for a drama, became a social phenomenon in 2016.

The so-called “Koi Dance,” featured in the music video, was such a sensation that people of all ages—from children to adults—imitated it and danced along.

I think it would be amazing to hype up New Year’s Eve by dancing the Koi Dance together! Why not sing and dance with everyone?

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STARsKimura Kaera

Kaela Kimura “STARs” [short ver.]

STARsKimura Kaera

Released as a track on Kaela Kimura’s album, this song is a pop-rock piece that’s quintessentially her.

The music video also drew attention for Kaela appearing in a swimsuit.

It’s an upbeat, feel-good number, making it a perfect song for everyone to enjoy on New Year’s Eve.

Why not give it a try and sing it?

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Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents – Ultramarine Weather

Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen

As Tokyo Jihen’s first single, there are probably still many people who love listening to and singing this song.

I remember how shocking and cool it was when it came out, and how I listened to it over and over.

The Duesenberg guitar that Ringo was playing at the time was so popular it even became a talking point.

It’s a killer tune that gets everyone hyped.

Be sure to sing it on New Year’s Eve.

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A Happy New YearMatsutōya Yumi

Happy New Year / A Happy New Year

A Happy New YearMatsutōya Yumi

“A HAPPY NEW YEAR -Happy New Year-” is the song that makes you want to sing it as the New Year approaches.

It’s a track by singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya, who celebrated the 50th anniversary of her debut in 2022 and is beloved across generations.

It was included as the B-side to the 1981 single “Yūyami o Hitori” and featured on the album “Sakuban Oaishimashou.” It’s a cute love song that captures the pure feeling of going to see the one you love.

Along with wishing for happiness in the coming year, it gives you the sense that something truly good is about to happen.

It’s highly recommended as the perfect closing song when you do karaoke on New Year’s Eve.

As you sing it, try picturing the person you most want to share your feelings with.

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evolutionHamasaki Ayumi

Ayumi Hamasaki / evolution (Short Ver.)

evolutionHamasaki Ayumi

The Heisei-era songstress Ayumi Hamasaki’s 20th single.

It was a massive hit at the time.

Recently, it’s been used as a movie theme song and has drawn attention once again.

As we wrap up the year and head into a new one, wouldn’t it be nice for everyone to evolve together? Please give it a sing.

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