[2026] Best Karaoke Picks for New Year’s Eve! A Roundup of Popular and Hit Japanese Songs
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!
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[2026] Recommended for New Year's Eve Karaoke! Summary of Popular and Hit Japanese Songs (11–20)
waiting in vainrokudenashi
This song, which portrays a bittersweet love, is marked by Ninjin-san’s fragile, evocative vocals.
The lyrics, expressing the complexities of romantic feelings, are sure to resonate with many listeners.
Released in October 2021, the track is regarded as one of Rokudenashi’s signature works.
Written, composed, and arranged by Ninjin-san, it achieves a unique sound with emotional depth.
Its experimental approach transcends genre boundaries, giving it a special place in their discography.
It’s perfect for those troubled by love or carrying a tender ache in their hearts.
Sing it at karaoke, and it will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Matsuken Samba IIMatsudaira Ken
When you listen to this song, doesn’t it make you feel happy? It’s Matsuken Samba II, sung and danced by Ken Matsudaira.
It’s been performed on year-end shows like NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, so most people have probably heard it at least once, regardless of age.
This dazzling, universally known song is guaranteed to get the crowd going if you sing it at a year-end karaoke party! It’s a fun song for call-and-response, so enjoy interacting with everyone.
If you’re up for it, get a wig and try copying the dance—highly recommended!
North Wind ~May It Reach You~Makihara Noriyuki
This is a winter ballad released by Noriyuki Makihara in 1992.
It’s known as a Sapporo Beer commercial song.
It begins with an intro that carries a somewhat nostalgic atmosphere, and the melody woven by Mackey’s characteristically gentle vocals is striking.
It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to in the cold season.
The lyrics skillfully depict winter scenes and delicately express the wistful feelings for a loved one.
If you sing this song in front of someone special on New Year’s Eve, it will surely put them in a good mood!
New Year’s March!Nijigasaki Gakuen Sukūru Aidoru Dōkōkai
A track released in January 2024 by the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club, featuring an upbeat sound that pleasantly resonates like a celebration of the New Year’s dawn.
With its bright, pop atmosphere and forward-looking lyrics, it vividly portrays the joy of the changing seasons from January through December.
Announced as a collaboration single with the smartphone game “Love Live! School Idol Festival 2 MIRACLE LIVE!,” it reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The powerful phrase “Let’s go! Let’s take the first step!” leaves a strong impression, expressing a hopeful spirit for the year ahead.
It’s a perfect pick for those looking to amp up a New Year’s Eve countdown party or New Year’s gathering.
29Nishino Kana
It’s a memorable song featuring Kana Nishino’s relatable, true-to-life lyrics that depict the feelings of a woman entering her final year in her twenties.
The track is included on the best-of album Love Collection 2 ~mint~, released in November 2018.
In keeping with the album’s title, the lyrics characteristically look back on refreshing, youthful memories.
In the music video, Nishino appears in three different situations, showing a free-spirited expression that’s so typical of one’s twenties.
It’s the perfect song to sing at year-end parties with those about to enter their thirties—guaranteed to get everyone excited!
The Land of ‘Good Job’ (Otsukaresama)Saitō Kazuyoshi
A song perfect for wrapping up the year has been born.
The melodies and lyrics woven by Kazuyoshi Saito are a warm cheer for everyone doing their best day by day.
The gratitude and care embedded in the words “otsukaresama” gently resonate in the heart.
Released in December 2008, this track became widely known as the theme for Takeda Pharmaceutical’s Alinamin commercial, capturing the hearts of many.
It’s a song that everyone leading busy lives should hear.
Sing it at karaoke on New Year’s Eve, and you’ll share a wonderful time—appreciating the hardships of the past year and embracing hope for the year to come.
[2026] Recommended for New Year's Eve Karaoke! A roundup of popular and hit Japanese songs (21–30)
Disco BabyTravis Japan
This is a Travis Japan track that channels 1970s disco culture into contemporary J-pop.
It’s a dance number that feels like it turns the exhilaration of moving under a glittering mirror ball directly into sound.
The lyrics depict the liberating moment of shedding your shyness and stepping onto the floor, conveying an almost overwhelming urge to live this moment to the fullest.
It’s the perfect party tune for getting hyped with friends.