[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! A roundup of popular and hit Japanese songs (21–30)
JANE DOEYonezu Kenshi, Utada Hikaru
It’s a number that swells with a piercing sense of longing.
Written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu, with vocals by Yonezu and Hikaru Utada, this track sparks a one-of-a-kind chemical reaction.
It portrays a sorrowful yet beautiful kind of love—like a plea to follow the trail of blood left by one’s own wounds—that loosens your tear ducts the moment you listen.
Utada’s voice, sweeping through like the wind, deepens the song’s melancholic atmosphere even further.
Released in September 2025 on Yonezu’s single “IRIS OUT / JANE DOE,” the track served as the ending theme for the feature-length anime Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc.
Please let yourself sink into the lingering afterglow of the story.
Good job.kocchi no kento
Released in August 2025 to mark Kocchi no Kento’s third debut anniversary, this work is a heartwarming anthem born from his own experience of repeatedly losing to himself.
Even if you can’t become your ideal self, the lyrics affirm that this, in fact, is your true self—an encouraging message that will likely resonate with many in today’s world where comparisons are hard to avoid.
The playful sound, highlighted by a jaunty three-three-seven whistle rhythm, adds extra charm.
It’s a track filled with Kocchi no Kento’s gentle warmth.
Shin-Pen-Pineapple-Apple-PenPikotarō
Pikotaro, who took the world by storm with unforgettable catchphrases and a strikingly unique persona, is back.
Marking the 10th anniversary of his signature hit, this track showcases that one-of-a-kind style that brightens people’s faces with playful word sounds and an irresistibly catchy beat.
It’s the first installment of a project to release 80.8 songs over the year starting in August 2025, and is included on the album “Tottemo Release 80.8 (01).” Perfect for moments when you want to lift your mood without overthinking—or to light up any party with friends.
SenbonzakuraHowaitoFureimu feat. Hatsune Miku
Released in 2011, Senbonzakura is a Vocaloid song that has been loved for so long that it’s still popular even among today’s elementary school students.
Among younger generations, Vocaloid songs are mainstream, and there are plenty of big hits.
If you’re doing a year-end karaoke party with a younger crowd, why not give it a try? Senbonzakura is relatively easy to sing among Vocaloid tracks, but if you find it difficult, listen to Wagakki Band’s 2014 cover.
It’s a very high-energy song, so it’s sure to get everyone fired up!
CharismaxSnow Man
An addictive dance tune that modernizes and elevates the 1990s craze, para para.
Snow Man’s “Charismax,” released in August 2025, impresses with a relentless rap riding over a fast beat, fused with a catchy, unforgettable melody.
The lyrics carry a powerful message about freeing yourself and awakening the charisma everyone holds within.
Just listening makes your hidden energy surge.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to boost your confidence.
Matsuriteranishi yuma feat. izumi pinko
This work, featuring an impressive fusion of traditional Japanese elements and EDM, is a wildly upbeat celebratory number created under the theme of “connecting the world through laughter.” Released in August 2025, it drew major attention for its cross-generational collaboration between singer-songwriter Yuma Teranishi and actor Pinko Izumi.
The structure, where Teranishi’s high-tone vocals intersect with Izumi’s punchy, declamatory singing, delivers a truly festival-like exhilaration.
It might be just the thing to listen to when you want to blow your worries away!
Beep boopFRUITS ZIPPER
A FRUITS ZIPPER number whose dizzyingly fast-paced, comical sound will make your body move before you know it.
The track was released in August 2025.
When it premiered at Saitama Super Arena, the entire venue came together in call-and-response.
Its unpredictable, heart-pounding progression and lyrics that radiate happiness are its charms.
Watch the official live video to learn the choreography, and it’s perfect for singing and dancing with friends at karaoke! Of course, it’s also great for a boost when you need some energy!