[Japanese Music] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A Collection of Hit 00’s J-POP Songs
As we find ourselves in the mid-2020s, it’s surprising to think the 2000s were already more than 20 years ago.
It’s fascinating that music and culture from that era are being rediscovered and celebrated—particularly through the so-called “Y2K” boom—led by younger generations who were born around that time.
In this article, we’re focusing on Japanese hit songs from the 2000s, gathering beloved tracks that colored the era under the broad theme of pop music.
Especially in the early 2000s, the momentum from the ’90s carried over, giving rise to massive nationwide hits.
We hope not only younger listeners but also those now in their 30s, who likely spent their youth in the 2000s, will enjoy reminiscing with these nostalgic classics!
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[J-Pop] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A roundup of 00’s J-POP hit songs (11–20)
swallowtail butterflyPorunogurafiti
Here is a song that epitomizes the early 2000s.
This classic by Porno Graffitti paints an eternally unrequited love through Latin-flavored melodies and beautiful lyrics.
Through the wings of a swallowtail butterfly, it vividly expresses the exhilaration of love, despair, and the unending pursuit of affection.
Released in June 2001, the song quickly drew attention, with all three members appearing in the tie-in commercial.
The “la-la-la” chorus that bridges the interlude to the grand finale was recorded with the voices of 3,000 concertgoers, pulling listeners deep into the world of the music.
It’s a must-listen for anyone struggling with love, searching for life’s meaning, or feeling nostalgic for 2000s music.
Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme
A love story portrayed through the changing of the four seasons.
This classic expresses deepening affection alongside seasonal shifts with a catchy melody and rap.
Released in September 2009 as Hilcrhyme’s second single, its distinctive fusion of hip-hop and J-pop captured the hearts of many.
It was featured as the ending theme for various TV programs and even inspired cell phone novels, becoming one of the defining songs of the 2000s.
It’s best enjoyed while imagining a couple savoring Japan’s seasonal scenery—spring cherry blossoms, summer fireworks, autumn foliage, and winter snowscapes.
It resonates whether you listen with your partner or when you want to reflect on someone special.
Secret of my heartKuraki Mai
Released in the early 2000s, this song became a signature work in Mai Kuraki’s career.
Issued as a single shortly after her debut, it was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime Detective Conan, marking the beginning of her long-standing association with the series.
Centered on inner conflict and hope for the future, the lyrics portray the difficulty of expressing one’s true feelings and the experience of harboring hidden secrets.
Released in April 2000, the track reached No.
16 on the Oricon year-end chart and garnered multiple awards.
It even saw a U.S.
release, attracting attention both at home and abroad.
It’s a perfect song for anyone troubled by love or struggling to convey their feelings.
cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai
It was released in 2003 as Ai Otsuka’s second single.
It was chosen as the opening theme for TBS’s music program “COUNT DOWN TV” for December 2003, and in 2004 it became the first “chaku-uta” ringtone to surpass one million downloads.
As a pure love song, it’s also popular for karaoke.
I’ll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma ft. SoulJa
Starting with a gently atmospheric melody, this song is marked by the exquisite duet between Thelma Aoyama and SoulJa.
The lyrics, which portray the bittersweet feelings of a couple in a long-distance relationship, resonate deeply and evoke empathy in many listeners.
Released in January 2008, the track became a massive hit, even earning a Guinness World Record as the best-selling full-track ringtone (chaku-uta full) in Japan.
A special work in Thelma Aoyama’s career, it has continued to be loved over the years and was performed again on its 15th anniversary.
It’s especially recommended for those living apart from someone important or in a long-distance relationship.
With lyrics that gently embrace the heart and a beautiful melody, it’s sure to give you courage.
White LoversKuwata Keisuke
It was released in 2001 as Keisuke Kuwata’s seventh single.
Among his solo singles, this song recorded his highest sales.
It was used as the campaign song for Coca-Cola’s No Reason campaign, and Kuwata himself appeared in the commercial.
The music video also features Teruyoshi Uchimura of the comedy duo Ucchan Nanchan.
[J-POP] Classic 2000s pop songs. A collection of 00s J-POP hits (21–30)
Tomorrow will surely be a good day.Takahashi Yuu
This is singer-songwriter Yu Takahashi’s 12th major-label single, which was also used as the theme song for the Daihatsu “Cast Activa” commercial.
The music video was directed by Takahashi himself, making it a work that showcases the blossoming of his talents in both music and film.