[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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- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
[Japanese Music] Classic 2000s pop songs. A roundup of hit tracks from 00’s J-POP (41–50)
HOTEL PACIFICSazan Ōrusutāzu
Just hearing the passionate sound of the intro transports you straight to a midsummer beach! This is a classic of Latin kayō rock from Southern All Stars.
Released in July 2000 as their 45th single, the song is said to be infused with love for Chigasaki, Keisuke Kuwata’s hometown.
The music video is also memorable for Kuwata, sporting blond hair, performing a dance that incorporates a gag from the comedy trio Dachou Club.
If you’re in the mood to spend a passionate summer night, why not give it a listen?
Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro
It was released in 2003 as Naotaro Moriyama’s second single.
It was chosen as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki” and became Moriyama’s biggest hit.
Although the song was created in response to a friend’s wedding, it has become a piece often sung at graduation ceremonies and farewell parties.
The Maiden with Flaxen HairShimatani Hitomi
Released in 2002 as Hitomi Shimatani’s seventh single.
It was featured as the song in Kao’s “Essential Damage Care” commercial that Shimatani appeared in during spring 2002, and it became a major hit.
It turned into Shimatani’s biggest hit and a staple karaoke song.
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
Released in March 2001 and featured as an insert song in the drama Astronomical Observation, this is one of the quintessential tracks by BUMP OF CHICKEN.
Later included on the album THE LIVING DEAD, the song portrays a theme of projecting oneself onto the stars shining in the night sky while searching for a future with no clear answers.
Hearing lyrics like “stopping before a railroad crossing and pondering which path to take” may stir up the poignant conflicts of youth that almost everyone has experienced.
Even knowing they can’t reach them, the protagonist stretching out a hand toward the stars will surely shine a strong light on your heart as you chase your dreams amid uncertainty.
Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki
Released in 2008 as Angela Aki’s eighth single, this song is an arrangement of “Tegami,” which was originally written as the set piece for the junior high school division of the 2008 NHK National School Music Competition, adapted for her own vocals.
It was also used in a Japan Post Group commercial and became a major hit.
budKobukuro
It was released in 2007 as Kobukuro’s 14th single.
Written specifically as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad,” the song—filled with lyricist Kentaro Kobuchi’s love for his late mother—won the 49th Japan Record Award.
I have wings on my backKinKi Kids
This work features melodies infused with elements of folk music and beautifully melancholic harmonies.
It portrays the burning spirit of striving to live strongly in the face of hardship and the importance of holding on to hope.
With the clear, transparent vocals of Tsuyoshi Domoto and Koichi Domoto delivering a powerful message, the song was released in February 2001 and left a deep impression on viewers as the theme song for the NTV Saturday drama “Arata Mukai’s Animal Diary: The Misfortunes of Rosinante.” It’s a song that gives you the courage to take a step forward—when you’re worn out from trying so hard, or when you’re about to embark on something new.