Popular Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking: 1970s Japanese Music
We’re excited to present the latest top 100 ranking of nostalgic Japanese pop songs, introduced all at once in order of most views!
We’ve picked out beloved classics that were hits in the 1970s.
Listening again like this, you’ll notice many songs are still enjoying revivals today.
Be sure to check them out.
The playlist is updated every week.
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- [Showa Kayō] A roundup of Japanese love songs that hit in the 1970s
- [1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
- Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1970s: the golden age of idols and kayōkyoku (Japanese pop songs)
- 1970s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
- [Japanese Music] A Collection of Heart-Touching Hit Folk Songs from the 1970s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese idols from the 1970s
- Nostalgic yet fresh!? Classic masterpieces of Japanese rock from the 1970s and 1980s
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 1960s
- [Today's Recommended Nostalgic Songs] Memories from those days come flooding back! A collection of gem-like classics
Popular Nostalgic Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking [1970s Japanese Music Ranking] (41–50)
Light Blue RainYagami Junko41rank/position
A number released in September 1978 by Junko Yagami, distinguished by its clear, sweeping melody and crystalline high notes.
The lyrics, which nostalgically recall a lost love, portray memories of gentle, peaceful days alongside the loneliness and sorrow of having lost them.
The shifting emotions, expressed through imagery of rain, leave a strong impression and resonate deeply with listeners.
The song became a major breakthrough following her appearance on the popular TV show “The Best Ten,” marking a turning point in Yagami’s career.
It’s a captivating track you’ll want to add to your karaoke repertoire, and it continues to be loved across generations.
School HeavenFingā 542rank/position
This song, a big hit in the 1970s, is a youth anthem that sings about the bittersweetness of school life.
It expresses the protagonist’s feelings as he gazes at the beautiful classmate sitting next to him during class, set to a lively melody.
Released in March 1974, it has long been loved as one of Finger 5’s signature tracks.
It was also featured in the 2001 film Waterboys, becoming a classic cherished across generations.
Using it in Instagram Reels can create a nostalgic vibe.
It’s a great pick for those who reminisce about their youth and for young people enjoying their school days.
Words of FarewellKaientai43rank/position
When it comes to standard numbers that symbolize the season of farewells, many people probably think of this famous song by Kaientai.
While it actually sings of the pain of a broken heart, it’s filled with deep affection that wishes happiness for the other person, making it a fitting choice for a wedding—a fresh new beginning.
Released as a single in November 1979, it became widely known as the theme song for the TV drama “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3-B,” starring Tetsuya Takeda.
Its message—overcoming sorrow to discover kindness—is perfect for scenes where the couple sets off on their journey together as husband and wife, or for expressing gratitude to the parents who raised them.
Also included on the album “Wajinden,” this song gently adds color to that moving moment when you hold back tears and set out with a smile.
As time goes bysawada kenji44rank/position
Among the masterpieces of the Showa era, this work shines with a special brilliance—a gemlike ballad that portrays the love between a man and a woman as it changes with the passage of time.
Kenji Sawada’s sultry vocals strike a perfect balance between heartache and hope.
Released in August 1975, it topped the Oricon weekly chart for five consecutive weeks.
It was also used as an insert song for the TBS drama “Akuma no Youna Aitsu,” leaving a lasting impression on many hearts.
It’s a recommended track for healing the pain of heartbreak or reminiscing about precious memories with someone dear.
Truly, a Showa classic that resonates across generations.
ChampionArisu45rank/position
A signature song by Alice that dominated Japan’s music scene in the late 1970s.
With its distinctive fusion of folk and rock, it became their only single to reach No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
The lyrics, said to mirror the figure of boxer Cassius Naito, portray a veteran champion in decline and deftly capture the emotions of someone facing a turning point in life.
The song also drew major attention on television, spending four consecutive weeks at No.
1 on TBS’s “The Best Ten.” Featuring Shinji Tanimura’s powerful vocals and the exquisite harmonies of Takao Horiuchi and Toru Yazawa, this is a track we recommend to anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
I am the wind.Karumen Maki & OZ46rank/position
It’s a track that sends chills down your spine with Maki Carmen’s voice—like a witch’s monologue, or a cry from the soul.
The structure unfolds from a quiet narration into a storm-like roar, powerfully shaking the listener’s emotions.
This dark, fantastical atmosphere seems perfect for setting the mood on a mysterious Halloween night.
The piece is included on the classic album “Carmen Maki & OZ,” released in January 1975.
If you use it as BGM for a night when you want to forget the everyday and set yourself free, it might awaken the true self sleeping deep within your heart.
Kanda Riverkaguya hime47rank/position
A signature work by Kaguya-hime that portrays the days of poor yet happy youth and a poignant farewell.
Released in September 1973, this folk song sold an impressive 1.6 million copies.
The lyrics, which depict the lives and emotions of impoverished students, are expressed in the “four-and-a-half tatami folk” style that symbolized youth culture at the time.
Its portrayal of pure love in conflict with societal values resonates deeply with listeners.
Covered by many artists, it remains a timeless classic cherished across generations.
Accompanied by the gentle sound of a folk guitar, it offers a moving vocal performance.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel the quiet happiness of everyday life spent with someone special.
You’re Kiwi, Papaya, and Mango, aren’t you?Nakahara Meiko48rank/position
For those who spent their youth around the time this song became a hit, it’s surely a deeply nostalgic track that could be called a true monument of Showa-era pop.
When I first heard the title “Kimitachi Kiwi Papaya Mango dane,” I remember thinking, “What kind of song title is that??” Apparently, the name was specified by an advertising agency.
The lyrics were written by the singer herself, Meiko Nakahara, together with the songwriting master Yukinojo Mori.
The embedded video is a cover version included on Ai Furihata’s first cover mini-album, “Memories of Romance in Summer.” It sounds fun to compare it with the original, doesn’t it?
The season the sun gave usaoi sankakujougi49rank/position
It’s a memorable song that gently embraces the joys and sorrows of youth.
With friendship as its theme, it delicately portrays the feelings of young people.
Its hopeful message—about facing forward and walking on together with friends—strikes a chord.
Released in February 1972 as Aoi Sankaku Jōgi’s second single, it was chosen as the theme song for a Nippon TV drama.
It became a major hit, earning newcomer awards and the honor of a first appearance on Kōhaku.
It’s the perfect song for looking back on memories with friends or cherishing encounters with new companions.
Why not hum along together as you reminisce about your youthful days?
Cutie HoneyMaekawa Yōko50rank/position
Sung by Yoko Maekawa, this song is a classic anime track that gained popularity alongside its lively dance.
Its sexy vocals and striking opening line leave a strong impression, and the unforgettable melody sticks with you after just one listen.
Used as the opening theme for a TV anime broadcast starting in 1973, it was loved by a wide audience beyond the realm of girls’ anime.
The piece reflects the protagonist’s free-spirited and brave nature, capturing the fresh emotions of youth.
Released in April 2008, this version has been featured across various media, including anime remakes and live-action films.
Many people still remember the nostalgic choreography, making it a guaranteed hit at dance parties and wedding performances.