Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
We’re excited to present the latest Top 100 ranking of classic Japanese pop songs, all in one go, ordered by most views!
We’ve picked out nostalgic hits from the 1980s!
Listening back, you’ll notice many of these tracks are still enjoying a revival today.
Be sure to check them out.
The playlist is updated weekly.
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Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Songs Ranking] (91–100)
Return To MyselfHamada Mari99rank/position

This song, which was featured in a cosmetics commercial and became a hot topic, is by singer-songwriter Mari Hamada, known for her clear, soaring vocals that seem to fly endlessly.
It was released in April 1989 as her ninth single.
Many people have surely been encouraged by this anthem that boldly sings about loving in your own way and living true to yourself.
If you’re feeling “a bit worn out lately” or “a little lonely,” listening to it might just blow all those feelings away.
I want to protect youMatsutōya Yumi100rank/position

A song released by Yumi Matsutoya in 1981.
Chosen as the theme song for the Kadokawa film “The Aimed School,” it became a major hit and is one of the iconic classics of the Showa era.
As the title suggests, it sings of a profound love that gently envelops a cherished person, and a warm resolve to stay by their side while accepting one’s own weaknesses.
Its beautiful melody intertwined with Matsutoya’s tender, translucent vocals quietly soaks into the listener’s heart.
It’s a heartwarming track filled with universal kindness—one that makes you want to listen closely while thinking not only of romantic love, but also of the important people right in front of you, such as family and friends.


