Popular Nostalgic Songs: J-Pop Ranking [1990s Japanese Music Ranking]
We present the latest Top 100 ranking of classic Japanese pop songs all at once, ordered by most views! We’ve picked out nostalgic hits from the 1990s.
Listening again, you’ll notice many songs are still enjoying a revival today.
Be sure to check them out.
The playlist is updated weekly.
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- A collection of nostalgic hits from the Heisei era: Let’s look back at iconic songs from the 1990s and 2000s.
- A must-see for people in their 30s and 40s! A roundup of nostalgic 1990s commercial jingles
- 1990s J-Pop to listen to in summer: classic and hit summer songs
- Popular 80s hits for karaoke. Sing kayōkyoku and pop songs!
- Medley of Nostalgic Japanese Pop Hits from the 1990s
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Tear-jerking J-pop from the ’90s. Hit songs and real tearjerkers.
- [40s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.
Popular Oldies J-Pop Rankings [1990s Japanese Music Rankings] (21–30)
I want to see you.sawada chikako22rank/position
This is Chikaco Sawada’s eighth single, released in 1990, and it can be considered one of her signature songs.
It’s also noteworthy that Kazuo Zaitsu—known as a member of Tulip—composed the music.
The song conveys a poignant sense of longing throughout, depicting the growing swell of emotion as the singer looks back on parting with a loved one, recalling shared memories and words.
Although the farewell took place in winter, the way other seasons are the ones that come to mind suggests that the reality of the separation has not yet been accepted.
ROSIERLUNA SEA23rank/position
In the 1990s, when visual kei bands were coming to the forefront, LUNA SEA stood out for their solid musicianship.
Their 1994 release “ROSIER” is a rock number brimming with drive and speed.
Despite its rock sound, its catchy, accessible melody sticks in your ears.
The powerful yet precise drumming and guitars that color the space are also highlights.
Visually, the PV is compelling as well, showcasing each member’s individuality.
While they’re also known for their ballads, this track—with its straightforward rock sound that really hits—comes highly recommended!
OH MY LITTLE GIRLOzaki Yutaka24rank/position
This is the 14th single by singer-songwriter Yutaka Ozaki, who earned overwhelming support as a youth icon and whose untimely death at 26 sent shockwaves through the public.
Originally included on his debut album “Seventeen’s Map,” it was re-released as a single 11 years later and became a massive hit, selling over a million copies despite being issued posthumously.
Its gentle melody, delivered with vocals that seem to lay emotions bare, makes you feel that the immense presence of Yutaka Ozaki continues to live on in the hearts of his fans.
Frequently tied in with TV dramas and films, and widely covered by numerous artists, it stands as Yutaka Ozaki’s biggest hit.
I’m glad I met you.Koizumi Kyoko25rank/position
Kyoko Koizumi’s 32nd single, released in May 1991, was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Papa to Nacchan” and became a million seller, topping the Oricon charts for five consecutive weeks.
Koizumi herself wrote the lyrics, with composition and arrangement by Takeshi Kobayashi.
While the lyrics—expressing gratitude and regret toward someone after a breakup and a wish to meet again—sound like a love song at first, they were actually written with her father in mind.
Because she wrote them by imagining Masakazu Tamura, who played her father in the drama, as a lover, the song took on this form.
It won the Lyricist Award at the 33rd Japan Record Awards and has been covered by many artists, including Akina Nakamori and Masayoshi Yamazaki.
Its melody, which carries warmth within its poignancy, will gently comfort anyone who has experienced parting from someone dear.
Nameless PoemMr.Children26rank/position
An iconic song representing the 1990s was born.
Its powerful sound and striking lyrics pierce the heart.
Released in June 1996 as Mr.Children’s 10th single, it was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Pure.” This work vividly portrays the complexities of love and human relationships, resonating deeply with listeners.
It’s a song that stands beside those living through difficult times, offering courage.
Sing it at karaoke and it will surely lift your spirits.
Love Story Comes SuddenlyOda Kazumasa27rank/position
A classic by Kazumasa Oda that delicately portrays the subtleties of romance.
Released in February 1991, this song drew major attention as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo Love Story.” The lyrics poignantly sing of the moment when a chance encounter changes fate, leaving a deep impression on many hearts.
The instrumental version was effectively used as background music in the drama, heightening the impact of its climactic scenes.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to feel both the sweetness and the ache of love at the same time.
Wrapped in Oda’s gentle vocals, why not imagine your own beautiful love story?
HONEYL’Arc〜en〜Ciel28rank/position
When it comes to L’Arc-en-Ciel’s signature songs, this is the one! Released as a single in 1998, it was also used as the ending theme for TBS’s “Super Soccer.” Its simple yet energetic melody stands out, and the heartfelt lyrics are part of its charm.
Hyde’s sexy and powerful vocals beautifully capture both the sweetness and the precariousness of love.
Ken’s guitar, with its sharp tone, is equally striking.
It’s perfect for when you need a boost or for listening to while driving.
As a song that signaled a new beginning for L’Arc, it’s a deeply meaningful piece for fans as well.