Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Artist Rankings [2026]

sparkleFuji Kaze78rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Kirari (Official Video)

A popular number by Fujii Kaze with invigorating beats and a light, breezy vocal that feels great.

Packed with a message that makes everyday moments shine, this track is a dance tune that lifts your spirits just by listening.

Released as a single in May 2021, it was written specifically for Honda’s VEZEL commercial.

The lyrics’ worldview—breezily brushing off any hardship and choosing to smile—gently nudges us forward in today’s world.

Its exhilarating sound is perfect for a sunny-day drive or whenever you need a change of pace.

Let yourself sink into the groove that makes you want to move, and feel the positive wind.

Hand in handkuriipuhaipe79rank/position

CreepHyp “Hand in Hand”

Whether it’s a breakup or a fight with a friend, sometimes we crack our relationships and end up regretting it deeply.

Te to Te (Hand in Hand) depicts that very inner turmoil.

Specifically, it portrays the restless late-night hours spent alone, wrestling with one’s thoughts.

The track is by the band CreepHyp, fronted by vocalist Ozaki Sekai-kan.

His high-tone voice and the raw guitar melodies perfectly complement the song’s world.

Give it a listen on a sleepless night.

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SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu80rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Sakurazaka (Full ver.)

A bittersweet yet warm classic ballad that I can’t help but want to listen to when spring arrives.

The lyrics, which wish happiness for a former lover, are deeply moving.

It’s said that Masaharu Fukuyama wrote it based on his own real-life experience, and it’s also famous for being set on an actual slope in Ōta Ward, Tokyo.

Released as a single in 2000, it drew attention as the theme song for the popular segment “Mirai Nikki V” on the variety show “U-nan no Hontoko!” It became a massive hit with over two million copies sold, truly one of the defining songs of the Heisei era.

The tempo is relaxed, so if you sing it carefully, savoring each word, it will surely resonate with the hearts of those around you.

If only you were here so I could hold you.miwa81rank/position

miwa “If You Were Here and I Could Hold You” Music Video

This song, which sings of deep love and a special bond with a baby, is perfect for posting baby reels on Instagram.

Miwa’s delicate vocals and piano melody beautifully express the parent-child connection.

Released in November 2015 and used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Kounodori,” it has touched the hearts of many.

Use it when sharing everyday moments or special times with your baby, and it will surely highlight just how precious they are.

Give it a try in your Instagram Reels!

from Y to YJimii Samu P82rank/position

Hatsune Miku from Y to Y

This is a ballad centered around the piano, captivating for its delicate emotional expression.

Released in 2009 by JimmySam-P, the piece carefully portrays feelings toward a former lover and a sense of loneliness.

The progression from a quiet intro to a gradual swell of emotion is masterful, and the expansion into the higher register in the chorus is deeply moving.

If you’re dealing with the pain of heartbreak or have experienced parting with someone important, why not try singing it?

Happy SynthesizerEasy Pop83rank/position

[Megurine Luka, GUMI] Happy Synthesizer [Original Song]

An exceptionally happy technopop that matches the sweet Valentine’s vibe.

It was released on Niconico in November 2010.

The sparkling synthesizer tones and the relentlessly bright melody, layered with the vocals of Megurine Luka and GUMI, naturally bring a smile to your face.

The lyrics, which try to carry the feelings in your heart on the rhythm, are perfect for anyone who needs a little courage.

It’s also known for being included in the rhythm game “Project SEKAI COLORFUL STAGE! feat.

Hatsune Miku.” The positive energy of this track is sure to give a strong push to anyone hesitating to confess.

Give it a listen to lift your feelings for the one you love!

threadNakajima Miyuki84rank/position

thread

This is one of Miyuki Nakajima’s signature ballads, likening life’s mysterious encounters to a woven fabric and singing of how those bonds might someday warm someone’s heart.

Originally included on her October 1992 album “EAST ASIA,” it was released as a single in 1998 as the theme song for the TBS drama “Seija no Kōshin,” capturing the hearts of many.

It has since been covered by numerous artists, including Bank Band, and even inspired a film released in 2020, carrying the song across generations.

It’s a perfect listen for graduation season, when farewells and new meetings intersect, and for moments when you want to reflect on the bonds with those you cherish.

With its gentle yet powerful message, this timeless classic gives you the courage to take a new step forward.