Ranking of Popular Japanese Songs and J-Pop Among High School Girls [2026]

Horse and deerYonezu Kenshi15rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Horse and Deer

This song is by Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who enjoys immense popularity among younger generations.

It was released as a single in 2019 and was chosen as the theme song for the rugby-themed TV drama “No Side Game.” Though his vocals and the overall tone are gentle, the message embedded in the lyrics is powerful and stirring—it’s the kind of song that makes your heart swell as you listen.

The melody is one you’ll find yourself humming along to.

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Araki Jakkan

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Who’s the One That Made You So Cute? feat. Nagisa Shiranami (CV: Junya Enoki)HONEY WORKS16rank/position

Who’s the One That Made You So Cute? feat. Nagisa Shiranami (CV: Junya Enoki) / HoneyWorks

A song that captures the feelings of a high school girl with an unrequited crush, bewildered by the changes she notices in someone she hasn’t seen in a while.

Released by HoneyWorks in October 2024, the track stands out for its lively rhythm and Junya Enoki’s sweet, heartrending vocals.

The lyrics portray, in a relatable way, the complex emotions of being shaken by discovering new charms in the person she likes.

This work is part of the popular “Confession Executive Committee” series and is included on the album Confession Executive Committee -FLYING SONGS- Omoiai.

With elements likely to spark buzz on social media, it’s poised to resonate with high school girls.

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism17rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

When it comes to Official HIGE DANDism, it has to be this song, Pretender.

Even if you’ve never experienced a love like this, don’t you feel that swell of emotion and grasp the sadness so clearly when you listen? It’s a sad love song, but it powerfully conveys the importance of loving someone—the overwhelming, irreplaceable feeling that nothing can substitute—making it a tear-jerking love song.

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utatane

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InfluencerNogizaka 4618rank/position

Nogizaka46 “Influencer”

It’s a popular song by the hugely successful female idol group Nogizaka46, which includes members like Rina Ikoma and Mai Shiraishi.

The lively, upbeat rhythm characteristic of idol groups makes it easy to sing and listen to, so it’s a track that high school students often listen to, for example on their commute.

Bunny GirlAKASAKI19rank/position

[AKASAKI] Bunny Girl (Lyric Video)

This track, crafted by AKASAKI—who’s been drawing attention on social media—takes inspiration from Showa-era kayōkyoku.

Released in October 2024, it’s a captivating piece set in the nocturnal world, portraying temptation and the twists of romance.

In a world that shows a different face after dark, the protagonist’s wavering emotions about their relationship are expressed through electronic tones and a nostalgic melody.

Perfect for anyone looking to hype things up in class or club activities.

Perform it at karaoke, and you’re guaranteed to have everyone hooked.

366 daysHY20rank/position

HY 366 Days LIVE

From the very first piano intro, people can’t stop their tears—one of HY’s greatest of all time.

Vocalist Izumi Nakasone’s powerful yet heartrending voice is sure to grip your heart.

Be sure to pay attention to the lyrics, too, which portray a bittersweet yet straightforward kind of love.

Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children21rank/position

Mr.Children "Tomorrow never knows" Tour 2015 Incomplete Live

Among Mr.

Children’s many masterpieces, I’d first like to recommend this song, which was also featured in a TV drama.

It’s easy to relate to its theme of friendship, and I think it stands as a timeless, passionate friendship anthem you can keep singing.

The heartfelt lyrics fit the music perfectly.