[Women] Popular Japanese Karaoke Songs Ranking [2026]

frecklesJUDY AND MARY15rank/position

3. Freckles – JUDY AND MARY – The Power Source – 1997 – JAM

When it comes to JUDY AND MARY’s signature songs, many people probably think of this track.

Released in February 1996, it’s also well known as the theme song for the anime Rurouni Kenshin.

YUKI’s distinctive high-tone vocals blend perfectly with the band’s tight sound, resulting in a work that topped the Oricon charts and became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.

The lyrics depict the complex emotions after a breakup, yet the song also conveys a positive outlook.

If you sing it at karaoke, watch out for the high notes—aim to sing smoothly without straining your throat.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo16rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

It’s a renowned ballad whose prayer for universal love and peace truly strikes a chord.

Written by Yo Hitoto in response to a tragic event in the United States and with wishes for her friend’s happiness, the lyrics gently and warmly resonate with listeners.

Released in February 2004 as her fifth single, the song was also used as the theme for Nippon TV’s “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and as a movie theme.

It became a long-running hit, staying on the Oricon charts for 125 consecutive weeks, and is known for being covered by many artists.

With its relaxed tempo and comfortable vocal range, it’s perfect for singing your heart out at karaoke.

On a calm spring day, why not sing it while thinking of someone special?

TOMORROWMayo Okamoto17rank/position

Mayo Okamoto “TOMORROW” Music Video

This song is packed with the charms of Mayo Okamoto as a singer-songwriter and has long been loved as a message song that delivers hope and courage.

It gently conveys the importance of believing in yourself and the bravery to take a step toward tomorrow—a timeless classic.

With calm piano tones and a warm, heartfelt vocal, it resonates deeply.

Since its 1995 release, it has moved many as the theme song for the drama “Second Chance” and was included on the album of the same name, “TOMORROW.” This work will surely give you a gentle push when you feel lost in life or are about to take a new step forward.

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko18rank/position

“Cruel Angel’s Thesis” MUSIC VIDEO (HD ver.) / Zankoku na Tenshi no Te-ze “The Cruel Angel’s Thesis”

The anime tie-in song performed by Yoko Takahashi, whose charismatic vocals are captivating, tells a grand story of a boy’s growth and his challenge toward a new world.

It’s a compelling track filled with dramatic expression and a determined drive to move forward.

Released in October 1995, the song was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Neon Genesis Evangelion and caused a major sensation.

It consistently ranks high on karaoke popularity charts, making it a song that bridges generations without creating a gap, even in mixed-age gatherings.

It’s a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of anime songs—one you should definitely sing at karaoke.

To Those Who Know the Blue of the Skyaimyon19rank/position

Aimyon – A Person Who Knows the Blue of the Sky [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This is one of Aimyon’s signature songs, known for its beautiful lyrics that feel like a snapshot from a youthful chapter.

It’s a heartfelt ballad that soaks in with a bittersweet mood as the singer looks back on memories with a lover under a clear blue sky.

Released in October 2019, it was also used as the theme song for an animated film of the same title.

Aimyon’s uniquely delicate sensibility blends perfectly with a striking, lush string arrangement.

It’s an ideal pick for teenage girls who want to enjoy a comfortable time at karaoke.

With a medium tempo that’s easy to sing, it’s great for fun moments with friends and also recommended for quietly singing on your own.

I’ll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma ft. SoulJa20rank/position

Aoyama Thelma feat. SoulJa / I'm by Your Side

Centered on the heartache of a long-distance relationship, this work features Thelma Aoyama’s gentle, delicate vocals that leave a strong impression.

The lyrics, depicting the intertwined feelings of a man and a woman, resonated with many listeners and turned the song into a hit.

Released in January 2008, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was also selected as NTT Docomo’s spring campaign song, drawing even more attention.

Known as one of Thelma Aoyama’s signature tracks, it remains a popular choice for karaoke.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone special or reflect on memories of love.

This heartwarming love song is beloved by listeners across generations.

User ManualNishino Kana21rank/position

Kana Nishino “Torisetsu” MV Full

Kana Nishino’s “Torisetsu” is a unique love song that likens me, the person, to an instruction manual.

I felt it’s a song that seems like it existed before, yet didn’t! Aside from the chorus, it’s more spoken than sung, so even those who are tone-deaf can enjoy it without worrying much about the melody line.

However, because there are a lot of words, where you breathe and where you break the phrases is important.

It might be good to sing as if you’re actually talking to someone! If you sing with no expression, your vocal placement drops into your throat and becomes straining, so try raising your eyebrows and bringing your vocal placement up to eyebrow level.

Aim to sing as lightly as possible.

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Kubota Mami

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