Most Popular Japanese Songs and J-Pop Among Junior High School Girls [2026]

Ra, a storyaimyon41rank/position

What If…

This song is striking for its lyrics that dwell on “falling in love” and how difficult it can be.

It’s a track by Aimyon, the singer-songwriter from Hyogo Prefecture, included on her second album, Momentary Sixth Sense, released in 2019.

Though the piece has a bright, marching-band pop feel, as you follow the lyrics—just as I mentioned above—it gradually leaves you with a bittersweet feeling.

If only we could shout “I love you!” to the person we like without overthinking it… That’s the sort of thought this song stirs up.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

I can’t stand that cute girl.narumiya42rank/position

I can't stand that cute girl – Narumiya

“That Cute Girl I Can’t Stand,” which is going viral on TikTok and YouTube, is a track by next‑gen singer‑songwriter Narumiya.

Set to a driving, Japanese‑tinged sound, it portrays a somewhat downbeat love story.

Narumiya is known for the contrast between her sound and lyrics, and this song stands out even among her works.

Another highlight is the gap between her whispery, girlish vocals and the lyrical content.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya43rank/position

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani

Tatsuya Kitani’s “Aoi no Sumika” is a masterpiece from a multi-talented artist that captures the transience of youth.

With outstanding vocals and a powerful ensemble, it grips listeners’ hearts and won’t let go.

The song was also used as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death, further expanding Kitani’s appeal.

Its fast tempo and driving melody are brimming with an energy that makes you want to replay it over and over, while the emotional lyrics evoke snapshots of youth.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing at karaoke, but its difficulty level demands practice, stoking a singer’s desire to take on the challenge.

Still, the rain falls, huh.Tsuyu44rank/position

Tsuyu – Even So, the Rain Still Falls MV

A heartrending song that portrays the everyday world where the rain keeps falling.

It’s included on Tsuyu’s album “Yappari Ame wa Furun da ne” (“I Guess the Rain Still Falls”).

The sorrow of heartbreak and parting, as well as feelings of loneliness, are expressed with great delicacy, and it’s the kind of song that brings you to tears when you listen.

Released in April 2024, this work was also chosen as the theme song for the film “The Melody of Raindrops.” Rei’s clear, translucent vocals and Miro’s piano tones resonate deeply in the heart.

If you ever feel like spending a rainy day lost in thought by yourself, why not give this track a listen? It’s sure to soothe your soul.

Charlesbarūn45rank/position

Charles / Balloon (self cover)

This is one of Balloon’s signature songs; he also works under the name of singer-songwriter Keina Suda.

The v flower version was released first in 2016, followed by a self-cover version.

While the song is rhythmic, stylish, and fast-paced, the lyrics depict a parting with someone important, squeezing your heart as you listen.

It’s a masterpiece that sparked a major movement online, so some of you might already be singing it often at karaoke.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem