Popular Japanese music. Latest rankings [2026]

Because I fell in loveaimyon96rank/position

Aimyon “Because I Fell in Love” Studio Recording Scene

After a love ends, there are times when it feels like a gaping hole has opened in your heart, aren’t there? Only after losing it do you realize how precious it was, and your chest tightens with the ache of knowing you can’t go back.

On nights filled with that helpless feeling, the ballad included on Aimyon’s album “Momentary Sixth Sense” gently stays by your side.

Released in February 2019, the album features a simple sound centered on acoustic guitar.

It also drew attention as the campaign song for “LINE Xmas 2019.” In fact, this track was recorded in a single take in the studio.

That’s why you can truly feel the trembling breaths and the wavering of emotions.

If you listen alone in a quiet room, lost in memories, time that had stood still might begin to move again.

Christmas songback number97rank/position

back number – Christmas Song (full)

This is one of back number’s signature winter songs, memorable for its beautiful melody that seems to resonate across the winter night sky.

Released in November 2015 as their 14th single, it became a massive hit as the theme song for the drama “5→9: From Five to Nine.” It’s now cherished as a classic winter tune.

The song’s greatest charm lies in its lyrics, which straightforwardly express a deepening affection for someone special.

You can vividly picture the protagonist overflowing with the desire to see the one they love, and it makes your heart ache as you listen.

Interestingly, aside from the title, it doesn’t use any words tied to a specific day, giving it a universal love song quality that truly resonates.

Also included on the album “Chandelier,” this heartwarming track is perfect for a quiet night when you’re thinking of someone important.

SenbonzakuraKurousa-P98rank/position

Senbonzakura - Kurousa-P - Vocaloid cover - Acoustic guitar with vocals

Some people might think Senbonzakura has a difficult image, but it’s actually a song I recommend for beginners too.

If it feels hard, try putting a capo on the 5th fret.

Just being able to play the intro phrase will definitely get you hyped.

Playing the chorus with arpeggios gives it a cool, mature vibe—highly recommended!

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Robinsonsupittsu99rank/position

Spitz / Robinson

The moment that introductory guitar arpeggio starts to play, many of you probably find the scenes from those days vividly coming back, don’t you? This is a song by Spitz that I want you to listen to when you feel like pausing for a moment amid the hustle of work and home life.

Released in 1995 as their 11th single, it became a massive hit that put their name on the map.

It’s also well known for being used as the ending theme of the variety show “Imada Koji no Shibuya-kei Uraringo” and as an insert song in the drama “Hakusen Nagashi.” Masamune Kusano’s high, crystal-clear voice and the bittersweet yet warm melody are sure to gently comfort a tired heart.

Included on the album “Honey,” this classic is a song that resonates all the more deeply now that we’re adults.

Friend ~Time to Depart~yuzu100rank/position

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

Released in 2013 and also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” this number was chosen as the set piece for the middle school division in the 80th NHK National School Music Competition, so many people may have sung it in chorus.

It was created out of feelings for the staff who supported the tour after the Great East Japan Earthquake, and its theme is the strong bond that connects us under the same sky even when we’re apart.

Its beautiful melody and Yuzu’s signature warm harmonies really resonate in the heart.

It’s a song of encouragement that you’ll especially want to hear during the season of farewells.