Popular Japanese music. Latest rankings [2026]

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN22rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

A quintessential number from BUMP OF CHICKEN that I’d like to dedicate to new adults who, even while feeling anxious about a future without clear answers, keep searching for hope.

Released as a single in 2001, it was used as an insert song in the drama Celestial Observation (Hoshizora no Koro/Tentai Kansoku).

Its driving guitar sound and lyrics about looking up at the night sky to seek what can’t be seen resonate deeply with young people standing at the doorway to adulthood.

Even when faced with hardships like an unexpected downpour, it gives you the courage to cherish the present moment and take a step forward.

No matter how rough the waves of society become from here on, listening to this song will help you remember your pure passion and keep going!

Happy SynthesizerEasy Pop23rank/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!

Ghost RuleDECO*2724rank/position

DECO*27 – Ghost Rule feat. Hatsune Miku

A track that truly showcases DECO*27 at their best, fusing fierce scratching with a high-velocity rock sound! The lyrics, depicting the inner turmoil of piling on lies until you can no longer tell who you really are, pierce straight into the listener’s heart.

Released in January 2016 and included on the album “GHOST” later that year, its popularity has never waned.

It’s a classic every Vocaloid fan knows, so give it a listen when you want to fire up a karaoke session or let your emotions explode.

Meltryo25rank/position

Hatsune Miku "Melt"

A gem of a love song that colored the dawn of the Vocaloid scene.

Posted to Nico Nico Douga by ryo in December 2007, it had reached 11.7 million views by December 2017.

You’ll be moved by the lyrics, which straightforwardly depict a girl’s feelings of love when faced with the person she likes.

The piano-driven, fast-paced sound conveys a fluttering, racing heart.

Hatsune Miku’s vocals are also captivating—mechanical yet somehow human.

The track is included on the first album “supercell” and helped lay the foundations of Vocaloid culture.

It’s the perfect song for reminiscing about your youth or getting hyped with friends at karaoke.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro26rank/position

Motohiro Hata / Promise of a Sunflower (Short Ver.)

This is a song by skilled singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata.

It’s the theme song for the animated film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” which portrays Nobita and Shizuka’s marriage.

Some say it was the most-used song for wedding scenes in 2015.

Since it’s a gentle ballad, it’s also perfect for the letter-to-parents scene.

For a bride who loves Doraemon, it’s an obvious choice.

Patchwork Staccatotoa27rank/position

Toa – Patchwork Staccato – ft. Hatsune Miku

This is a Vocaloid song that portrays a bittersweet heartbreak where the characters can’t bring an end to a patchwork, pieced-together relationship.

Released by Toa in June 2014 on Nico Nico Douga, it reached a million views in August 2016.

Over an electropop sound, the protagonist lays bare their feelings, unable to say goodbye.

The gap between the cute-sounding onomatopoeia and the piercingly honest confessions really hits home.

It gently stays by your side when you want to look back on a one-sided love.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE28rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

Spring is a season of meetings and farewells.

This classic song is there to stay close to the loneliness that wells up in unguarded moments.

Its lyrics, which affirm even unrewarding days as part of life, are sure to move anyone.

Released in January 2019 as Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s eighth single, the track was written as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

As vocalist Motoki Omori described it as “a song that affirms everyone,” it’s filled with a warmth that gently supports even those who came up short.

It’s a grand ballad that serves as a guidepost in life—one you’ll want to listen to when you’re feeling anxious or lonely in a new environment.