Since his debut in 1990, Noriyuki Makihara has continued to produce numerous classic and hit songs.
“Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana,” which he wrote and composed for SMAP, became a nationwide hit beloved across Japan.
Here is a ranking of Makihara’s popular songs.
- Masaki Makihara’s famous and popular songs
- Noriyuki Makihara’s Tearjerker Songs, Cry-Your-Eyes-Out Tracks, and Popular Hits Ranking [2026]
- Makihara Noriyuki’s Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
- Noriyuki Makihara’s Christmas Songs and Popular Hits Ranking [2026]
- Noriyuki Makihara Love Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Noriyuki Makihara Cheer Songs & Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Karaoke Popular Songs Ranking of Noriyuki Makihara [2026]
- Noriyuki Makihara Ballad Songs: Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Noriyuki Makihara’s Broken-Heart Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Noriyuki Makihara’s CM Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- Noriyuki Makihara’s Unrequited Love Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Noriyuki Makihara Birthday Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
Noriyuki Makihara Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki1rank/position

An anthem that reminds you of the importance of being yourself when you feel like you’re losing who you are.
The lyrics, which encourage you to walk the path you believe in without being trapped by others’ gazes, gently push you forward as you dive into a new environment.
Released in June 1991 as a single by Noriyuki Makihara, this classic has sold over 1.67 million copies.
Written as the theme song for the film “No Problems on the Employment Front,” it was also selected as the entrance march for the 1992 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
Its universally known melody continues to be loved across generations.
Take a break from packing—or play it on your first morning in your new home.
As you embark on a new life filled with both excitement and uncertainty, give it a listen.
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki2rank/position

A timeless hit by Noriyuki Makihara that strikes deep in the hearts of those living away from their hometowns.
The lyrics, filled with the resolve to build a new life in a new city to fulfill one’s dreams and a warm message for friends far away, will gently give listeners a push forward.
In fact, this piece wasn’t a single; it was a track included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” released in June 1992.
Later, when Makihara’s self-cover was used as an NTT East Japan commercial song in 2006, it became a beloved standard known to even more people.
It’s an essential springtime cheer song with a warm power that makes the heart feel close even across great distances.
I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki3rank/position

A signature song by Noriyuki Makihara, distinguished by its heartwarming melody that embraces both the ache of heartbreak and a brave front.
It gently portrays memories of a former lover and the nostalgia of everyday life, while the protagonist’s resolve to move forward resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in May 1992, it was chosen as the theme song for the NTV drama “After the Children Are Asleep.” Included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” it became a major hit, ranking 7th on Oricon’s year-end chart.
This piece is a companion for those standing at life’s crossroads.
When you gather with friends for karaoke, its universally relatable lyrics and melody are sure to warm the heart.
THE END OF THE WORLDMakihara Noriyuki4rank/position

Makihara Noriyuki’s “THE END OF THE WORLD” vividly conjures before my eyes two people walking side by side in the rain, caught in a forbidden love.
Among the couples who look ordinary on the city streets, there may be many who carry circumstances like these.
The way they kiss in the dark and whisper “I love you” in small voices suggests the guilt of an affair, yet there’s no sign that they intend to end the relationship; it even feels as if they mean to continue it until the time comes.
What path will they follow from here?
The thing I wanted mostMakihara Noriyuki5rank/position

This is the perfect song for two people dreaming of a happy future.
Noriyuki Makihara’s gentle voice and the piano’s melody warmly embrace the listener’s heart.
Released as a single in July 2004, it also drew attention as the theme song for a Nippon TV drama.
Through its lyrics, it portrays the joy of finding something wonderful, the kindness of giving it to someone special, and the emotional growth of feeling happiness in people’s smiles.
Used as background music when the bride and groom leave the reception, it can create a moment filled with warmth.
You can almost picture the couple taking each other’s hand and setting off toward a happy future together.
Winter is starting.Makihara Noriyuki6rank/position

Makihara Noriyuki—fondly known as “Makkī”—is an indispensable figure when talking about the music scene of the 1990s and a genius singer-songwriter whose name is etched in Japanese music history, leaving behind many timeless songs.
His naturally smooth, unadorned, and expansive voice that reaches listeners’ hearts directly; melodies that are not swayed by passing trends; and lyrics that superbly capture vivid scenes and shifting emotions through simple word choices—his talent is universally acknowledged.
Among his many classics, the 1991 release “Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo” is relatively easy to sing, and the signature high notes typical of Makihara are somewhat restrained, making it a good recommendation for those who struggle with high registers.
Be mindful of the shuffle rhythm, and take care to stay on pitch!
chicken riceHamada Masatoshi / Makihara Noriyuki7rank/position

The lyrics depicting Hitoshi Matsumoto’s memories of a poor childhood touch listeners’ hearts.
It’s a Christmas song released in November 2004 under the name Masatoshi Hamada and Noriyuki Makihara, with Downtown’s Masatoshi Hamada as the lead vocalist and Noriyuki Makihara handling composition and chorus.
Many people were surely moved by these heartwarming lyrics.
The song was chosen as the image song for Fuji TV’s winter event and reached No.
2 on the Oricon weekly chart.
Imbued with the pure kindness of a boy thinking of his parents, this work is perfect for time spent with your loved ones at Christmas.


