Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Among High School Boys [2026]

You know what,are-kun &『yuika’}81rank/position

You know. / Are-kun & “Yuika” [MV]

A refreshing melody that evokes the feeling of spring and lyrics that capture the innocence of first love make a lasting impression! This is a duet song by Are-kun and Yuika.

Created solely through exchanges on social media, the track was born from a fateful encounter where they met in person for the first time at the recording session.

It vividly portrays the frustrating emotions of two people who have feelings for each other but can’t quite express them honestly.

Released in April 2022, the song gained attention for its youthfully nostalgic music video, in which a high school boy and girl share their feelings as cherry blossoms flutter around them.

It’s recommended not only for those experiencing unrequited love, but also for anyone looking to start a new romance with the arrival of spring.

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya82rank/position

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani

Tatsuya Kitani is a singer-songwriter who also makes his presence felt as a bassist, supporting acts like sajou no hana and Yorushika.

The title track of his third EP, Ao no Sumika (Where Our Blue Is), was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death.

Though the song features many challenging elements—such as wide interval leaps using falsetto—mastering it is sure to draw attention.

With lyrics depicting a friendship gradually growing distant and a dramatic ensemble that stirs the heart, it’s a high-energy rock tune brimming with momentum.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

I can’t forget it.Sakanakushon83rank/position

Sakanaction / Wasurerarenai no -Music Video-

The rock band Sakanaction.

Their songs are all strikingly quirky, but this track, “Wasurerarenaino,” drew attention for its 80s-style visuals and costumes.

Still, putting that aside, isn’t it simply an incredibly danceable song you can move your body to and enjoy? Sakanaction, master craftsmen of Japanese music—be sure to give them a listen.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Murakami Shinpei

Report a problem

Blue BenchSasuke84rank/position

Blue Bench / Sasuke

A signature love number by a male folk duo.

Before heading to a school reunion, the singer recalls someone he used to like and looks back on a bittersweet romance.

“Back then I just threw my feelings at her and couldn’t really respect her.

I wish I’d been a little more honest.” You can almost hear thoughts like that in the song.

It can be taken as a heartbreak song, but it also resonates with the painful feelings of unrequited love.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

en

Report a problem

KanadeSukima Suichi85rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

A signature, hugely popular ballad by Sukima Switch.

Released in June 2004, this song has been featured widely in the media, including as an insert song for the film “Rough” and as the theme for the third night of the drama series “Sotsu Uta.” Centered on themes of parting, growth, and bonds, it gently sings of feelings for a lover far away.

It’s a tender ballad that you can sing with heart, and its broad popularity makes it especially approachable to perform.

Highly recommended for those who’ve experienced a breakup with someone they love or who want to convey their feelings to someone important.