Japanese Rock Music Popularity Rankings [2026]

GibbsShiina Ringo64rank/position

Shiina Ringo – Gibbs

Since her debut, Ringo Sheena has continually brought a fresh breeze to the rock scene.

This track, released as an advance single from the album “Shōso Strip,” is notable for its lyrics that use distinctive numerical notation and its striking sound where piano and guitar intertwine.

It’s a masterpiece that vividly portrays the feelings of a woman who seeks a deep bond with her lover while feeling uneasy about the passage of time.

Covered by many artists across eras, it continues to captivate music fans.

It’s a stirring song perfect for a spring night, letting you savor the joy and bittersweetness of love at the same time.

Snow SmileBUMP OF CHICKEN65rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN "Snow Smile"

A heartwarming love story portrayed through the chill of winter.

Released by BUMP OF CHICKEN in December 2002, this song gently yet poignantly depicts a couple’s relationship against a snowy backdrop.

It uses the cold of winter as a pretext for the two to draw closer, expressing their bond through differences in stride and the rhythm of their footsteps.

The delicate emotions woven into the winter scenery resonate quietly with listeners.

Since its release, it has remained a beloved staple of the winter season.

It’s a recommended track when you want to etch the bittersweetness of love and winter landscapes into your heart, or when you feel like immersing yourself in memories with someone special.

Love SongGO!GO!718866rank/position

GO!GO!7188 [Koi no Uta] with low-quality PV

Delicately portraying the poignant emotions of unrequited love, this song was released in 2000 as GO!GO!7188’s third single.

Lyrics by Akko express a straightforward devotion to a loved one and the pure feeling of happiness that comes simply from being with that person.

Composed by Yuu, the song’s structure and melody resonate deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which capture both the sorrow and beauty of unrequited love, have struck a chord with many and continue to be cherished across generations.

The profound affection for the beloved is rendered with a distinctive poetic touch, which is likely what captivates listeners’ hearts.

Driver’s HighL’Arc〜en〜Ciel67rank/position

L’Arc en Ciel driver’s high + pretty girl LIVE L’ArCASINO

L’Arc~en~Ciel’s 17th single, released in 1999.

It’s also well known as the theme song for the TV anime GTO.

It’s the kind of song you want to listen to when you’re heading out by car—more like a trip or a drive.

I’d love to hear it under a clear blue sky on a sunny day!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

KiLLiNG MESiM68rank/position

SiM – KiLLiNG ME (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A hard-hitting track released from SEEDS OF HOPE, the album by SiM—a melodic loud rock band from Kanagawa—where chunky guitar riffs fuse with reggae rhythms.

Brimming with a heavy sound and explosive energy, it has continued to captivate fans as a live staple since its October 2011 release.

Striking a deft balance between heaviness and catchiness, the song has crossed genre boundaries, even being covered in the mixed-media project D4DJ.

It’s recommended not only for punk and metal enthusiasts but also for listeners new to intense music, as a perfect entry point to SiM’s uniquely original sound.

A third of pure-hearted feelingsSIAM SHADE69rank/position

[SIAM SHADE] A Third of Pure, Innocent Emotions [Tried Drumming (By the Original Member)]

For those who love anison and melodious band sounds, I recommend “1/3 no Junjō na Kanjō.” It was released by the rock band SIAM SHADE, which raced through the ’90s, and was used as the ending theme for the anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.

Its melody and lyrics make everyone want to sing along, and they’re loved across generations.

The balance between the guitar riffs and the rhythm section is excellent, making it a track you’ll want to listen to over and over.

It’s one of their signature songs, with the notable episode that it was selected from over a hundred shelved demo tapes.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

BelieveSOPHIA70rank/position

SOPHIA / Believe（Official Music Video）

A song marked by its beautiful melody and crystal-clear vocals.

It was released in November 1996 as SOPHIA’s third single.

The lyrics were written by vocalist Mitsuru Matsuoka, with music composed by guitarist Kazutaka Toyoda.

The lyrics, which express the desire to protect someone dear, resonate deeply.

The combination of a melodious rock sound and emotional words leaves a strong impression.

Although it had no tie-ins, it is widely known as one of SOPHIA’s signature songs.

A popular track that is frequently performed live, it’s perfect for anyone carrying feelings for someone special.

This heartwarming love song reminds us of the importance of holding on to hope even in difficult times.