Japanese Rock Music Popularity Rankings [2026]

together; along with; bothWANIMA43rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

This work, released in 2016 by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto Prefecture, embraces the various emotions and experiences of youth in a positive light and carries a message that leads listeners toward a forward-looking mindset.

Chosen in 2017 as the theme song for a project focused on recovery from the Kumamoto earthquake, it is filled with deep affection for and support of their hometown.

Included on the album “Juice Up!!,” the song was recorded just before the earthquake and conveys the importance of holding on to hope even in difficult circumstances.

With WANIMA’s powerful vocals and warm lyrics, it has been loved by many as a song that stands by those seeking encouragement at different moments in life, offering courage and hope.

Red tambourineBLANKEY JET CITY44rank/position

Akai Tambourine (Live At Yokohama Arena / July 8, 2000)

A quintessential 90s love song that symbolically captures pure feelings and passion for the one you love.

Released by BLANKEY JET CITY in January 1998, this track weaves a unique tapestry of metaphors to explore what love truly is.

The protagonist wishes to gift a shooting star to their beloved, and the way their heart quivers in everyday, ordinary moments is vividly portrayed, resonating with the bittersweetness of love that anyone can relate to.

Included on the album “Romeo no Shinzō” (Heart of Romeo) and used as the opening theme for TV Asahi’s “Sunday Jungle,” the song reached No.

11 on the Oricon Singles Chart for the week.

It’s a heartwarming piece with melodies and lyrics perfect for healing the wounds of heartbreak or reaffirming feelings for someone special.

GLORIAZIGGY45rank/position

ZIGGY「GLORIA」

Some of you may have heard their songs in variety shows or commercials from the ’90s.

If you like straightforward rock ’n’ roll or melodic kayōkyoku-style pop, I recommend “GLORIA.” It was released by the rock band ZIGGY in 1998 and was used as the theme song for the drama Dō-kyū-sei (Classmates).

The performance delivers an intense rock sound, while the lyrics and melody evoke the feel of kayōkyoku.

It’s said that vocalist Juichi Morishige’s fondness for kayōkyoku during his youth also had an influence.

If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic melody that will get you pumped, give it a listen.

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mutō

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SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION46rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Soranin'

This song portrays the loss and rebirth of youth.

Released by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION in March 2010, it was written as the main theme for a film based on Inio Asano’s manga.

The lyrics depict the pain of parting and a forward-looking new beginning, making it a moving piece that resonates with many listeners.

It was also used as the ending theme for the film Solanin, which features a scene where the lead actors, Aoi Miyazaki and Kengo Kora, perform the song.

It’s highly recommended for those who feel the uncertainty and bittersweetness of their youthful days.

ALONEB’z47rank/position

B’z / ALONE

“Precisely because you feel lonely, you want to see someone.” This is a high-energy rock ballad that sings about deep love.

No introduction needed—it’s a work by the national rock duo B’z, released in 1991 as their ninth single.

It drew attention as the theme song for the drama “Hotel Woman.” From the lyrics, you can picture the scene of watching the sun set while thinking of the one you love.

So, by all means, try listening to it outside at dusk.

You’ll be able to savor the song’s world even more.

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Araki Jakkan

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Crimson-colored sunsetFujifaburikku48rank/position

Fujifabric – Akane-Colored Sunset

When I listen to Fujifabric’s song Akane-iro no Yūhi (Crimson Sunset), I can’t help but picture an autumn evening sky.

Released in November 2005, the track was also used as the ending theme for the TV Kanagawa program saku saku.

Beyond vocalist Masahiko Shimura’s soft, slightly nasal tone that leaves a strong impression, the rounded sound of each instrument and the many emotion-stirring touches throughout the song create a wonderful atmosphere.

It’s a song I want to listen to in autumn while thinking of someone dear.

HEAVEN’S DRIVEL’Arc〜en〜Ciel49rank/position

L’Arc~en~Ciel – Heaven’s Drive

A hit song by the hugely popular rock band L’Arc~en~Ciel.

It was rare until then for such a cool rock sound to become a hit.

It’s no exaggeration to say that L’Arc~en~Ciel helped push rock, which had been minor, into the mainstream.