Top Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings by Generation: 30s
We’re excited to present the latest top 100 rankings of Japanese music/J-POP for listeners in their 30s, listed in order of most plays!
People in their 30s are often seen as entering adulthood—but what songs are they listening to most?
The playlist is updated weekly.
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 30s [2026]
- [30s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]
- Songs that get people in their 30s pumped up: a roundup of nostalgic tracks that are also great for karaoke
- For men in their 30s: Nostalgic music. Recommended popular songs
- [30s] Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers Ranking [2026]
- [30s] Karaoke Popularity Ranking by Generation [2026]
- Popular Japanese songs among women in their 30s. Recommended masterpieces and classic tracks.
- Great songs recommended for people in their 30s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Band rankings popular among people in their 30s [2026]
- [30s] Easy-to-Sing Karaoke Songs Ranking [2026]
- [For men in their 30s] Must-play karaoke hits that always get the crowd going
- [20s] Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Rankings [By Generation]
- Songs popular among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories.
[30s] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation] (21–30)
Snow BlossomNakajima Mika29rank/position
When it comes to Mika Nakashima’s signature songs, many people probably think of a poignant ballad that portrays love against a wintry backdrop.
Released in 2003, this track beautifully expresses both the joy of time spent with a lover and the looming sense of parting.
It was also used in a commercial for Meiji Seika, has been covered by many artists, and even inspired a film of the same name released in 2019.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you’re looking back on memories with someone special or carrying a bittersweet love in your heart.
At karaoke, singing it with deep emotion is sure to resonate even more strongly.
Best FriendKiroro30rank/position
This song features a warm melody that gently envelops heartfelt gratitude toward a dear friend and lyrics that resonate with honest emotion.
The straightforward words conveying affection for one’s companions harmonize beautifully with the tender piano tones that let feelings flow naturally.
Released by Kiroro in June 2001, it warmed the hearts of many viewers as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Churasan.” Often sung at life’s milestones such as graduation and weddings, it is widely recognized across generations.
When everyone sings it together, it’s sure to fill the room with a happy atmosphere.
[30s] Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Ranking [By Generation] (31–40)
choB-DASH31rank/position
This track is a major single by B-DASH.
It’s meant to be enjoyed by ear, and if you actually look at the lyrics, the English and Japanese are all jumbled.
But that’s B-DASH’s signature—its English-like vibe makes it really cool.
The vocal range is D#3 to A#4, with the highest note being a high A#; it’s on the higher side, but most of the song sits around D4.
Since it’s a short song, it might be fun to just go with the flow and sing it without worrying about the lyrics! Give it a try!
I want to hug you.Mr.Children32rank/position
Mr.Children’s “Dakishimetai” is the second single, released in December 1992.
Created for a friend’s wedding, it features lyrics that convey pure expressions of love.
Reflecting on the moment they met, the song depicts the certainty that the love the two have nurtured is unchanging.
It’s a warm piece that conveys a strong will to accept even the other’s scars and walk forward together.
Beloved as a wedding classic, it’s perfect for conveying gratitude to a loved one and vows of forever.
It’s a masterpiece packed with the charm of Mr.Children’s heartfelt portrayal of pure love.
Shanghai HoneyORANGE RANGE33rank/position
Recently, ORANGE RANGE has enjoyed a cross-generational revival hit and is once again drawing public attention.
They’ve produced many classic songs, and for men in their 30s, every track likely holds special memories.
Among their works, one I especially recommend is Shanghai Honey.
Released in 2003, it was composed on a foundation of the then-trending mixture rock.
It carries a somewhat West Coast vibe, characterized by a laid-back yet distinctly dope feel.
Heart Throbsnobobyknows̟+34rank/position
A track that exquisitely fuses hip-hop and J-pop.
It was released in May 2004 and included on the album “Do You Know?”.
The lyrics depict the small joys of everyday life and the positive power of music, uplifting the hearts of listeners.
The unique worldview created by nobodyknows+’s distinctive lineup of five MCs and one DJ is truly captivating.
From performing on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen to a resurgence via the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE, this song continues to be loved across generations.
It’s an energizing tune that makes both your heart and body want to dance.
Perfect for busy mornings or when you need a change of pace—put it on whenever you want your spirits to soar.
On the hill where the moon is visible tonightB’z35rank/position
It was the theme song for the drama “Beautiful Life: Futari de Ita Hibi,” released in 2000.
Thanks in part to the drama’s success, this song is also widely known and even became a million seller.
B’z are acclaimed not only for their hard-hitting tracks but also for ballads like this.
“Calling,” released in 1997, is also a ballad, though it starts intensely and then suddenly quiets down.
In contrast, this song gradually builds from the beginning, making it easy to listen to naturally without feeling overbearing.