[2026] A roundup of popular Japanese songs currently playing on the radio
Do you usually listen to the radio?
Maybe you hear it as in-store background music, or if you drive for work you might have the car stereo on, and these days you can even listen on smartphone apps.
It may be the age of the internet, but I think radio is still very much a part of our daily lives.
This time, we’re introducing popular Japanese songs that have been getting airplay on recent radio shows!
If you want to check the latest trends or find out which tracks are on power play, this is for you!
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[2026] Summary of Popular Japanese Songs Recently Playing on the Radio (81–90)
Helloyama × bocchiboromaru
In October 2023, this song was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Pokémon.
Created by yama—also known for the hit Haru wo Tsugeru—and singer-songwriter Bocchi Boromaru, it’s a refreshing duet.
With its fast-paced rock sound, the blend of vocals and arrangement feels like it blows away all the lingering haze in your heart.
Its positive message—“No matter what happens, don’t give up; go out and find your dream”—will give you a push forward.
TAIDADAzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.
This track by ZUTOMAYO was selected as the ending theme for the anime Dandadan, based on the popular Weekly Shonen Jump manga, and it’s a song packed with a uniquely distinctive worldview.
It’s included on the mini-album “Koke no Ichinen Kaiba ni Takusu,” released in October 2024.
Characterized by delicate electropop textures and a sense of speed, ACA-ne’s transparent vocals resonate deeply.
The lyrics portray self-defense, emotional suppression, and conflicts with societal rules, conveying the power of words.
It’s a recommended song for when you want to immerse yourself in a mysterious atmosphere or confront your inner emotions.
world standardwāsuta
Wasshoi’s new song carries a message of embracing diverse values while cherishing your true self.
In a rapidly changing world, it conveys a stance of redefining what “standard” means and pursuing their own identity.
Scheduled for release in February 2025, the track celebrates the 10th anniversary of their debut.
The music video leaves a strong impression with the members dancing on sets inspired by locations around the world.
It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to keep moving forward without fearing change.
Stop that nightTeranishi Yūma
This is a song by Yuma Teranishi that portrays a heartrending love.
It’s a ballad reflecting on a special night that has passed, resonating with regret over lost love and a wish to reunite.
Released as a digital single in November 2024, it was chosen as the theme song for the BS Fuji drama “Kazuhiro Teranishi Mystery: SPELL – Revenge of the Green Monkey.” Teranishi himself wrote, composed, and arranged the track, infusing it with a message that respects diverse forms of love.
It’s a recommended listen for those sensing the end of a romance or feeling nostalgic about memories with someone special.
EurekaHoshino Gen
An ambitious work by Gen Hoshino built on the concept of “finding oneself,” featuring a light, memorable melody interwoven with jazz and soul.
It portrays the courage to face the unknown, the small realizations in everyday life, and the strength to overcome hardship—leaving listeners feeling uplifted.
Released in January 2025 as the theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “Madoka, 26, I’m a Resident Doctor!,” the track’s music video—shot by photographer Kotori Kawashima—also captures warm moments with actor Taiga Nakano.
It’s a heartfelt cheer song for those who struggle to be honest with themselves, and for anyone determined to pursue their dreams and goals.
CrystalsYuka
Yuka, a singer-songwriter from Okinawa who drew attention with Hoshizukiyo, the theme song for the drama A Night When the Stars Fall.
This new song, released in October 2023, was selected as the theme song for the drama Even If I Forget You.
Its gently woven sound, imbued with a sense of transparency, and the calm vocals sink deep into the heart.
It’s a love song filled with feelings for someone precious.
It’s the kind of song that will surely resonate in those solitary moments after spending time with someone you love, when your thoughts begin to wander.
A deep and tender love song.
[2026] Summary of Popular Japanese Songs Recently Played on the Radio (91–100)
voiceHitsuji Bungaku
This work features a poignant yet powerful sound centered on acoustic guitar, paired with a hopeful vocal that resonates deeply.
It gently portrays someone listening to their inner voice and striving to move forward, even while confronting the urge to run away.
Written as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.
drama “119 Emergency Call,” airing in January 2025, the track stands as proof of Hitsujibungaku’s exceptional expressive power.
While the band is known for the ending theme of the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen, this marks their first time handling a Monday 9 p.m.
drama theme.
It’s a warm song that quietly stays by the side of those standing at a crossroads in life, trying to face forward even amid uncertainty.