[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!
- [April 2026] Trending songs: A roundup of the hottest, viral tracks right now
- Popular Japanese music. Latest rankings [2026]
- [2026] Fast-Rising Music: A Roundup of Trending Songs
- [2026] Popular Songs Among Today’s Youth [J-Pop]
- [2026] Must-listen! This Year's Best Japanese Hit Songs
- [April 2026] The latest releases in Japanese music. Check out the hottest new tracks!
- [2026] Latest Popular and Recommended Japanese Rock Songs
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- [Power Songs] The best bright, energizing tracks that lift your spirits!
- A gentle song. A classic that calms the heart. A song that makes you feel kind.
- [2026] Latest and Noteworthy J-Pop R&B Tracks
- RAY’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- A nostalgic song—a timeless classic that somehow feels familiar and touches the heart.
[2026] Summary of Popular Japanese Songs Recently Played on the Radio (121–130)
skirtaiko
A perfect song for the end of summer, where wistfulness and freshness coexist.
The lyrics, illuminated by Aiko’s delicate emotional expression, portray lost love and the pain of parting.
They gently weave the protagonist’s attempt to break free from past memories, leaving behind a hollow feeling.
Released as a single in May 2024 and included on the album “Zanshin Zansho,” it was also featured on a popular FM802 program, drawing attention.
This work, which showcases Aiko’s unique perspective, resonates with the small emotions of everyday life.
Recommended for those who want to feel both the bittersweetness of summer’s end and the anticipation of a new season.
Mutual loveaiko
The more you think about it, the more your feelings deepen—this song is filled with a bittersweet emotion.
It’s aiko’s 45th single, released in May 2024.
Chosen as the theme song for the animated film “Detective Conan: The Million-dollar Pentagram,” it conveys one-sided feelings and a sense of distance through aiko’s characteristically delicate vocals.
It’s a carefully crafted work that captures the nuances of love and resonates with listeners’ hearts.
I especially recommend it to those troubled by love or carrying feelings for someone special.
This heartwarming number evokes the bond between two people in love.
feelin’muque
A track by the four-piece band muque packed with a sense of speed and exhilaration.
It features a sound where a pop four-on-the-floor rhythm blends with the warmth of live instruments.
The lyrics depict a surge of emotion, expressing the freedom of dancing and singing away from everyday stress, and emphasize the importance of letting yourself have pure fun.
Included on the album “Dungeon,” released in October 2024, the song also drew attention for its music video that uses 3D technology.
It was selected for power play on FM radio stations and is rapidly gaining traction.
A recommended track for anyone looking for a dose of positive energy.
Jealousy toward catsaimyon
The title track of Aimyon’s fifth album, “Neko ni Jealousy,” was released in September 2024.
Featuring a performance that blends tension and ease to perfection, the lyrics and melody strikingly portray down-to-earth emotions in a straightforward way.
It projects comparisons with others and self-loathing onto the familiar figure of a “cat,” expressing the anxieties and jealousy we feel in everyday life.
Its breezy sound and Aimyon’s signature mix of humor and irony meld seamlessly, resonating with listeners.
It’s a perfect song for anyone grappling with living life at their own pace.
[2026] Summary of Popular Japanese Songs Recently Played on the Radio (131–140)
MERRY GO ROUNDEngami
ENJIN is a boys group formed from a stage project.
Have you checked out their song “MERRY GO ROUND”? It’s a perfect dance number for when you want to lift your spirits.
In fact, it was even selected as FM Osaka’s Power Play for March 2023.
The song also features sharp, dynamic choreography, so I recommend taking this opportunity to watch the music video as well.
You might get a different impression compared to hearing it on the radio.
globeYonezu Kenshi
Singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu continues to dominate the J-pop scene with his original worldview and modern musical sensibilities.
His 14th single, “Spinning Globe,” written as the theme song for the Studio Ghibli film The Boy and the Heron, links beautifully with its title through delicate piano tones and expansive, dreamlike strings.
The lyrics, which depict the preciousness of living through time as we move forward despite repeated meetings and partings, are likely to prompt many listeners to reflect on their own lives.
It’s an emotional number, with a voice that conveys strength within gentleness and shakes the heart.
Swampiri
A track that fuses a deep, distinctive vocal with a fresh musical direction.
Written specifically as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Sky Castle,” it features a striking intro of strings and distorted guitar.
While preserving iri’s signature style, it represents a new challenge that aligns with the drama’s worldview.
Released on August 14, 2024, it was accompanied by a collaborative video tied to the show.
The lyrics, which convey tension and complex human relationships, are sure to leave a deep impression on listeners.
It’s a song infused with the energy of human desire and inner conflict, and the determination to protect what matters most.
Highly recommended to listen to while watching the drama.