Lovely hit song

[2026] A roundup of popular Japanese songs currently playing on the radio

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

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!

[2026] Summary of Popular Japanese Songs Recently Played on the Radio (111–120)

VoyagerRiakushon za Butta

Reaction The Butta – Voyager (Music Video) / Reaction The Butta – Voyager

VoyagerRiakushon za Butta

If you’re a TBS Radio listener, you’ve probably heard the song “Voyager” at least once.

That’s because it was chosen as the station’s Monthly Pick for March 2023.

The track is by Reaction The Butta, a rock band also known for their work as radio personalities.

Originally written for a soccer program, the song conveys the importance of supporting one another.

I hope you’ll listen to it not just in the context of soccer, but by imagining various situations where people connect.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

cinemaaiko

cinema

cinemaaiko

Aiko’s song is a powerful work that depicts life’s loneliness, love, and hope for the future.

The lyrics unfold like a film, brilliantly expressing the emotional ups and downs that lurk in everyday life.

Released in January 2025, the track also drew attention as the theme song for the drama “Ensemble.” It’s included on Aiko’s 16th album, “Zanshin Zansho,” and has become a hot topic among fans.

With lyrics that resonate and a familiar, approachable melody, I think it’s a song that gently embraces those struggling with love and life.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

PlazmaYonezu Kenshi

Plazma

PlazmaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu’s songs, woven from powerful beats and emotional melodies, draw listeners in with lyrics that center on challenge and hope.

Released in January 2025 as the theme song for the feature film Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-, the track blends seamlessly with the Gundam universe.

Its lyrics, which portray bonds and solidarity amid conflict while evoking the energy to expand one’s inner strength and potential, are especially striking.

Paired with a grand sound, it’s a highly recommended song for those who want to feel hope for the future or need the courage to face hardships!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

As you areCentipede & Rhyme Man

Mukasetsu & Inman – As You Are (Prod. @thekontrabandz)

As you are 百足 & 韻マン

Sparked by social media buzz, Mukade has gained strong support from teens.

His second single, created in collaboration with rapper Inman, is “Kimi no Mama.” In this track, the two rap about their musical styles and ways of life.

Its down-to-earth message resonates with many listeners.

If you’ve heard it on the radio and were curious, take this chance to give it a careful listen.

And if you like it, be sure to check out their previous collaborative tracks as well.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

BONNumber_i

Number_i – BON (Official Music Video)

BONNumber_i

An ambitious work where tradition and innovation blend exquisitely.

Number_i’s new track deftly weaves Japanese elements inspired by bonsai with hip-hop beats, showcasing a strikingly fresh approach.

It’s a song where delicate beauty and powerful energy are perfectly balanced.

The lyrics, imbued with a sense of oneness with nature and introspective themes, are also memorable.

Featured on the mini-album “No.O -ring-,” released in May 2024, the track garnered significant attention.

With the timbre of traditional Japanese instruments intersecting with contemporary rhythms, it offers a compelling listen as music for a new era.

You’re sure to get fully immersed in its unique sonic world!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem