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 (121–130)

twilightSangatsu no Phantasia

Mitsukiyo no Fantasia “Hakumei”

twilightSangatsu no Phantasia

A heart-stirring song steeped in the bittersweetness of youth.

Released in January 2024, this work by Sangatsu no Phantasia serves as the theme song for Mia’s newly written novel, “Reaching for the Midwinter Twilight.” Its clear, airy vocals and unforgettable melody line leave a strong impression.

The lyrics overlay the image of “twilight,” heralding the beginning of a world before the darkness.

It conveys the courage to affirm oneself and face difficulties, offering gentle companionship to the heart.

It might be perfect for those feeling anxious before a new chapter in life.

It’s the kind of captivating track that would make you stop and listen if it came on the radio.

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ElfAdo

[Ado] Elf

ElfAdo

This song, painted with a fairy-like, fantastical worldview, centers on the strength and determination to move forward.

Through the loneliness of elves—mythical beings—and the eternity of life, it conveys universal messages about farewells and rebirth on life’s journey, as well as self-affirmation.

Ado’s powerful vocals and delicate expressiveness further elevate the song’s world.

Chosen as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Who Watched the Peacock’s Dance?” which began in January 2025, it beautifully mirrors the emotions of the protagonist played by Suzu Hirose.

It’s a track that gives you courage when you’re on the verge of losing your way or about to take a new step.

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whipB’z

B’z / Whip

whipB'z

This work stands out with its powerful guitar riffs and energetic vocals.

It’s a hard rock number quintessentially B’z, portraying a person who relentlessly pushes themselves.

You can feel from the lyrics the act of driving oneself forward, trying to surpass one’s limits.

Released as a digital single in January 2025, it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Digital Single Ranking.

It was also written as the theme song for the ABEMA original drama “Informer: Beasts Living in the Dark.” It’s a recommended track for those who tend to overwork themselves or want a song to fire them up.

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YOU GOTTA RUNL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc-en-Ciel「YOU GOTTA RUN」-Music Clip-

YOU GOTTA RUNL'Arc〜en〜Ciel

A heart-stirring track has arrived! This new song by L’Arc~en~Ciel is an up-tempo rock number themed around challenge and self-transcendence.

Its musicality fuses a catchy melody with a hard-edged sound that will set listeners’ hearts racing.

It’s also used as the opening theme for the anime BEYBLADE X, and its lyrics—mirroring the protagonists’ growth—are sure to encourage children’s dreams and hopes.

Scheduled for release in January 2025, this song delivers a powerful message that will push people forward as they face new challenges.

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DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s latest work is a song that powerfully portrays the struggles of youth.

It sings about the journey to find your true self and resonates deeply with listeners.

Written as the theme song for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18 Festival,” it was released digitally in January 2025.

The performance, featuring a collaboration with as many as 1,000 18-year-olds, generated major buzz.

It’s a track we especially recommend to those in the midst of self-discovery or feeling crushed by others’ expectations—you’re sure to find courage in it!

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