[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 Played on the Radio (41–50)
RewriteHakubi
“Rewrite” has been generating buzz after being selected for NACK5’s Power Play in March 2023 and receiving its first airplay on SONAR MUSIC.
The song, written by the three-piece rock band Hakubi as the ending theme for the anime The Tale of Outcasts, gently conveys the feeling of loneliness and solitude at night.
However, the message embedded in the lyrics is positive, making it a likely candidate to serve as an uplifting, supportive song.
PolaroidShin-Tōkyō
The song that took the No.
1 spot on SAISON CARD TOKIO HOT 100 is Polaroid.
It’s been getting a lot of airplay on other radio programs too, so many of you have probably heard it.
It’s a piano pop song released in 2023 by the rock band New Tokyo.
While it’s grounded in the timbre of the piano, the arrangement lets you enjoy changes such as the drums growing more intense partway through.
The lyrics, which liken the “Polaroid” in the title to memories, are also beautiful.
ColumbusMrs. GREEN APPLE
It’s a memorable track with an exhilarating melody and lyrics themed around history.
It’s a song by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE, released digitally in June 2024.
It drew attention in many ways, and the quality of the track truly stands out.
Motoki Omori’s soaring vocals and the lyrics, which value individuality and curiosity, really resonate.
It’s recommended when you want a message to help you live positively, or if you like upbeat pop sounds.
Be sure to give this work—a packed showcase of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s new challenges—a listen.
daybreakFujihara Sakura
Sakura Fujiwara is an artist whose deep, smoky voice, strong songwriting, and ever-evolving music production are truly captivating.
Released digitally in October 2023, this track was written as an insert song for “Seicho: ‘Haraenai’ ni wa Wake ga Aru” (There’s a Reason They Can’t Pay).
You’re enveloped by the soft, comfortable tempo—particularly the striking interplay between piano and drums—and Fujiwara’s vocals.
The lyrics feel like listening to your inner voice or seeking someone who will listen, making it a song that seeps in when you’re tired.
With a gradually brightening development, this slow number eases the heart.
Time ParadoxVaundy
Released in January 2024 as the theme song for the film Doraemon: Nobita’s Earth Symphony, this track beautifully blends Vaundy’s unique sensibility with the movie’s themes.
The lyrics, which portray hope for the future and the value of encounters, really resonate.
With its positive message and warm wishes, the song gently wraps the listener’s heart.
It’s said that Vaundy himself also handled the jacket design.
When you feel uncertain about the future or want to spend time with someone special, this is a song that will be there for you.
SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHTXG
A retro garage rhythm stirs up nostalgia in this dance-worthy track.
Showcasing the unique personalities of XG’s seven members, it blends a ‘90s vibe with contemporary production to stunning effect.
Released in July 2024, the song is generating major buzz as the lead single from XG’s second mini-album.
With colorful, pop styling to match, it’s guaranteed to hype up any event or festival.
Packed with a message about valuing your true self, it’s an energizing anthem—perfect for your next drive.
I like youChilli Beans.
Chilli Beans.
are a three-piece rock band whose Western-influenced songwriting and performances, paired with an exquisitely cute vibe, have captivated fans.
Their digital single “I like you,” released on October 11, 2023, was selected as the theme song for the TV drama “Toki o Kakeru na, Koibitotachi” (Don’t Time-Travel, Lovers).
Its message—embracing everything about the person you love—conveys a fragile yet powerful resolve that affirms one’s own feelings.
With its airy melodies and arrangements, it’s a simple yet compelling number that feels wonderfully comfortable.
Like an angel.rikon densetsu
A song by Rikon Densetsu themed around a faint, emotional summer romance.
It features a rhythmic, comfortable sound with city pop elements that evoke the freedom of summer and the thrill of love.
Released on August 21, 2024, the track was first unveiled during the band’s first-ever solo tour in July.
The jacket artwork features an illustration by popular illustrator Hisashi Eguchi, and the music video stars Yui Okamoto and Yuto Hirai.
The video, depicting the fleeting nature of summer love, further enriches the song’s world.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to rekindle nostalgic summer memories.
After the LightKamishiraishi Mone
Soak yourself in the chill vibes and let them gently wash over you! This track by Mone Kamishiraishi—who’s also active as an actress—was released in October 2023.
It features a warm, band-driven sound, thanks to Kengo Kakudate of Yogee New Waves.
The comforting textures and vocals slowly seep into your ears and heart.
The lyrics feel like they wrap the loneliness right before sleep in a blanket of kindness.
It’s a wonderful city pop tune that will make you look forward to tomorrow morning.
waxing; filling up; becoming full; growing (e.g., the moon growing fuller)Fuji Kaze
This piece was written as the theme song for the film “April, You Are My Lady.” It’s a work marked by Fujii Kaze’s gently enveloping vocals and memorable piano melodies.
The lyrics, which sing of the transience of life and the depth of love, resonate deeply.
Released digitally in March 2024, it also has an accompanying music video directed by Tomokazu Yamada, which visualizes Fujii Kaze’s unique worldview.
It’s a song packed with new charms from the ever-evolving Fujii Kaze.
We especially recommend it to those who have experienced parting with someone dear or embarking on new encounters.