[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 (71–80)
Perfect Day310 (Sato)
This work, released to the world as 310 (Sato)’s debut single, was chosen as an anime opening theme and carries a message about cherishing the small joys found in everyday life.
It features a clear, transparent vocal and a high-energy, fast-paced rock sound, making it a track that resonates with listeners.
Streaming begins in January 2025, with the CD release in March.
It’s recommended not only for anime fans but also for anyone looking to add color to their daily routine.
310’s vocals and the song’s unique world are sure to strike a chord with you.
Beautiful worldAimer
A new song that sings of a hope-filled world is capturing many hearts.
Aimer’s clear, translucent voice gently delivers a wish for a brighter future.
Written as the theme song for a corporate commercial, the track will be released as a single in February 2025.
The lyrics—evoking dreams and memories held close to the heart—leave a strong impression, offering courage to move forward.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone seeking hope through music or wanting to feel more positive.
Each time you listen, you may sense a small light glowing within yourself.
Flying DeityAyase×R-shitei
Hiten, a digital single chosen as the opening theme for the newly remade 2023 TV anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.
Created by R-Shitei—known from Creepy Nuts and Umeda Cipher—and Ayase, active as a Vocaloid producer and a member of YOASOBI, the track’s breakneck call-and-response creates a thrilling ensemble that really amps you up.
The lyrics, which link to the anime’s story, evoke a universal theme: even in doubt, you can only keep moving forward.
It’s a track that lingers with the striking contrast between aggressive rap and lyrical melody.
HyperKroi
A track pre-released from the first single that the genre-blending band Kroi put out in 2023.
Chosen as the opening theme for the anime UNDER NINJA, it crafts a world that truly evokes ninjas.
The heavy, underground-sounding intro leaves a strong impression, and once you’re through it, a light, alluring band sound bursts forth.
The vocals, reminiscent of sing-rap, add to the rhythmic drive—your body can’t help but sway! With clever touches like brass parts and mid-to-late call-and-response sections, it’s a fun and stylish song with inventive development throughout.
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.
Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu
Southern All Stars’ new song is themed around cherry blossoms, a symbol of spring’s arrival.
Set to a breezy sound that evokes the gentle spring wind, it layers hope onto the fragile yet beautiful sakura blossoms.
Released as a digital-only lead single from the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH” on January 1, 2025, the track was announced on the first anniversary of the Noto Peninsula earthquake, a timing believed to reflect sentiments for the disaster-affected areas.
With a finish that conveys the seasonality of spring and the sensibility of Japan, it’s recommended for anyone who wants to feel the arrival of a new season.
Summertime BluesHana Hope
A gem of a summer tune capturing the bittersweet feelings of love has arrived.
Its airy sound and translucent vocals feel effortless, and the lyrics—interweaving Japanese and English—leave a lasting impression.
Released as a digital single in August 2024, it also came with a music video.
Set in Tokyo, the visuals beautifully portray teenage summer moments and are a highlight in their own right.
The song has sparked a strong response, earning power plays on outlets like J-WAVE and MTV.
Evoking an end-of-summer blues, this track is recommended for anyone who wants to savor both the joy and fragility of love.
It’s the perfect song for twilight drives or reminiscing about special moments with someone dear.
Kitchen feat. 9m88Penthouse
Haven’t you been hearing Penthouse’s songs—known for their urban, stylish sound—on the radio lately? This track, featuring Taiwan-born 9m88, stands out for its lyrics that depict the “kitchen” as a space to escape everyday stress.
Released in October 2024, it drew attention as a lead single from their second album, Laundry.
9m88’s gentle vocals blend seamlessly with Penthouse’s sophisticated musicality, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone feeling worn out by busy days or wanting to unwind at a leisurely pace.
CharadeSuperfly
A gem of a suite-like number that contrasts emotion and essence.
Released by Superfly in August 2024, this song serves as the theme for the NTV drama “Maruhi no Mitsuko-san.” The vocals, combining strength and delicacy, make the work’s worldview all the more compelling.
By depicting the divide between surface and interior, it expresses the complexity of human relationships.
Highlights include the striking first half with its piano-and-strings pairing and the chorus’s tight rhythmic contrast.
When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, listening to this track may give you the courage to face yourself.