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

Bunny GirlAKASAKI

[AKASAKI] Bunny Girl (Lyric Video)

This is a captivating track with lyrics that deeply resonate with young listeners and a pleasant melody.

Set against a nighttime backdrop, it portrays the push-and-pull and inner conflicts of romance, creating a story that strikes a chord with the audience.

AKASAKI’s clear, translucent vocals further enhance the world of the lyrics.

Released in October 2024, the song became a major topic on social media and captured many hearts.

It’s highly recommended for those who want to savor both the sweetness and bitterness of love, or for anyone looking for the perfect companion to a nighttime drive.

TATTOO (feat. Akina Nakamori)Katori Shingo

Shingo Katori “TATTOO (feat. Akina Nakamori)” Official Audio

Singing about the longing for true passion and love amid urban loneliness and facades, this work captivates with its heartfelt message.

The collaboration between Shingo Katori and Akina Nakamori is truly a dream pairing, and SOIL&”PIMP”SESSIONS’ jazz- and funk-infused arrangement elevates the track to a new dimension.

Standing out as a track on the album “Circus Funk,” this piece is recommended for anyone who wants to reclaim their emotions and embrace change.

Since its release in November 2024, it has been loved by many listeners.

Wind GodVaundy

Wind God / Vaundy (Theme song for TBS Friday drama “The Lion’s Hideout”) / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

Written specifically as the theme song for a TBS drama, this track draws inspiration from the Japanese mythological god who governs the wind.

Its lyrics vividly depict the conflict between reason and emotion, and the growth that comes from overcoming life’s trials.

Released digitally on October 12, 2024, it garnered attention alongside the drama’s broadcast.

Blending Vaundy’s signature electronic elements with a dynamic sound, the song fuses rock and electronica.

It resonates especially when you want to reflect on family and sibling bonds, or when you find yourself at a crossroads in life.

Otonoke – Opening Theme to DANDADANCreepy Nuts

Creepy Nuts – Otonoke [Official MV] [Dandadan Opening]

Introducing a track that’s creating major buzz as the opening theme for the TV anime “Dandadan”! Crafted by Creepy Nuts, this song uniquely fuses the worlds of music and the occult.

Set to a Jersey club beat, DJ Matsunaga’s delicate production meshes perfectly with R-Shitei’s powerful rap.

Released on October 4, 2024, the track has gotten off to a strong start on the download charts.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to dive into a mysterious worldview—where music clings to you like a spirit that takes hold of your heart.

SunYorushika

Yorushika – Sun (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Delivered by Yorushika, this piece is a poetic song that conveys the transience and cycle of life through the image of butterfly wings.

It paints grand imagery—like draining the sands of a desert dune or the vastness of the sea—prompting deep reflection on the beauty of nature and one’s own existence.

Written as the theme song for the film “Shoutai,” released in November 2024, the track faithfully captures the movie’s worldview in music.

Blending Yorushika’s distinctive musicality with poetic lyrics, this song is recommended for moments when you want to face yourself in nature or immerse yourself in words that resonate with the heart.

Falling (feat. Taka)JINTAKA

네게 닿을 때까지 (feat. Taka)

The collaboration track by BTS’s Jin and ONE OK ROCK’s Taka is making waves.

It delicately portrays the ache of unrequited love and the intensity of longing, with Jin’s and Taka’s distinctive vocals blending perfectly.

Released in November 2024, this song is a new version of a track included on Jin’s solo album “Happy.” Their tender, enveloping vocals capture the subtle emotions of someone in love, sure to tug at your heart.

It’s a perfect song not only for those troubled by love, but for anyone who wants to cherish the feeling of caring for someone.

With lyrics that resonate and a beautiful melody, you’ll find yourself wanting to listen again and again.

AzaleaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Azalea × “The Continuation of Goodbye” Special MV

This is a song that deeply resonates with the heart, weaving a tale of love by Kenshi Yonezu.

Written as the theme for a drama, it delicately portrays lost love and new encounters.

The imagery—likening unchanging feelings and past memories to a grafted flower or a worn-out shirt—is particularly striking.

Released in November 2024, the track was created for the Netflix series “The Rest of Goodbye.” It sings of the turmoil of meeting someone new while carrying the sorrow of losing a lover.

I believe it’s a song that offers comfort to those who have lost someone precious or are struggling with complex relationships.