Also great for karaoke with friends! Youthful songs that hype up the Reiwa era
In the past, “youth songs” often brought romantic themes to mind, but in recent years more songs have portrayed youth in a variety of ways.
Of course, youth and romance are inseparable, but there’s been a rise in broader takes on youth songs—tracks about friendship or songs that evoke club activities, for example.
So this time, we’re introducing youth songs released in the Reiwa era.
They’re the kind of tracks that not only lift your spirits just by listening, but also get everyone hyped when sung together at karaoke.
Be sure to check them out!
- Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Youth anthems recommended for Gen Z
- Easy-to-sing youth songs for karaoke: recommended classics and popular hits
- Bright friendship songs recommended for high school students. A collection of hype-up tracks.
- [Clubs, Friendship, Romance] Youth songs middle schoolers should listen to
- An anthem for your 30s. Beloved and popular songs that are both heart-pumping and heart-fluttering.
- Colorful coming-of-age songs perfect for autumn listening
- [For adults too] Youth songs that let you look back on your memories
- [Classic & Latest] Famous and Popular Songs That Sing of Youth
- Friendship songs recommended for high school students: classic and popular J‑pop hits
- Idol Songs from the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Eras: Classic and Latest Hits That Light Up Karaoke
- A roundup of youth-themed songs recommended for high school students
- Recommended for high school students! Fun, crowd-pleasing songs for karaoke
- Emotional friendship songs recommended for high school students
Also great for karaoke with friends! Youth songs that enliven the Reiwa era (41–50)
Mela!Ryokushokushakai
It’s a coming-of-age anthem packed with a burning desire to become a hero.
Born from a pure wish to help the precious friends right in front of you, the song vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they overcome doubt and inner conflict, believe in themselves, and take a step forward.
Included on the June 2020 album “SINGALONG,” it became a signature song for Ryokuoushoku Shakai.
In 2023, it turned into a massive hit, surpassing 300 million streams.
It’s the perfect track for school and culture festivals, giving you the courage to carve out your own story while holding onto your brightest memories.
Melancholy Cherry Blossomsatarayo
Atoyoi’s graduation ballad beautifully portrays the feeling of wishing to reunite someday in the same place, while savoring familiar scenery and bittersweet memories.
It expresses the emotion of how an ordinary spring landscape suddenly feels special as the moment of parting draws near, through a gentle melody and emotionally rich lyrics.
Released in March 2023, the song tenderly accompanies listeners with vocals and sounds that are at times heartrending and at times warm.
It’s a track for those taking a new step with the arrival of spring, and for anyone experiencing a farewell with a dear friend.
FRIENDS!!!imase
Imase’s new song, which portrays long-standing friendship and its changes with a pop sound, is gaining buzz, especially among younger listeners.
It gently conveys the beauty of friendships that don’t fade with age—even amid the awkwardness of a long-awaited reunion—through tender vocals, and stands out with its groovy rhythm and richly arranged instrumentation.
Released in February 2025 as the theme song for the collaborative project “Everyone’s Concert” by the live communication app Pococha and Yamaha Corporation, the track also inspired a special video featuring a performance with over 120 musicians.
It’s a perfect pick for meeting an old friend or reminiscing about cherished memories with someone close.
fluffyHatsuboshi Gakuen
It’s a love song that captures the heart-fluttering feelings of a girl falling in love.
Created by the familiar Hatsuboshi Academy from the mobile game “Gakuen Idolmaster,” it was included on their second single, “Yellow Big Bang!,” released in March 2025.
Kotone Fujita’s refreshing vocals and the catchy melody resonate pleasantly.
It beautifully expresses the sparkle of romance shining through everyday life.
Give it a listen when you want to get in a romantic mood!
AdventureYOASOBI
This is an exhilarating song that portrays an extraordinary adventure.
YOASOBI delivers a message that resonates with our hearts.
The protagonist’s determination and sense of anticipation as they take a step beyond the everyday and seek new scenery are deeply moving.
It brilliantly captures the thrill of riding a theme park attraction and the warmth of spending precious time with friends.
Released in February 2023, the song was chosen as the campaign song for Universal Studios Japan’s “Uni Haru!” event.
It was also featured on the attraction Hollywood Dream – The Ride, making the in-park experience even more captivating.
It’s a track that accompanies those making memories on a trip or about to embark on a new adventure.
Whether you’re at an amusement park or traveling from place to place, it’s sure to bring you a heart-pounding, wonderful experience.
Nothing specialSakurazaka46
A mid-tempo pop number that gently illuminates the unassuming sparkle found in everyday life.
Included on Sakurazaka46’s 11th single “UDAGAWA GENERATION,” released in February 2025, the track drew attention when third-generation member Yuzuki Nakajima was selected as center for the BACKS lineup.
Lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, music by SABURO, and arrangement by APAZZI.
Within its rhythmic beat and catchy melody lies a message of strength to move at one’s own pace even through ordinary days, and a hope for discovering small joys.
It’s a captivating work that lets you feel a tangible sense of fulfillment amid the monotony of daily life.
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE
“Darling” is a song by the rock band Mrs.
GREEN APPLE, released in January 2025.
It was written as the theme song for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.
GREEN APPLE 18 Festival.” Centered on themes of self-identity and love, it reflects the struggles and growth of youth.
Its appeal lies in a rich sound arrangement that incorporates pop-rock elements.
On the program, it was performed together with 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation, creating a major buzz.
It’s an uplifting song that resonates with everyone.