[For people in their 30s] Stylish Japanese songs you’ll want to listen to as an adult
Are there any of you who’ve found your musical tastes changing in your thirties compared to when you were younger? High-energy tracks are great, but sometimes you want to take your time with works infused with poise and sensitivity, right? In this article, we’ll introduce stylish music ranging from melodies with a sophisticated, urban flair to songs that exude a calm, mature mood.
We’ve picked selections from various eras and across a wide range of genres.
You’re sure to find a track that resonates with your sensibilities.
- Great songs recommended for people in their 30s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Popular Japanese songs among women in their 30s. Recommended masterpieces and classic tracks.
- Stylish tracks that resonate with people in their twenties. A collection of songs with refined, comfortable sound.
- For men in their 30s: Nostalgic music. Recommended popular songs
- Songs for Women in Their 30s to Sing: A Collection from the 90s to 00s
- Top Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings by Generation: 30s
- A roundup of songs for men in their 30s to sing [’90s–’00s tracks]
- Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 30s: timeless Japanese hits that touch the heart
- Songs that are popular with men in their 30s. Flirty songs that appeal to men.
- Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 30s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
- Recommended wedding songs for people in their 30s: moving classics and popular picks
- Recommended cheer-up songs for people in their 30s: classic and popular Japanese hits
- Recommended songs for a drive (for people in their 30s)
[For people in their 30s] Stylish Japanese songs you’ll want to listen to as an adult (1–10)
ODDTAXIsukaato to PUNPEE
It’s a work with a striking, slightly melancholy atmosphere, like gazing absently at a cityscape at night.
Released in 2021, this song was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Odd Taxi.
The melody woven by Wataru Sawabe, who continues to reinvent pop traditions, blends beautifully with the rap of PUNPEE, an artist who has expanded the realm of Japanese hip-hop, resulting in a highly refined piece.
The worldview of the lyrics—depicting the noise lurking in everyday life and the subtle dissonance you suddenly feel amid familiar scenery—resonates all the more deeply now, precisely because of the many experiences we’ve accumulated.
It’s a profound track, perfect for nights when you want to step away from the city’s clamor and sink into contemplation.
Mr. Monster feat. AimyonHirai Ken
This is a lavish collaborative number by Ken Hirai, a leading figure in the J-POP scene, and Aimyon, who can now be called an icon of the times.
Written by Ken Hirai with Aimyon in mind, the song portrays a hopeless unrequited love—knowing it won’t be rewarded yet still being irresistibly drawn in.
The inescapable sorrow of it all is set to a sophisticated, urbane pop sound.
Released in March 2020, it was also included on the album “Anata ni Naritakatta” (“I Wanted to Be You”).
If you’re struggling with a futile love, this song might resonate perfectly.
sparkleFuji Kaze
Many of you might know it as the song from Honda’s VEZEL commercial! This track, released in May 2021 by Kaze Fujii—a singer-songwriter proudly representing Okayama—features an irresistibly light beat and an exhilarating melody.
It carries a coolness that brushes off life’s difficulties with ease, while underneath flows a warmth that cherishes love.
The message—believing in your own shine after many experiences and moving toward the future together with someone precious—is sure to resonate.
Put it on first thing in the morning or during a weekend drive when you want a reset, and you’ll feel your everyday life suddenly light up.
[For people in their 30s] Stylish Japanese songs you’ve come to want to listen to as an adult (11–20)
hindsightRIP SLYME
RIP SLYME is a five-member hip-hop group made up of four MCs and one DJ.
This work, which marks their 25th anniversary year, is sure to resonate especially with those who’ve learned to enjoy music differently than they did in their youth.
Riding a comfortable mid-tempo beat, the members trade verses like they’re chatting about their own lives.
Beneath the lighthearted banter runs a sense of gratitude for the past and a gaze toward the future.
The contrast between the rapid-fire raps and the gently affecting, melodic hook is addictive.
Put it on while driving with old friends, and you’ll surely find yourselves reminiscing in no time!
Stand by me, Stand by you.Hirai Dai
It’s a love song by Dai Hirai about a fateful encounter.
The track portrays the miracle and gratitude of meeting the one person in a vast world and walking through life together.
It gently sings of irreplaceable love blossoming in everyday calm, carried by a soothing acoustic sound.
Released in September 2020, the song is included on the album “Life Goes On” and gained attention as the theme for the Mynavi Wedding commercial.
It’s a piece that reminds you of the blessing of having a partner by your side.
beautiful worldSPECIAL OTHERS
SPECIAL OTHERS have established a solid reputation as an instrumental band.
How about “beautiful world,” included on their acclaimed 2012 album Have a Nice Day? Beginning with silence, sounds gradually layer upon one another, eventually unfolding into a grand soundscape that seems to guide the listener into another world.
When you want to step away from the busyness of everyday life, I think this track can help you do just that.
dancerVaundy
This track is also known for being praised by music producer Junji Ishiwatari as an example of the “aesthetics of subtraction.” An ensemble built from the bare minimum—rhythm, bass, and vocals—creates a sophisticated mood.
The lyrics capture the aching feeling of being unable to forget a past love and wishing for a second chance.
The melody line, as if bottling up frustration, leaves a strong impression.
Released in November 2021, it was later included on the album ‘replica.’