[2026] Must-listen! This Year's Best Japanese Hit Songs

STARSSnow Man

Snow Man ‘STARS’ Music Video

Snow Man is an idol group that shines across a wide range of fields, including TV, stage, and variety shows.

This work is the song they released in February 2026 as the theme for TBS Sports 2026.

Comparing each member’s brilliance to stars, it carries a message that inspires everyone who continues to run toward their dreams.

The driving beat and the voices of the nine members are enough to set your heart ablaze.

It’s perfect not only before watching sports, but also when you need courage at a crucial moment—whether at work or studying—sure to fire you up.

Medianochezutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

ZUTOMAYO “Medianoche” MV (I wish it could stay midnight forever.)

Released in January 2026, the track “Medianoche” is a pre-release single from the album “Keimosodo,” which came out in March of the same year.

As the Spanish title meaning “midnight” suggests, it evokes a world of late-night stillness and inner conflict that leaves a strong impression.

ACA-ne’s husky vocals blend with a driving, electronic beat to powerfully stir the listener’s emotions.

It’s a perfect listen for nights when you want to face yourself more deeply.

BANQUET BANGMAZZEL

MAZZEL / BANQUET BANG -Music Video-

MAZZEL is a dance and vocal group under BMSG, led by SKY-HI.

Released digitally in February 2026 ahead of their April 2026 album Banquet, this track packs overwhelming power that sweeps listeners into the frenzy of a “banquet.” Its nonstop, driving beat and hard-hitting sound deliver an exhilarating rush that makes you want to whirl a towel and shout at a live show.

It’s perfect for those moments when you want to forget your daily worries and get hyped, or for nights when you want to set yourself free and dance till morning!

ray Ultra Princess Kaguya! Versionkaguya (cv. Natsuyoshi Yuuko), tsukimi yachiyo (cv. Hayami Saori)

[Official MV] ray Super Princess Kaguya! Version / Kaguya (cv: Yuko Natsuyoshi), Tsukimi Yachiyo (cv: Saori Hayami) from #SuperPrincessKaguya!

This song was selected as the ending theme for the Netflix film “Super Princess Kaguya!” The performers are Kaguya and Tsukimi Yachiyo, the charismatic figures in the story.

The original track by BUMP OF CHICKEN is also well-known for having been released in March 2014 as a collaboration with Hatsune Miku.

This time, TAKU INOUE handled the arrangement, crafting an electronic sound that aligns with the film’s world.

It’s perfect for lingering in the afterglow of the movie—and highly recommended to listen to with someone special!

Fashion Killa♡Aee! group

Aぇ! group “Fashion Killa♡” Official Music Video

サブリード曲「Fashion Killa♡」が収録されたAぇ! groupのセカンドアルバム『Runway』のミュージックビデオは、2026年2月に公開されます。

It features a bold message about wielding fashion as a weapon to steal hearts, along with an addictive melody.

The sparkling lyrics—evoking the thrill of choosing outfits for someone you like and the feeling of basking in the spotlight—will make listeners’ hearts skip.

If you play it while getting ready to go out, I think it’ll really lift your mood!