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

obsessive loveNEW!WEST.

WEST. – Aishū [Official Music Video]

WEST., a seven-member group that captivates fans with their uniquely Kansai-born brightness and fiery performances.

Released as a digital single in January 2026, this track was created as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Zenbu, Anata no Tame Dakara,” starring member Ryusei Fujii.

From the intro, its bewitching atmosphere and the thrilling lyrical world where love turns into obsession seize the listener’s heart.

A mature, irresistibly sultry strong love song.

Angel SeekNEW!Ado

[Ado] Angel Seek (Official Audio)

Singer Ado, who continues to spark social phenomena with her overwhelming vocal power and expressive range and has achieved massive success with world tours and dome concerts, released the digital single “Angel Seek” in January 2026.

The track was produced as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Yandoku!” and features music by popular Vocaloid producer Nirukagami, marking a much-talked-about reunion since 2022’s “Motherland.” Backed by a straightforward rock sound, her powerful vocals and razor-sharp lyrics about facing adversity are sure to blow away everyday worries and ignite a forward-looking fighting spirit.

DEAD CENTER feat. LiSANEW!REOL

Reol – ‘DEAD CENTER feat. LiSA’ Music Video

This track, included on Reol’s album “Bijigaku” released in January 2026, became a hot topic as a collaboration featuring LiSA, a singer renowned for numerous anime themes and beloved both in Japan and abroad.

True to its title, which means “right down the middle” in English slang, its powerful message—like two paths merging head-on—teaches the importance of believing in yourself and forging ahead.

With cutting-edge beats and the two vocalists’ voices colliding vividly, it’s an uplifting tune perfect for those decisive, make-or-break moments.

HYPNOTIZENEW!XG

XG – HYPNOTIZE (Official Music Video)

A track from the 1st full album “THE CORE – Nucleus,” released on January 23, 2026.

It features an ethereal soundscape where rhythmic piano merges with house beats.

The lyrics, carried by this immersive sound, captivate the listener with an irresistible allure that feels like being put under “hypnosis.” Its unique, dreamy float between the borders of dream and reality makes it perfect for nighttime relaxation.

3XLNEW!Number_i

3XL

It’s Number_i’s first love song.

Released as a digital single in January 2026, it pairs lyrics that portray pure, innocent feelings with a hard-hitting, bass-driven track for a striking contrast.

It’s a modern dance-pop tune that showcases their unique groove—sweet but not saccharine.

Perfect for when you want to feel the thrill of romance or lift your spirits and get energized.

PROVANTNEW!SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:Jean-Ken Johnny & TAKUMA

SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:Jean-Ken Johnny & TAKUMA『PROVANT』 Music Video

This is a powerful track from Hiroyuki Sawano’s vocal project featuring Jean-Ken Johnny of MAN WITH A MISSION and TAKUMA of 10-FEET.

It was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Fate/strange Fake, which began airing in January 2026.

The sound blends momentum and tension, perfectly fitting for the start of the story.

The chemistry created by the interplay of their contrasting vocal tones is also stunning.

Highly recommended for pivotal moments or to fire yourself up in the morning!

The Story of UsNEW!milet

milet 'The Story of Us' MUSIC VIDEO (TV anime 'Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End' Season 2 Ending Theme)

Written specifically as the ending theme for the second season of the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, this song is perfect for savoring the lingering emotions of the story.

Arranged by Evan Call, who also composed the score, its string-driven sound blends beautifully with the anime’s world.

Lyrics themed around journeys and memories intertwine with milet’s delicate vocals, kindling a quiet hope in the heart.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to at the end of the day, in a calm and unhurried mood.