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

Dead Or AliveGLAY

GLAY / Dead Or Alive

A powerful rock number that propels GLAY, who sprinted through their 30th anniversary, into their next stage.

Released in December 2025, this track was written as the opening theme for the popular battle-fantasy anime Record of Ragnarok III.

In step with the grand tale of gods and humanity wagering their lives in combat, it depicts those who continue to fight against inescapable fate.

TAKURO’s dramatic melody meshes perfectly with HISASHI’s weighty arrangement grounded in Rotterdam techno, delivering both tension and exhilaration.

It’s a fiery rock tune you’ll want to play when you need to steel yourself.

Fireworks in Augustmurasaki ima

Murasaki Ima – August Fireworks / Mulasaki Ima – unfading summer (MUSIC VIDEO)

A ballad that softly paints the flutter in the heart.

Released in August 2025, this song delicately weaves feelings of farewell to passing seasons and affection for the loved ones who shared those moments, resulting in a piece that gently nestles into the listener’s memories.

Her signature husky, expressive vocals further heighten the song’s sense of longing.

It’s perfect for those moments when the changing seasons stir up a touch of nostalgia.

trajectoryVaundy

trajectory

This work, Vaundy’s first full-fledged orchestral piece, possesses an overwhelming sense of scale that evokes the history of the Earth and the endeavors of humankind.

It carries a message that conjures the flow of time connecting the past to the future, and together with its weighty sound, it resonates deeply with listeners.

Chosen as the theme song for the TBS program “World Heritage,” it will be released digitally in November 2025.

The recording at London’s prestigious Abbey Road Studios also became a major talking point.

Intro “Soul Quake”watson

Watson – Intro “Soul Quake” (Official Video)

Rapper Watson, who wins support with unadorned, real words as his weapon.

This track, whose music video dropped in January 2026, blends soul-stirring intensity with a quiet resolve.

It reflects where he stands as he heads toward his Nippon Budokan show in March 2026, and the power of words rising from within really stands out, drawing you in for a deep listen.

It’s a richly layered hip-hop piece for those moments when you want to steel yourself for a big goal or stoke your fighting spirit.

RIDEONE N’ ONLY

ONE N’ ONLY／ “RIDE” Music Video

It’s a dance number that lets you feel a refreshing, happy vibe—like going on a drive with friends, swept by a tropical breeze.

Tropical sounds and reggaeton rhythms intertwine comfortably, resulting in a catchy track that makes your body move before you know it.

The lyrics sprinkle in English and Spanish, carrying a positive message that crosses borders and brings everyone together.

It’s filled with the glow of time spent with someone special and the uplifting energy of enjoying the moment.

Included on ONE N’ ONLY’s major-label debut album “AMAZONIA,” set for release in November 2025, this track is perfect for summer drives and parties with friends.

end creditsTakahashi Yuu

Yu Takahashi “End Roll” MV

This is a mid-tempo ballad released in July 2025, marking the 15th anniversary of their major-label debut.

The song is filled with gratitude for the fans, staff, and friends who have supported them over the past 15 years, as well as a strong desire to keep singing into the future.

The first half unfolds gently, centered on piano, and gradually builds into a dynamic full-band sound in the latter half—an arrangement that’s truly moving.

It’s a warm number recommended for moments when you want to reflect on bonds with someone important or when you’re reaching a milestone in life.

AdrenaYOASOBI

Adrena

This work vividly captures the slapstick chaos of school life and the flutter of first love through Ayase’s signature high-speed, whirlwind sound.

Released in January 2026, it was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Hana Zakari no Kimitachi e.” Based on Fuyu Tsuyama’s newly written original novel “Magical,” it’s a delightful track where ikura’s vocals shift expression to match the comical tone.

An energetic uptempo tune perfect for mornings when you want to instantly lift your mood or for flipping on your motivation switch.