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

favorite songNEW!fumino

Fumino / favorite song -Music Video-

Fumino, who drew major attention as the first artist on the label led by Chanmina, released this work as her debut single in January 2026.

It became a hot topic when it was revealed that Chanmina had written it as a “gift” to Fumino for her live performance on NTV’s Shuichi.

The brisk pop-rock sound highlights Fumino’s down-to-earth charm.

Packed with the bright energy of a so-called “vitamin song,” it’s perfect for mornings when you need a boost or when you’re ready to take a new step forward.

BABYNEW!YOASOBI

BABY

This work is a bittersweet yet heartwarming love song that portrays pure feelings of love too deep for words and the wavering conflicts they bring.

Released in January 2026, it was written as the ending theme for the TV anime “For You in Full Bloom.” Ayase’s sound arrangement—built on the world of Yasuko Aoki’s original novel “My Dear……”—is perfect for lingering in the afterglow of the anime.

And ikura’s delicate vocals gently embrace the emotions that quietly grow deep within the heart.

It’s a song I recommend for nights when you want to sit in quiet contemplation.

Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)NEW!Reiko

REIKO ‘Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)’ Music Video

After participating in SKY-HI’s audition “THE FIRST,” REIKO has honed her craft as a solo artist under BMSG.

Released digitally on January 12, 2026, “Lullaby (Prod.

ALYSA)” was selected as the January ending theme for the TV program “Hiruobi.” Produced by ALYSA, the track blends a nostalgic band sound with piano to create a warm yet wistful atmosphere.

The lyrics, which dwell on lingering feelings for a former lover, delicately portray regret and prayers for time that can’t be reclaimed.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side on sleepless nights when memories resurface.

With a tender yet resolute vocal delivery that resonates deeply, it’s a superb ballad number.

LOVE 2000NEW!tsuru and kame

Tsuru and Kame “LOVE 2000” Official Music Video

Formed by Jutaro Yamanaka of M!LK and Aloha Takamatsu of Chotokkyu, who co-star in the film “Pure Love, Bring It On!”, Tsuru and Kame is a limited-time unit.

Released on January 15, 2026, this track is an upbeat tune created as the movie’s theme song.

Boldly covering hitomi’s smash hit from 2000, the arrangement brilliantly fuses the original’s forward-looking power with a contemporary dance beat.

The contrasting personas they play in the film—honor student and rebel—intertwine in their vocals and performance to deliver a striking impact on listeners.

It’s a danceable pop number perfect not only for amping up excitement ahead of the film’s release, but also for times when you want to recharge with positive energy.

My respectNEW!Nogizaka 46

My respect

Released as the lead track from their fifth album “My respect,” which came out in January 2026, this work ambitiously encapsulates the group’s journey and current place through the word “respect.” The melody by Kazuma Kawata and others is refined yet conveys a strong sense of determination.

It’s a moving number perfectly suited to the dawn of a new era, one that resonates as we witness them embrace their history while stepping into the future.

Wimarma SagaNEW!shigure ui

[Original Song] Wimarma Saga / Shigure Ui (9) vs. Shigure Ui (16) [IOSYS (Maron & D.watt)]

Shigure Ui, who continues to captivate many fans with her diverse talents as both an illustrator and a VTuber.

Released in January 2026, this work was created under a unique concept where her 9-year-old and 16-year-old selves face off against each other.

With IOSYS delivering an addictive beat and an intense back-and-forth that clash and intertwine, the track refuses to leave your head after just one listen.

It’s a perfect number for scenes where you want to lift your mood.

GaiaSiip

Siip – Gaia (Official Lyric Video)

Singer-songwriter and creator Siip continues to work while keeping many details shrouded in mystery.

Inspired by a goddess from Greek mythology, this piece blends a genre-defying, mystical sound with highly evocative production that resonates deeply.

The lyrics, which embrace fluctuation and change, mirror the listener’s inner world and impart a curious sense of calm.

It’s a track with a sweeping narrative quality that makes you want to immerse yourself in it on a quiet night.