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

bondKamenashi Kazuya

bond

The ballad that once played as an insert song in the second season of the drama Gokusen and left a deep impression on viewers is drawing attention again in 2025.

Written by Kazuya Kamenashi himself, the track was included as the B-side to Shuuji to Akira’s smash-hit single “Seishun Amigo” in November 2005.

Set to a distinctive folk-guitar arpeggio, the song carefully weaves a resolve to keep walking hand in hand despite misunderstandings and doubts.

Its universal message—equally resonant in romance and friendship—has remained in many listeners’ memories alongside the drama’s iconic scenes.

The track is also featured on the 2025 digital solo best-of album “Kame Best,” reaffirming its presence as a timeless classic passed down across generations.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side when you want to reaffirm the bond with someone important.

streetlightBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Streetlight - Music Video -

It’s a warm track that gently lights up a winter night road.

Released in December 2025, the song stands out with a euphoric, gospel-based sound.

Its message—that the small joys found in everyday life are truly precious—resonates deeply.

The layered vocals create a sense of togetherness, as if you’re singing along with friends, which is part of its charm.

A pop tune that quietly stays by your side.

UnderdogEVE

Underdog – Eve Music Video

This track captures a heart wavering between the fiction and reality of the social media era, carried by razor-sharp synths and tight beats.

It’s a single released in November 2025 by Eve, a singer-songwriter who commands massive support from the online scene.

Delving deep into his own inner world, the song delivers a message to everyone living today: when you’re struggling to accept yourself, you don’t have to force yourself to be strong.

Playful touches—like a hidden nod to the timbre of his signature song “Dramaturgy” in the intro—add to its charm.

Be sure to check out the high-quality animated music video as well!

Midnight ReflectionNOMELON NOLEMON

NOMELON NOLEMON / Midnight Reflection Official Music Video

Created by NOMELON NOLEMON, this piece was written as an insert song for the theatrical advance version Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-, premiering in January 2025.

With spaceflight as its concept, the lyrics strikingly depict the vast cosmos and feelings for a cherished person.

Rooted in electropop, the sound conveys a sense of speed while leaving a gently nostalgic afterglow.

Miki Maria’s soft vocals enticingly draw the epic scale of the track into a more intimate, human warmth.

It’s a song that will resonate deeply when you’re alone at night, lost in thought, or holding someone in your heart.

Blue NoiseRyosuke Yamada

Ryosuke Yamada – “Blue Noise” [Official Music Video]

This track stands out with a driving sound that fuses hip-hop and traditional Japanese elements.

Created under Ryosuke Yamada’s solo name, the song will be released as a CD single in January 2026.

It serves as the opening theme for the second season of the anime “Ao no Miburo,” the Serizawa Assassination arc, with lyrics that reflect the story’s Shinsengumi-centered worldview.

Yamada’s vocal work shines, showcasing deft shifts in tone and wide emotional range—qualities honed alongside his acclaimed acting career, which includes winning newcomer awards at film festivals.

It’s a must-listen not only for anime fans but also for anyone seeking a fresh, genre-crossing sound.

BaburinHIMEHINA

HIMEHINA “Bublin” MV

HIMEHINA, who continue to shine with a unique presence in the music scene as virtual artists, released their 4th album “Bubblin” in July 2025.

The title track is a perfect summer pop tune themed around the fleeting yet resilient nature of life—like bubbles that burst and vanish.

Its exhilarating sound is ideal for summer festivals or a drive.

The music video features dynamic, bursting dance steps that are a visual highlight.

Highly recommended for anyone looking for a burst of energy in their everyday life.

Never Romanticnaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – Never Romantic [Official Music Video]

Released in December 2025, this song is a party tune written as the theme for the film “Romantic Killer.” It captures the rush of falling in love and the unstoppable, spellbound flutter of the heart with a sparkling, explosive sound.

Its romantic, happy worldview is a major draw.

It’s a glittering number that’s perfect for the season when you can’t help wanting to fall in love.