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

By the side on a moonlit nightNEW!Uru

[Official] Uru “By Your Side on a Moonlit Night” — Theme song for the film “The Guardian of the Camphor Tree”

Singer-songwriter Uru, whose mysterious vocals envelop listeners.

Produced by back number, this work was written as the theme song for the film “The Guardian of the Camphor Tree,” slated for release in January 2026.

Its sound feels like being illuminated by moonlight in the quiet, and the vocals, which gently scoop up feelings that defy words, resonate deeply in the heart.

It makes you empathize with that earnest longing to simply be by someone important.

If you listen at night when you want to spend time alone in silence, I think a gentle warmth will fill you to the depths of your heart.

AgainNEW!Mr.Children

Mr.Children「Again」Lyric Video

A stirring rock number by Mr.Children, a band that has long led Japan’s music scene.

Selected as the theme song for the TBS Sunday drama “Reboot,” airing in January 2026, the track features a weighty arrangement that heightens the show’s tension.

The lyrics depict a vow to make a comeback while bearing scars of the past.

It’s sure to inspire courage when you’re at a crossroads in life or ready to try again.

TEST MENEW!chanmina

CHANMINA – TEST ME (Official Music Video)

Chanmina’s “TEST ME” is a song you won’t forget after a single listen.

With her signature edgy sound, it turns even negative emotions like “resentment” and “jealousy” into fuel to move forward, radiating overwhelming energy.

Released as a single in January 2026, it was written as the opening theme for the third season of the TV anime Oshi no Ko.

Many listeners will likely be moved by the determination to prove oneself while enduring others’ gazes and judgments.

When our eyes metNEW!FRUITS ZIPPER

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER “When Our Eyes Met”

FRUITS ZIPPER continues to share “Kawaii” from Harajuku with the world.

Released as a digital single in January 2026, this work was produced as part of a collaboration project with the eyewear brand Zoff.

Lyrics and music are by Sho Yamamoto, who has created numerous classics, and the track features a light, poppy sound.

It carries a positive message: when your view changes, the world looks different.

Listen when you want to take a step toward your dreams, and it’s sure to lift your spirits!

bashfulnessNEW!Hey! Say! JUMP

bashfulness

This is Hey! Say! JUMP’s 36th single, released in February 2026, continuing to captivate fans with their signature idol sound.

It was chosen as the theme song for the drama “50-Minute Lover,” starring group member Kei Inoo.

A straight-up love song, its sparkling sound evokes a spring breeze and pairs perfectly with a world that captures the bittersweetness of unrequited love.

It also features a memorable phrase born from Inoo’s suggestion during production to “make the lyrics stick in your head.” Overflowing with positive energy, this work gives you a gentle push when you feel timid about love or want to take a step forward into a new season.

HARD WORKNEW!naniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – HARD WORK [Official Music Video]

Released in February 2026, this work is their tenth single overall.

It was selected as the theme song for the drama “Yokohama Neighbors Season 1,” co-produced by Tokai TV and WOWOW.

Branded as a swing-rock anthem, its sound features a bouncy beat and an exhilarating feel that naturally gets your body moving.

The lyrics are packed with fiery energy centered on themes of hard work and perseverance.

Give it a listen when you need the power to move forward.

A Crescendo of Falling in LoveNEW!Hinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 “Falling in Love Crescendo” MUSIC VIDEO

Featured on the single “Cliffhanger” released by Hinatazaka46 in January 2026, this track is packed with the fresh charm of the 5th-generation members.

The lyrics, depicting the moment when feelings for someone you thought was just a friend suddenly turn into love, leave a strong impression.

With an upbeat sound and call-and-response in English woven throughout, you can almost see the fans and the group getting hyped together at a live show.

Be sure to give this pop number a listen—where the brilliance of youth coexists with a touch of heartache.