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

[2026] Must-listen! This Year's Best Japanese Hit Songs
1	ShakenabeibeAKASAKI	AKASAKI’s Marriage Toxin ED song
2	HeroDISH//	Rock that comforts the heart by DISH//
3	When flyingVaundy	Vaundy releases a new song themed around departure
4	sparkKitanitatsuya	Expressing a strong will to overcome difficulties
5	Update MEME:I	A new song by ME:I with a positive theme
6	Heaven KnowsB’z	B’z releases a new Conan opening theme
7	one flowerLittle Glee Monster	Little Glee Monster’s drama insert song
8	Continuation of wordsrokudenashi	Good-for-nothing Piano Ballad Works
9	We on Fire&TEAM	&TEAM's new song is full of passion and energy
10	one two threePenthouse	Funky pop anime theme song for Penthouse
11	SAVE YOUR HEARTSnow Man	Snow Man's futuristic song
12	Steppin’!!!OCTPATH	Introduction to OCTPATH’s 9th single title track
13	Too BadNiziU	NiziU’s new song, with a theme of affirming one’s true self
14	Nice.CUTIE STREET	The pop tune of CUTIE STREET, the song for Lotte’s new brand commercial
15	Please give me just four minutes.timelesz	A passionate song that sings of the band's gratitude and love
16	Bad GirlHANA	HANA’s song featured in an Apple commercial, an awkward love song
17	HEARTLOUDKis-my-ft2	A song by Kis-My-Ft2 that fuses traditional Japanese instruments and electro
18	The SILENCEVaundy	A song by Vaundy that portrays silence and lingering resonance
19	charmer / smooth talkerKuwata Keisuke	Keisuke Kuwata produces a brand-new song written exclusively for an anime
20	LuminousAina ji Endo	Aina the End releases the opening theme song for the One Piece Elbaf arc
21	ChapterRyokushokushakai	A message song to reclaim myself
22	Triangle GameYuika	A love song in which Yuika likens a love triangle to a game
23	I can’t sleep because ideas are overflowingVaundy	Vaundy’s fast-paced pop-rock
24	Love dinnerano	ano expresses adolescent conflicts in “Ai Bansan” (Love Banquet)
25	Last dance with youMISIA	MISIA’s new song, the theme song for the Detective Conan movie
26	Cold NightHANA	HANA’s support song dedicated to those who chase their dreams
27	FrightCreepy Nuts	A new song that portrays anxiety and courage
28	elderflowerOfisharu Higedan Dism	Higedan diss tracks release a ballad as a movie theme song for streaming
29	StardustOfisharu Higedan Dism	A song that gives a push from setback to hope
30	first cryMr.Children	A song by Mr.Children that affirms the preciousness of living
31	Fivearashi	Arashi’s new song “five” is a track that expresses the bond of the five members.
32	Zero -zero-tuki.	A powerful song that melts a frozen heart
33	Kill or KissHirate Yurina	Yurina Hirate's dance number track
34	FLIP FLAPchanmina	Chanmina’s new song cynically depicts society’s evaluations
35	transparentNovelbright	A pop song that empathizes with troubles in human relationships
36	The calling voiceVaundy	The appeal of Vaundy’s anthemic songs
37	DECOTORA15LiSA	A pop-punk bursting with a sense of speed for LiSA’s 15th anniversary
38	BANG!!Snow Man	Snow Man's new song, a movie theme song
39	It’s AlrightFuji Kaze	Fujii Kaze’s soul track fused with traditional Japanese instruments
40	At first, my heart skipped a beat!Nakajima Kento	Kento Nakajima’s new song embodies the image of an idol
41	USOTSUKISTARGLOW	STARGLOW’s new song gets a commercial tie-in
42	Until it breaks and disappears10-FEET	A rock song with the will to overcome adversity
43	My cutieMON7A	MON7A’s love song is hugely popular on YouTube
44	Let’s dance!Snow Man	A fun dance party song by Snow Man
45	Welcome back, Johnny.ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION	ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s new song portrays feelings for their hometown
46	Hotlinefumino	A warm number that portrays the bonds of friendship
47	EverydayBialystocks	Warm pop that makes the everyday feel special
48	ElementTHE BEAT GARDEN	Drama theme song, with science and family as themes.
49	vivariumAdo	A rock song based on Ado’s autobiographical novel
50	Get Up And DanceMAZZEL	Ponkikki sampling track
51	Nihilism PrismGen’in wa jibun ni aru.	A catchy, wordplay-addicted number
52	Super Super Super! SUPER HAPPY feat. m.c.A·TDA PUMP	DA PUMP covers the song from the Fanta commercial
53	GOOD TOGETHERtimelesz	A bright pop song by timelessz
54	prima donnaHoshimachi Suisei	Hoshimachi Suisei New Song Prima Donna
55	I love you explosivelyM!LK	M!LK’s explosively positive song affirming love
56	Ai Ai AAdo	Introducing the Appeal of Ado’s New Song “Ai Ai A”
57	SaturdayMr.Children	Relax with the new song by Mr.Children
58	moratorium＝LOVE	A bittersweet love song by the idol group =LOVE
59	Serenadenatori	Oshi no Ko ED theme song, a lyrical dance beat
60	Ride the windRyokushokushakai	A single that sings of anxiety and courage toward dreams
61	When was the last time you ran up the stairs?Nogizaka 46	A song of courage to reclaim the fever of youth
62	Chatter ChatterHoshimachi Suisei × Houshou Marin	A song that forges its own path, unshaken by the surrounding noise
63	This very dayUru	An epic ballad for a movie theme song
64	HEAD UP introduced by ZeebraTHE JET BOY BANGERZ	A dance tune by THE JET BOY BANGERZ in collaboration with Zeebra
65	Waltz for LilyKing&Prince	Fateful Encounter of King & Prince
66	layersyuzu	A commemorative song passing down memories 15 years after the earthquake disaster
67	green leavesimase	A sentimental song that portrays the confusion of youth and coming-of-age
68	BE:FIRST ALL DAYBE:FIRST	BE:FIRST 5th Anniversary Song
69	oarYorushika	A song by Yorushika themed as an answer to anger
70	It’s a love like cherry blossoms.miwa	miwa’s new spring song, a love ballad themed around cherry blossoms
71	gang up on someone; beat someone up badly; total beatdownWANIMA	A surging fighting spirit and a band sound brimming with speed
72	Put magic in your pocketHata Motohiro	Motohiro Hata releases a new song as a TV drama theme
73	Ten Billion Cravings for ApprovalRemioromen	Remioromen’s first new song in 15 years
74	My PlaceFuji Kaze	Fujii Kaze’s Multicultural Baseball Cheer Song
75	Lucky I love youAI	A warm message song by AI
76	LumièreHarukamirai	Emo rock depicting hardships by Harukamirai
77	ploverYorushika	Yorushika’s poignant song with a Kenji motif
78	ALL INHANA	A high-energy track that portrays the resolve to charge forward with full force
79	TouchInaba Hiroshi	A beloved national anime song has evolved through a rock cover
80	WonderlandOmoinotake	Depicting the loneliness and brilliance of graduation in the Uni-Haru 2026 commercial song
81	The Story of the Wind and MeMiyamoto Hiroji	A warm, positive message song by Hiroji Miyamoto
82	0.2mmŌmori Motoki	Motoki Omori’s new solo mid-tempo ballad
83	PurikyukyuCUTIE STREET	A song by an idol spreading “KAWAII” to the world
84	Ignis -Ignis-Nishikawa Takanori	Takanori Nishikawa’s anime opening theme song
85	Let’s get started.Remioromen	Remioromen’s first new song in 15 years
86	ActionAKATSUKI	An addictive dance track in which AKASAKI depicts adolescence
87	by all means; no matter what; at any costback number	back number's Winter Olympics theme song
88	PlaysicYorushika	A heart-stirring song from Yorushika’s commercial
89	Discomutant!CUTIE STREET	Intercultural Exchange Disco between Aliens and Earthlings
90	crescendoM!LK	A classic idol song produced by Hayato Sano
91	OLD meets NEWDa-iCE	Dance-pop that fuses nostalgia and freshness from Da-iCE
92	AIZOKing Gnu	King Gnu’s intense, adrenaline-charged rock filled with a sense of urgency
93	In both shadows and sunlightTravis Japan	Travis Japan’s new song has the theme of duality
94	Mirror, mirrorSaitō Kazuyoshi	The importance of sticking to your convictions in Saito Kazuyoshi’s TV drama theme song
95	PuzzleIkuta Rira	Rira Ikuta releases “Puzzle,” the theme song for a dating show
96	cliffhangerHinatazaka46	A song where Manami Ohno Center’s emotional expression shines
97	Medianochezutto mayonaka de ii no ni.	Medianoche depicts the conflict at midnight.
98	Take off your glasses.nozomi	A pop song that expresses feelings of love through mathematics
99	Pardon the excessPorunogurafiti	Period-piece theme song by Porno Graffitti
100	GaiaSiip	The mysterious music of Siip resonates with the heart.
101	CaravanNovelbright	Novelbright's new song encourages the journey of life
102	brilliant; radiantSUPER BEAVER	SUPER BEAVER's movie theme song
103	STARSSnow Man	Snow Man releases a sports cheer song for streaming
104	BANQUET BANGMAZZEL	MAZZEL’s rapturous dance music
105	one secondSixTONES	SixTONES produces the support song for the Milan Olympics
106	I don’t need it.Sakanakushon	Sakanaction, a dance tune for a TV drama theme song
107	Stay with meTele	Singer Tele’s heartwarming song
108	MadderYorushika	A movie theme song inspired by Fujimura’s poetry
109	Slay! Mi AmoreJuice=Juice	Latin-style dance tune, an upbeat love song
110	Sensation SeasonSuda Masaki	Masaki Suda’s music: timeless songs that resonate with the heart
111	When our eyes metFRUITS ZIPPER	A new song by a band spreading Kawaii from Harajuku.
112	AgainMr.Children	A rock song themed around Mr.Children’s comeback
113	ENDROLLKawakami Yohei [Alexandros]×SennaRin	Insert song for a Gundam movie, featuring multiple artists
114	Gods’ Play feat. Naomi WatanabeNakajima Kento	Kento Nakajima and Naomi Watanabe collaborate
115	3XLNumber_i	Number_i's first love song, with pure lyrics and a groovy feel
116	HYPNOTIZEXG	A song that captivates listeners with its dreamy, ethereal sound
117	Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)Reiko	REIKO’s released track “Lullaby” is moving.
118	The world has ended.Yuuri	A moving song that conveys love through Yuuri’s powerful vocals
119	UnderdogEVE	Expressing self-affirmation and emotional fluctuations in the age of social media
120	lulu.Mrs. GREEN APPLE	The opening theme song of the anime “Frieren” is moving.
121	PROVANTSawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:Jean-Ken Johnny & TAKUMA	New song from Hiroyuki Sawano's vocal project
122	TEST MEchanmina	Chanmina’s “TEST ME” is overwhelming energy
123	A Crescendo of Falling in LoveHinatazaka46	A coming-of-age pop song by Hinatazaka46’s 5th generation
124	DEAD CENTER feat. LiSAREOL	A powerful song collaborated with LiSA, a fiery feeling
125	streetlightBE:FIRST	A warm song of empathy echoing on a winter night
126	A Lump of LoveDOMOTO	A love ballad of warmth and wistfulness
127	The color of happinessOnda Masanori	Masayuki Onda, a TikTok sensation, and his bittersweet love song
128	The Story of Usmilet	Sousou no Frieren Season 2 Ending Theme
129	BABYYOASOBI	A poignant love song about pure affection and wavering emotions
130	Fashion Killa♡Aee! group	Aぇ! group new song Fashion Killer
131	HIROYUKIMasato Hayashi	Masato’s new work showcases courage and passion
132	This is just fine!WEST.	An energetic uptempo track that showcases the group's evolution
133	ray Ultra Princess Kaguya! Versionkaguya (cv. Natsuyoshi Yuuko), tsukimi yachiyo (cv. Hayami Saori)	Ending theme song of a Netflix film
134	I want someone to tell me, “The moon is beautiful, isn’t it?”Kakizaki Yūta	Yuta Kakizaki’s love song is now available for streaming
135	Crashing WinnersVOLTACTION×3SKM	A VTuber collaboration track—an intense song that evokes the night before a revolution.
136	Song of dawnjo0ji	The moving songs of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen
137	XTCNakajima Kento	A powerful song that depicts the truth behind the mask
138	monologueOmoinotake	The ending theme song of the anime “The Apothecary Diaries”
139	bondKamenashi Kazuya	The moving ballad from Gokusen will be in the spotlight again in 2025.
140	favorite songfumino	Debut of an uplifting pop-rock song
141	Never Romanticnaniwa danshi	A party tune that captures the thrill of love
142	Nobody Knowsmilet	A song about finding oneself, a challenge piece for a movie theme song
143	PLAYER 1Ryokushokushakai	An uplifting song that turns a crisis into an opportunity
144	ShareYU-KI	Theme song that immerses you in the world of book thieves
145	Midnight ReflectionNOMELON NOLEMON	A grand insert song imbued with feelings for the cosmos
146	Nebula RomancePerfume	Perfume’s latest song, “Harmony of Space and Love”
147	Blue NoiseRyosuke Yamada	Ryōsuke Yamada’s Japanese-style hip-hop track, an anime theme song
148	Sorry for singing.AKASAKI	The passionate song by AKASAKI from the NEC LAVIE commercial
149	Angel SeekAdo	Ado releases new song 'Angel Seek'
150	bashfulnessHey! Say! JUMP	Hey! Say! JUMP’s love-support song
151	By the side on a moonlit nightUru	Uru writes a new song for a film’s theme
152	obsessive loveWEST.	WEST new song drama theme song
153	HARD WORKnaniwa danshi	10th single to be released in February 2026, theme song for a drama.
154	AdrenaYOASOBI	Expressing love with the high-speed sounds of school life
155	Fireworks in Augustmurasaki ima	The changing seasons and thoughts for a loved one
156	BaburinHIMEHINA	A summer song by HIMEHINA, a life that pops like bubbles
157	exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]	Anime theme song, a rousing anthem that colors a passionate world
158	Intro “Soul Quake”watson	A searing intensity that shakes the soul with real, down-to-earth words
159	LOVE 2000tsuru and kame	Movie theme song by Jutaro Yamanaka and Aloha Takamatsu
160	NON STOPHANA	A song that expresses HANA’s dream and the journey of one year
161	My PrincessROIROM	A love song lit by winter candles
162	BRAVE GROOVEiLiFE!	A fiery anime theme song that makes your body move
163	Wimarma Sagashigure ui	Shigure Ui’s genius song showdown
164	faint noseKitanitatsuya feat. BABYMETA	Masterpieces by Tatsuya Kitani and BABYMETAL
165	My respectNogizaka 46	A moving piece that portrays respect and history
166	Two People in a Fading CitySazan Ōrusutāzu	The melancholy of dusk, feelings beyond words
167	Dead Or AliveGLAY	GLAY’s powerful new song to be the theme for an anime
168	SanitizerOfisharu Higedan Dism	Message of self-growth and purification of human relationships
169	trajectoryVaundy	An epic musical and a moving depiction of Earth’s history
170	RIDEONE N’ ONLY	A tropical summer dance number
171	True LoveINI	A coming-of-age pop-rock song for a movie theme
172	LAVALAVANumber_i	A driving love song that’s both brisk and chill, transcending the suffocation of the city.
173	end creditsTakahashi Yuu	A heartwarming 15th-anniversary ballad filled with gratitude for the fans
174	MAKE IT, BREAK ITFLOW GLOW	A boundary-pushing dance number that makes your heart leap.
175	Bizarre DismantlingMURASAKI	The popular theme song of an urban-legend game
176	FakeNise Akira	Nise-Akira, Gen Hoshino’s alter ego, makes his major debut.
177	replicaVaundy	A composition of selfhood, a song of conflict and will
178	Welcome To Our Show TonightTravis Japan	Travis Japan’s swing jazz makes you forget your fatigue
179	loveUru	A song of pain and love that lingers, seeping into the heart.

1

ShakenabeibeAKASAKI

AKASAKI’s Marriage Toxin ED song

2

HeroDISH//

Rock that comforts the heart by DISH//

3

When flyingVaundy

Vaundy releases a new song themed around departure

4

sparkKitanitatsuya

Expressing a strong will to overcome difficulties

5

Update MEME:I

A new song by ME:I with a positive theme

6

Heaven KnowsB’z

B’z releases a new Conan opening theme

7

one flowerLittle Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster’s drama insert song

8

Continuation of wordsrokudenashi

Good-for-nothing Piano Ballad Works

9

We on Fire&TEAM

&TEAM's new song is full of passion and energy

10

one two threePenthouse

Funky pop anime theme song for Penthouse

11

SAVE YOUR HEARTSnow Man

Snow Man's futuristic song

12

Steppin’!!!OCTPATH

Introduction to OCTPATH’s 9th single title track

13

Too BadNiziU

NiziU’s new song, with a theme of affirming one’s true self

14

Nice.CUTIE STREET

The pop tune of CUTIE STREET, the song for Lotte’s new brand commercial

15

Please give me just four minutes.timelesz

A passionate song that sings of the band's gratitude and love

16

Bad GirlHANA

HANA’s song featured in an Apple commercial, an awkward love song

17

HEARTLOUDKis-my-ft2

A song by Kis-My-Ft2 that fuses traditional Japanese instruments and electro

18

The SILENCEVaundy

A song by Vaundy that portrays silence and lingering resonance

19

charmer / smooth talkerKuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata produces a brand-new song written exclusively for an anime

20

LuminousAina ji Endo

Aina the End releases the opening theme song for the One Piece Elbaf arc

21

ChapterRyokushokushakai

A message song to reclaim myself

22

Triangle GameYuika

A love song in which Yuika likens a love triangle to a game

23

I can’t sleep because ideas are overflowingVaundy

Vaundy’s fast-paced pop-rock

24

Love dinnerano

ano expresses adolescent conflicts in “Ai Bansan” (Love Banquet)

25

Last dance with youMISIA

MISIA’s new song, the theme song for the Detective Conan movie

26

Cold NightHANA

HANA’s support song dedicated to those who chase their dreams

27

FrightCreepy Nuts

A new song that portrays anxiety and courage

28

elderflowerOfisharu Higedan Dism

Higedan diss tracks release a ballad as a movie theme song for streaming

29

StardustOfisharu Higedan Dism

A song that gives a push from setback to hope

30

first cryMr.Children

A song by Mr.Children that affirms the preciousness of living

31

Fivearashi

Arashi’s new song “five” is a track that expresses the bond of the five members.

32

Zero -zero-tuki.

A powerful song that melts a frozen heart

33

Kill or KissHirate Yurina

Yurina Hirate's dance number track

34

FLIP FLAPchanmina

Chanmina’s new song cynically depicts society’s evaluations

35

transparentNovelbright

A pop song that empathizes with troubles in human relationships

36

The calling voiceVaundy

The appeal of Vaundy’s anthemic songs

37

DECOTORA15LiSA

A pop-punk bursting with a sense of speed for LiSA’s 15th anniversary

38

BANG!!Snow Man

Snow Man's new song, a movie theme song

39

It’s AlrightFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze’s soul track fused with traditional Japanese instruments

40

At first, my heart skipped a beat!Nakajima Kento

Kento Nakajima’s new song embodies the image of an idol

41

USOTSUKISTARGLOW

STARGLOW’s new song gets a commercial tie-in

42

Until it breaks and disappears10-FEET

A rock song with the will to overcome adversity

43

My cutieMON7A

MON7A’s love song is hugely popular on YouTube

44

Let’s dance!Snow Man

A fun dance party song by Snow Man

45

Welcome back, Johnny.ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s new song portrays feelings for their hometown

46

Hotlinefumino

A warm number that portrays the bonds of friendship

47

EverydayBialystocks

Warm pop that makes the everyday feel special

48

ElementTHE BEAT GARDEN

Drama theme song, with science and family as themes.

49

vivariumAdo

A rock song based on Ado’s autobiographical novel

50

Get Up And DanceMAZZEL

Ponkikki sampling track

51

Nihilism PrismGen’in wa jibun ni aru.

A catchy, wordplay-addicted number

52

Super Super Super! SUPER HAPPY feat. m.c.A·TDA PUMP

DA PUMP covers the song from the Fanta commercial

53

GOOD TOGETHERtimelesz

A bright pop song by timelessz

54

prima donnaHoshimachi Suisei

Hoshimachi Suisei New Song Prima Donna

55

I love you explosivelyM!LK

M!LK’s explosively positive song affirming love

56

Ai Ai AAdo

Introducing the Appeal of Ado’s New Song “Ai Ai A”

57

SaturdayMr.Children

Relax with the new song by Mr.Children

58

moratorium＝LOVE

A bittersweet love song by the idol group =LOVE

59

Serenadenatori

Oshi no Ko ED theme song, a lyrical dance beat

60

Ride the windRyokushokushakai

A single that sings of anxiety and courage toward dreams

61

When was the last time you ran up the stairs?Nogizaka 46

A song of courage to reclaim the fever of youth

62

Chatter ChatterHoshimachi Suisei × Houshou Marin

A song that forges its own path, unshaken by the surrounding noise

63

This very dayUru

An epic ballad for a movie theme song

64

HEAD UP introduced by ZeebraTHE JET BOY BANGERZ

A dance tune by THE JET BOY BANGERZ in collaboration with Zeebra

65

Waltz for LilyKing&Prince

Fateful Encounter of King & Prince

66

layersyuzu

A commemorative song passing down memories 15 years after the earthquake disaster

67

green leavesimase

A sentimental song that portrays the confusion of youth and coming-of-age

68

BE:FIRST ALL DAYBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST 5th Anniversary Song

69

oarYorushika

A song by Yorushika themed as an answer to anger

70

It’s a love like cherry blossoms.miwa

miwa’s new spring song, a love ballad themed around cherry blossoms

71

gang up on someone; beat someone up badly; total beatdownWANIMA

A surging fighting spirit and a band sound brimming with speed

72

Put magic in your pocketHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata releases a new song as a TV drama theme

73

Ten Billion Cravings for ApprovalRemioromen

Remioromen’s first new song in 15 years

74

My PlaceFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze’s Multicultural Baseball Cheer Song

75

Lucky I love youAI

A warm message song by AI

76

LumièreHarukamirai

Emo rock depicting hardships by Harukamirai

77

ploverYorushika

Yorushika’s poignant song with a Kenji motif

78

ALL INHANA

A high-energy track that portrays the resolve to charge forward with full force

79

TouchInaba Hiroshi

A beloved national anime song has evolved through a rock cover

80

WonderlandOmoinotake

Depicting the loneliness and brilliance of graduation in the Uni-Haru 2026 commercial song

81

The Story of the Wind and MeMiyamoto Hiroji

A warm, positive message song by Hiroji Miyamoto

82

0.2mmŌmori Motoki

Motoki Omori’s new solo mid-tempo ballad

83

PurikyukyuCUTIE STREET

A song by an idol spreading “KAWAII” to the world

84

Ignis -Ignis-Nishikawa Takanori

Takanori Nishikawa’s anime opening theme song

85

Let’s get started.Remioromen

Remioromen’s first new song in 15 years

86

ActionAKATSUKI

An addictive dance track in which AKASAKI depicts adolescence

87

by all means; no matter what; at any costback number

back number's Winter Olympics theme song

88

PlaysicYorushika

A heart-stirring song from Yorushika’s commercial

89

Discomutant!CUTIE STREET

Intercultural Exchange Disco between Aliens and Earthlings

90

crescendoM!LK

A classic idol song produced by Hayato Sano

91

OLD meets NEWDa-iCE

Dance-pop that fuses nostalgia and freshness from Da-iCE

92

AIZOKing Gnu

King Gnu’s intense, adrenaline-charged rock filled with a sense of urgency

93

In both shadows and sunlightTravis Japan

Travis Japan’s new song has the theme of duality

94

Mirror, mirrorSaitō Kazuyoshi

The importance of sticking to your convictions in Saito Kazuyoshi’s TV drama theme song

95

PuzzleIkuta Rira

Rira Ikuta releases “Puzzle,” the theme song for a dating show

96

cliffhangerHinatazaka46

A song where Manami Ohno Center’s emotional expression shines

97

Medianochezutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Medianoche depicts the conflict at midnight.

98

Take off your glasses.nozomi

A pop song that expresses feelings of love through mathematics

99

Pardon the excessPorunogurafiti

Period-piece theme song by Porno Graffitti

100

GaiaSiip

The mysterious music of Siip resonates with the heart.

101

CaravanNovelbright

Novelbright's new song encourages the journey of life

102

brilliant; radiantSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER's movie theme song

103

STARSSnow Man

Snow Man releases a sports cheer song for streaming

104

BANQUET BANGMAZZEL

MAZZEL’s rapturous dance music

105

one secondSixTONES

SixTONES produces the support song for the Milan Olympics

106

I don’t need it.Sakanakushon

Sakanaction, a dance tune for a TV drama theme song

107

Stay with meTele

Singer Tele’s heartwarming song

108

MadderYorushika

A movie theme song inspired by Fujimura’s poetry

109

Slay! Mi AmoreJuice=Juice

Latin-style dance tune, an upbeat love song

110

Sensation SeasonSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda’s music: timeless songs that resonate with the heart

111

When our eyes metFRUITS ZIPPER

A new song by a band spreading Kawaii from Harajuku.

112

AgainMr.Children

A rock song themed around Mr.Children’s comeback

113

ENDROLLKawakami Yohei [Alexandros]×SennaRin

Insert song for a Gundam movie, featuring multiple artists

114

Gods’ Play feat. Naomi WatanabeNakajima Kento

Kento Nakajima and Naomi Watanabe collaborate

115

3XLNumber_i

Number_i's first love song, with pure lyrics and a groovy feel

116

HYPNOTIZEXG

A song that captivates listeners with its dreamy, ethereal sound

117

Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)Reiko

REIKO’s released track “Lullaby” is moving.

118

The world has ended.Yuuri

A moving song that conveys love through Yuuri’s powerful vocals

119

UnderdogEVE

Expressing self-affirmation and emotional fluctuations in the age of social media

120

lulu.Mrs. GREEN APPLE

The opening theme song of the anime “Frieren” is moving.

121

PROVANTSawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:Jean-Ken Johnny & TAKUMA

New song from Hiroyuki Sawano's vocal project

122

TEST MEchanmina

Chanmina’s “TEST ME” is overwhelming energy

123

A Crescendo of Falling in LoveHinatazaka46

A coming-of-age pop song by Hinatazaka46’s 5th generation

124

DEAD CENTER feat. LiSAREOL

A powerful song collaborated with LiSA, a fiery feeling

125

streetlightBE:FIRST

A warm song of empathy echoing on a winter night

126

A Lump of LoveDOMOTO

A love ballad of warmth and wistfulness

127

The color of happinessOnda Masanori

Masayuki Onda, a TikTok sensation, and his bittersweet love song

128

The Story of Usmilet

Sousou no Frieren Season 2 Ending Theme

129

BABYYOASOBI

A poignant love song about pure affection and wavering emotions

130

Fashion Killa♡Aee! group

Aぇ! group new song Fashion Killer

131

HIROYUKIMasato Hayashi

Masato’s new work showcases courage and passion

132

This is just fine!WEST.

An energetic uptempo track that showcases the group's evolution

133

ray Ultra Princess Kaguya! Versionkaguya (cv. Natsuyoshi Yuuko), tsukimi yachiyo (cv. Hayami Saori)

Watch “ray Ultra Princess Kaguya! Version kaguya (cv. Yuuko Natsuyoshi), tsukimi yachiyo (cv. Saori Hayami)” on YouTube

Ending theme song of a Netflix film

134

I want someone to tell me, “The moon is beautiful, isn’t it?”Kakizaki Yūta

Watch “I want someone to tell me, ‘The moon is beautiful, isn’t it?’ Kakizaki Yūta” on YouTube

Yuta Kakizaki’s love song is now available for streaming

135

Crashing WinnersVOLTACTION×3SKM

A VTuber collaboration track—an intense song that evokes the night before a revolution.

136

Song of dawnjo0ji

The moving songs of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen

137

XTCNakajima Kento

A powerful song that depicts the truth behind the mask

138

monologueOmoinotake

The ending theme song of the anime “The Apothecary Diaries”

139

bondKamenashi Kazuya

The moving ballad from Gokusen will be in the spotlight again in 2025.

140

favorite songfumino

Debut of an uplifting pop-rock song

141

Never Romanticnaniwa danshi

A party tune that captures the thrill of love

142

Nobody Knowsmilet

A song about finding oneself, a challenge piece for a movie theme song

143

PLAYER 1Ryokushokushakai

An uplifting song that turns a crisis into an opportunity

144

ShareYU-KI

Theme song that immerses you in the world of book thieves

145

Midnight ReflectionNOMELON NOLEMON

A grand insert song imbued with feelings for the cosmos

146

Nebula RomancePerfume

Perfume’s latest song, “Harmony of Space and Love”

147

Blue NoiseRyosuke Yamada

Ryōsuke Yamada’s Japanese-style hip-hop track, an anime theme song

148

Sorry for singing.AKASAKI

The passionate song by AKASAKI from the NEC LAVIE commercial

149

Angel SeekAdo

Ado releases new song 'Angel Seek'

150

bashfulnessHey! Say! JUMP

Hey! Say! JUMP’s love-support song

151

By the side on a moonlit nightUru

Uru writes a new song for a film’s theme

152

obsessive loveWEST.

WEST new song drama theme song

153

HARD WORKnaniwa danshi

10th single to be released in February 2026, theme song for a drama.

154

AdrenaYOASOBI

Expressing love with the high-speed sounds of school life

155

Fireworks in Augustmurasaki ima

The changing seasons and thoughts for a loved one

156

BaburinHIMEHINA

A summer song by HIMEHINA, a life that pops like bubbles

157

exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]

Anime theme song, a rousing anthem that colors a passionate world

158

Intro “Soul Quake”watson

A searing intensity that shakes the soul with real, down-to-earth words

159

LOVE 2000tsuru and kame

Movie theme song by Jutaro Yamanaka and Aloha Takamatsu

160

NON STOPHANA

A song that expresses HANA’s dream and the journey of one year

161

My PrincessROIROM

A love song lit by winter candles

162

BRAVE GROOVEiLiFE!

A fiery anime theme song that makes your body move

163

Wimarma Sagashigure ui

Shigure Ui’s genius song showdown

164

faint noseKitanitatsuya feat. BABYMETA

Masterpieces by Tatsuya Kitani and BABYMETAL

165

My respectNogizaka 46

A moving piece that portrays respect and history

166

Two People in a Fading CitySazan Ōrusutāzu

The melancholy of dusk, feelings beyond words

167

Dead Or AliveGLAY

GLAY’s powerful new song to be the theme for an anime

168

SanitizerOfisharu Higedan Dism

Message of self-growth and purification of human relationships

169

trajectoryVaundy

An epic musical and a moving depiction of Earth’s history

170

RIDEONE N’ ONLY

A tropical summer dance number

171

True LoveINI

A coming-of-age pop-rock song for a movie theme

172

LAVALAVANumber_i

A driving love song that’s both brisk and chill, transcending the suffocation of the city.

173

end creditsTakahashi Yuu

A heartwarming 15th-anniversary ballad filled with gratitude for the fans

174

MAKE IT, BREAK ITFLOW GLOW

A boundary-pushing dance number that makes your heart leap.

175

Bizarre DismantlingMURASAKI

The popular theme song of an urban-legend game

176

FakeNise Akira

Nise-Akira, Gen Hoshino’s alter ego, makes his major debut.

177

replicaVaundy

A composition of selfhood, a song of conflict and will

178

Welcome To Our Show TonightTravis Japan

Travis Japan’s swing jazz makes you forget your fatigue

179

loveUru

A song of pain and love that lingers, seeping into the heart.

[2026] Must-listen! This Year's Best Japanese Hit Songs
	Title	Playlist	Review
1	ShakenabeibeAKASAKI		AKASAKI’s Marriage Toxin ED song
2	HeroDISH//		Rock that comforts the heart by DISH//
3	When flyingVaundy		Vaundy releases a new song themed around departure
4	sparkKitanitatsuya		Expressing a strong will to overcome difficulties
5	Update MEME:I		A new song by ME:I with a positive theme
6	Heaven KnowsB’z		B’z releases a new Conan opening theme
7	one flowerLittle Glee Monster		Little Glee Monster’s drama insert song
8	Continuation of wordsrokudenashi		Good-for-nothing Piano Ballad Works
9	We on Fire&TEAM		&TEAM's new song is full of passion and energy
10	one two threePenthouse		Funky pop anime theme song for Penthouse
11	SAVE YOUR HEARTSnow Man		Snow Man's futuristic song
12	Steppin’!!!OCTPATH		Introduction to OCTPATH’s 9th single title track
13	Too BadNiziU		NiziU’s new song, with a theme of affirming one’s true self
14	Nice.CUTIE STREET		The pop tune of CUTIE STREET, the song for Lotte’s new brand commercial
15	Please give me just four minutes.timelesz		A passionate song that sings of the band's gratitude and love
16	Bad GirlHANA		HANA’s song featured in an Apple commercial, an awkward love song
17	HEARTLOUDKis-my-ft2		A song by Kis-My-Ft2 that fuses traditional Japanese instruments and electro
18	The SILENCEVaundy		A song by Vaundy that portrays silence and lingering resonance
19	charmer / smooth talkerKuwata Keisuke		Keisuke Kuwata produces a brand-new song written exclusively for an anime
20	LuminousAina ji Endo		Aina the End releases the opening theme song for the One Piece Elbaf arc
21	ChapterRyokushokushakai		A message song to reclaim myself
22	Triangle GameYuika		A love song in which Yuika likens a love triangle to a game
23	I can’t sleep because ideas are overflowingVaundy		Vaundy’s fast-paced pop-rock
24	Love dinnerano		ano expresses adolescent conflicts in “Ai Bansan” (Love Banquet)
25	Last dance with youMISIA		MISIA’s new song, the theme song for the Detective Conan movie
26	Cold NightHANA		HANA’s support song dedicated to those who chase their dreams
27	FrightCreepy Nuts		A new song that portrays anxiety and courage
28	elderflowerOfisharu Higedan Dism		Higedan diss tracks release a ballad as a movie theme song for streaming
29	StardustOfisharu Higedan Dism		A song that gives a push from setback to hope
30	first cryMr.Children		A song by Mr.Children that affirms the preciousness of living
31	Fivearashi		Arashi’s new song “five” is a track that expresses the bond of the five members.
32	Zero -zero-tuki.		A powerful song that melts a frozen heart
33	Kill or KissHirate Yurina		Yurina Hirate's dance number track
34	FLIP FLAPchanmina		Chanmina’s new song cynically depicts society’s evaluations
35	transparentNovelbright		A pop song that empathizes with troubles in human relationships
36	The calling voiceVaundy		The appeal of Vaundy’s anthemic songs
37	DECOTORA15LiSA		A pop-punk bursting with a sense of speed for LiSA’s 15th anniversary
38	BANG!!Snow Man		Snow Man's new song, a movie theme song
39	It’s AlrightFuji Kaze		Fujii Kaze’s soul track fused with traditional Japanese instruments
40	At first, my heart skipped a beat!Nakajima Kento		Kento Nakajima’s new song embodies the image of an idol
41	USOTSUKISTARGLOW		STARGLOW’s new song gets a commercial tie-in
42	Until it breaks and disappears10-FEET		A rock song with the will to overcome adversity
43	My cutieMON7A		MON7A’s love song is hugely popular on YouTube
44	Let’s dance!Snow Man		A fun dance party song by Snow Man
45	Welcome back, Johnny.ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION		ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s new song portrays feelings for their hometown
46	Hotlinefumino		A warm number that portrays the bonds of friendship
47	EverydayBialystocks		Warm pop that makes the everyday feel special
48	ElementTHE BEAT GARDEN		Drama theme song, with science and family as themes.
49	vivariumAdo		A rock song based on Ado’s autobiographical novel
50	Get Up And DanceMAZZEL		Ponkikki sampling track
51	Nihilism PrismGen’in wa jibun ni aru.		A catchy, wordplay-addicted number
52	Super Super Super! SUPER HAPPY feat. m.c.A·TDA PUMP		DA PUMP covers the song from the Fanta commercial
53	GOOD TOGETHERtimelesz		A bright pop song by timelessz
54	prima donnaHoshimachi Suisei		Hoshimachi Suisei New Song Prima Donna
55	I love you explosivelyM!LK		M!LK’s explosively positive song affirming love
56	Ai Ai AAdo		Introducing the Appeal of Ado’s New Song “Ai Ai A”
57	SaturdayMr.Children		Relax with the new song by Mr.Children
58	moratorium＝LOVE		A bittersweet love song by the idol group =LOVE
59	Serenadenatori		Oshi no Ko ED theme song, a lyrical dance beat
60	Ride the windRyokushokushakai		A single that sings of anxiety and courage toward dreams
61	When was the last time you ran up the stairs?Nogizaka 46		A song of courage to reclaim the fever of youth
62	Chatter ChatterHoshimachi Suisei × Houshou Marin		A song that forges its own path, unshaken by the surrounding noise
63	This very dayUru		An epic ballad for a movie theme song
64	HEAD UP introduced by ZeebraTHE JET BOY BANGERZ		A dance tune by THE JET BOY BANGERZ in collaboration with Zeebra
65	Waltz for LilyKing&Prince		Fateful Encounter of King & Prince
66	layersyuzu		A commemorative song passing down memories 15 years after the earthquake disaster
67	green leavesimase		A sentimental song that portrays the confusion of youth and coming-of-age
68	BE:FIRST ALL DAYBE:FIRST		BE:FIRST 5th Anniversary Song
69	oarYorushika		A song by Yorushika themed as an answer to anger
70	It’s a love like cherry blossoms.miwa		miwa’s new spring song, a love ballad themed around cherry blossoms
71	gang up on someone; beat someone up badly; total beatdownWANIMA		A surging fighting spirit and a band sound brimming with speed
72	Put magic in your pocketHata Motohiro		Motohiro Hata releases a new song as a TV drama theme
73	Ten Billion Cravings for ApprovalRemioromen		Remioromen’s first new song in 15 years
74	My PlaceFuji Kaze		Fujii Kaze’s Multicultural Baseball Cheer Song
75	Lucky I love youAI		A warm message song by AI
76	LumièreHarukamirai		Emo rock depicting hardships by Harukamirai
77	ploverYorushika		Yorushika’s poignant song with a Kenji motif
78	ALL INHANA		A high-energy track that portrays the resolve to charge forward with full force
79	TouchInaba Hiroshi		A beloved national anime song has evolved through a rock cover
80	WonderlandOmoinotake		Depicting the loneliness and brilliance of graduation in the Uni-Haru 2026 commercial song
81	The Story of the Wind and MeMiyamoto Hiroji		A warm, positive message song by Hiroji Miyamoto
82	0.2mmŌmori Motoki		Motoki Omori’s new solo mid-tempo ballad
83	PurikyukyuCUTIE STREET		A song by an idol spreading “KAWAII” to the world
84	Ignis -Ignis-Nishikawa Takanori		Takanori Nishikawa’s anime opening theme song
85	Let’s get started.Remioromen		Remioromen’s first new song in 15 years
86	ActionAKATSUKI		An addictive dance track in which AKASAKI depicts adolescence
87	by all means; no matter what; at any costback number		back number's Winter Olympics theme song
88	PlaysicYorushika		A heart-stirring song from Yorushika’s commercial
89	Discomutant!CUTIE STREET		Intercultural Exchange Disco between Aliens and Earthlings
90	crescendoM!LK		A classic idol song produced by Hayato Sano
91	OLD meets NEWDa-iCE		Dance-pop that fuses nostalgia and freshness from Da-iCE
92	AIZOKing Gnu		King Gnu’s intense, adrenaline-charged rock filled with a sense of urgency
93	In both shadows and sunlightTravis Japan		Travis Japan’s new song has the theme of duality
94	Mirror, mirrorSaitō Kazuyoshi		The importance of sticking to your convictions in Saito Kazuyoshi’s TV drama theme song
95	PuzzleIkuta Rira		Rira Ikuta releases “Puzzle,” the theme song for a dating show
96	cliffhangerHinatazaka46		A song where Manami Ohno Center’s emotional expression shines
97	Medianochezutto mayonaka de ii no ni.		Medianoche depicts the conflict at midnight.
98	Take off your glasses.nozomi		A pop song that expresses feelings of love through mathematics
99	Pardon the excessPorunogurafiti		Period-piece theme song by Porno Graffitti
100	GaiaSiip		The mysterious music of Siip resonates with the heart.
101	CaravanNovelbright		Novelbright's new song encourages the journey of life
102	brilliant; radiantSUPER BEAVER		SUPER BEAVER's movie theme song
103	STARSSnow Man		Snow Man releases a sports cheer song for streaming
104	BANQUET BANGMAZZEL		MAZZEL’s rapturous dance music
105	one secondSixTONES		SixTONES produces the support song for the Milan Olympics
106	I don’t need it.Sakanakushon		Sakanaction, a dance tune for a TV drama theme song
107	Stay with meTele		Singer Tele’s heartwarming song
108	MadderYorushika		A movie theme song inspired by Fujimura’s poetry
109	Slay! Mi AmoreJuice=Juice		Latin-style dance tune, an upbeat love song
110	Sensation SeasonSuda Masaki		Masaki Suda’s music: timeless songs that resonate with the heart
111	When our eyes metFRUITS ZIPPER		A new song by a band spreading Kawaii from Harajuku.
112	AgainMr.Children		A rock song themed around Mr.Children’s comeback
113	ENDROLLKawakami Yohei [Alexandros]×SennaRin		Insert song for a Gundam movie, featuring multiple artists
114	Gods’ Play feat. Naomi WatanabeNakajima Kento		Kento Nakajima and Naomi Watanabe collaborate
115	3XLNumber_i		Number_i's first love song, with pure lyrics and a groovy feel
116	HYPNOTIZEXG		A song that captivates listeners with its dreamy, ethereal sound
117	Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)Reiko		REIKO’s released track “Lullaby” is moving.
118	The world has ended.Yuuri		A moving song that conveys love through Yuuri’s powerful vocals
119	UnderdogEVE		Expressing self-affirmation and emotional fluctuations in the age of social media
120	lulu.Mrs. GREEN APPLE		The opening theme song of the anime “Frieren” is moving.
121	PROVANTSawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:Jean-Ken Johnny & TAKUMA		New song from Hiroyuki Sawano's vocal project
122	TEST MEchanmina		Chanmina’s “TEST ME” is overwhelming energy
123	A Crescendo of Falling in LoveHinatazaka46		A coming-of-age pop song by Hinatazaka46’s 5th generation
124	DEAD CENTER feat. LiSAREOL		A powerful song collaborated with LiSA, a fiery feeling
125	streetlightBE:FIRST		A warm song of empathy echoing on a winter night
126	A Lump of LoveDOMOTO		A love ballad of warmth and wistfulness
127	The color of happinessOnda Masanori		Masayuki Onda, a TikTok sensation, and his bittersweet love song
128	The Story of Usmilet		Sousou no Frieren Season 2 Ending Theme
129	BABYYOASOBI		A poignant love song about pure affection and wavering emotions
130	Fashion Killa♡Aee! group		Aぇ! group new song Fashion Killer
131	HIROYUKIMasato Hayashi		Masato’s new work showcases courage and passion
132	This is just fine!WEST.		An energetic uptempo track that showcases the group's evolution
133	ray Ultra Princess Kaguya! Versionkaguya (cv. Natsuyoshi Yuuko), tsukimi yachiyo (cv. Hayami Saori)		Ending theme song of a Netflix film
134	I want someone to tell me, “The moon is beautiful, isn’t it?”Kakizaki Yūta		Yuta Kakizaki’s love song is now available for streaming
135	Crashing WinnersVOLTACTION×3SKM		A VTuber collaboration track—an intense song that evokes the night before a revolution.
136	Song of dawnjo0ji		The moving songs of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen
137	XTCNakajima Kento		A powerful song that depicts the truth behind the mask
138	monologueOmoinotake		The ending theme song of the anime “The Apothecary Diaries”
139	bondKamenashi Kazuya		The moving ballad from Gokusen will be in the spotlight again in 2025.
140	favorite songfumino		Debut of an uplifting pop-rock song
141	Never Romanticnaniwa danshi		A party tune that captures the thrill of love
142	Nobody Knowsmilet		A song about finding oneself, a challenge piece for a movie theme song
143	PLAYER 1Ryokushokushakai		An uplifting song that turns a crisis into an opportunity
144	ShareYU-KI		Theme song that immerses you in the world of book thieves
145	Midnight ReflectionNOMELON NOLEMON		A grand insert song imbued with feelings for the cosmos
146	Nebula RomancePerfume		Perfume’s latest song, “Harmony of Space and Love”
147	Blue NoiseRyosuke Yamada		Ryōsuke Yamada’s Japanese-style hip-hop track, an anime theme song
148	Sorry for singing.AKASAKI		The passionate song by AKASAKI from the NEC LAVIE commercial
149	Angel SeekAdo		Ado releases new song 'Angel Seek'
150	bashfulnessHey! Say! JUMP		Hey! Say! JUMP’s love-support song
151	By the side on a moonlit nightUru		Uru writes a new song for a film’s theme
152	obsessive loveWEST.		WEST new song drama theme song
153	HARD WORKnaniwa danshi		10th single to be released in February 2026, theme song for a drama.
154	AdrenaYOASOBI		Expressing love with the high-speed sounds of school life
155	Fireworks in Augustmurasaki ima		The changing seasons and thoughts for a loved one
156	BaburinHIMEHINA		A summer song by HIMEHINA, a life that pops like bubbles
157	exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]		Anime theme song, a rousing anthem that colors a passionate world
158	Intro “Soul Quake”watson		A searing intensity that shakes the soul with real, down-to-earth words
159	LOVE 2000tsuru and kame		Movie theme song by Jutaro Yamanaka and Aloha Takamatsu
160	NON STOPHANA		A song that expresses HANA’s dream and the journey of one year
161	My PrincessROIROM		A love song lit by winter candles
162	BRAVE GROOVEiLiFE!		A fiery anime theme song that makes your body move
163	Wimarma Sagashigure ui		Shigure Ui’s genius song showdown
164	faint noseKitanitatsuya feat. BABYMETA		Masterpieces by Tatsuya Kitani and BABYMETAL
165	My respectNogizaka 46		A moving piece that portrays respect and history
166	Two People in a Fading CitySazan Ōrusutāzu		The melancholy of dusk, feelings beyond words
167	Dead Or AliveGLAY		GLAY’s powerful new song to be the theme for an anime
168	SanitizerOfisharu Higedan Dism		Message of self-growth and purification of human relationships
169	trajectoryVaundy		An epic musical and a moving depiction of Earth’s history
170	RIDEONE N’ ONLY		A tropical summer dance number
171	True LoveINI		A coming-of-age pop-rock song for a movie theme
172	LAVALAVANumber_i		A driving love song that’s both brisk and chill, transcending the suffocation of the city.
173	end creditsTakahashi Yuu		A heartwarming 15th-anniversary ballad filled with gratitude for the fans
174	MAKE IT, BREAK ITFLOW GLOW		A boundary-pushing dance number that makes your heart leap.
175	Bizarre DismantlingMURASAKI		The popular theme song of an urban-legend game
176	FakeNise Akira		Nise-Akira, Gen Hoshino’s alter ego, makes his major debut.
177	replicaVaundy		A composition of selfhood, a song of conflict and will
178	Welcome To Our Show TonightTravis Japan		Travis Japan’s swing jazz makes you forget your fatigue
179	loveUru		A song of pain and love that lingers, seeping into the heart.

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

Playlist