[2026] Japanese songs to listen to when you're in love: A collection of J-pop classics

determinationCENT

CENT / Determination [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

CENT’s “Kesshin” is the solo project track by former BiSH member Cent Chihiro Chitti.

Featured on the 2023 album “PER→CENT→AGE,” the song has lyrics written by Chitti and music composed by Mineta Kazunobu of Ging Nang Boyz.

The lyrics capture the feeling of being in love in a poppy, cute, and grand way that really grabs your heart.

Complementing that sparkling lyrical world is a sound that combines pop sensibility with exhilarating drive.

Listening to it makes you want to fall in love.

And if you’re doing a shiritori game at karaoke with someone you like and it’s your turn on “ke,” why not pick this song?

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SAKI

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I like youChilli Beans.

I like you

Chilli Beans.

are a three-piece rock band whose Western-influenced songwriting and performances, paired with an exquisitely cute vibe, have won over fans.

Their digital single “I like you,” released on October 11, 2023, was selected as the theme song for the TV drama “Toki o Kakeru na, Koibitotachi” (Don’t Leap Through Time, Lovers).

The message—embracing everything about the one you love—conveys a fleeting yet powerful resolve that affirms your own feelings.

It’s a simple yet persuasive number, with airy melodies and arrangements that feel wonderfully soothing.

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Hoshino Takashi

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I want to be your boyfriend.Cody Rī (Ri)

Cody・Lee (Li) – I Want to Be Your Boyfriend (Music Video)

Here’s a pop number that sings of sweet young love.

It’s a track by Cody・Lee (Li), released in November 2024.

Positioned as the concluding chapter to the album “Last First Love,” this song features catchy melodies and a breezy rhythm, with lyrics that reflect unwavering devotion.

Blending elements of indie pop and rock while retaining the accessibility of J‑POP, it’s a polished piece that’s sure to lift your romantic mood.

Be sure to give it a listen.

Fuzzy NavelConton Candy

Conton Candy – Fuzzy Navel [Official Video]

Some of you might find that, even knowing it’s a lost cause, you still can’t give up.

Capturing that feeling with a refreshing touch is the song “Fuzzy Navel.” It’s a track released by the next-generation rock band Conton Candy, and it’s also known for going viral on TikTok.

In the song, love is likened to a sweet yet slightly bitter fuzzy navel, and that metaphor contributes to the song’s fresh, uplifting vibe.

As you listen, pay special attention to the resolve expressed at the very end.

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yamamoto

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Answer keyJUJU

JUJU “Answer Check” Music Video (with Lyrics)

JUJU, renowned worldwide for her powerful vocals, is often associated with jazz and cool, sophisticated tracks.

That’s why I’d like to introduce Kotoeawase, a song that warms the heart.

This piece was written as the theme song for the drama Love is Blind! Yanki-kun to Shirotsue Girl.

It brightly conveys the heroine’s feelings of happiness in the show.

You can enjoy it on its own, but knowing the story will help you connect with it even more.

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yamamoto

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HEARTKing&Prince

King & Prince「HEART」MV Short Clip

A hopeful, heartfelt vocal shines through in this classic love song.

Released in March 2025 as the group’s 16th single in four formats, it served as the theme song for the drama “Falling for the Heir Is Way Too Hard,” starring Ren Nagase, enriching the show’s world.

With a fresh, catchy sound layered with warm lyrics that capture the thrill of falling in love, the track gently wraps the listener’s heart.

It’s a song that offers courage and energy to those struggling with love or wanting to convey their feelings to someone special!

koi-wazuraiKing&Prince

King & Prince「koi-wazurai」MV YouTube Edit

Although it’s written in the Latin alphabet, let me introduce “koi-wazurai,” which properly begins with the sound “ko.” This song was created by King & Prince as the theme for the film Kaguya-sama: Love Is War.

The movie centers on romantic mind games, and the song likewise focuses on the exchanges between a man and a woman.

At the same time, it clearly conveys the affection underlying those interactions.

That depth of flavor is one of the work’s charms.

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yamamoto

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