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

BiryaniNEW!Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Biryani” Music Video

Nogizaka46 is a beloved national idol group created under the production of Yasushi Akimoto.

Their 40th single, released on November 26, 2025, is an uptempo dance track that portrays the freshness of first love.

This release marks the first time 6th-gen members Shizuki Setoguchi and Moeka Yada have been selected as centers, and the lyrics—comparing the rising feelings of love to the aroma of layered spices—leave a strong impression.

The music video, directed by Yichuan Wang, depicts a mysterious, almost magical world, making it a visual treat as well.

It’s recommended for those who want to savor the sweet-and-sour thrill of unrequited love or those looking for the courage to take a step forward.

With its upbeat, spicy sound that feels so good, it’s a pop tune that lifts your spirits the moment you press play.

The grass is greener next door.Penthouse

Penthouse – The Neighbor's Love Is Blue [Official Music Video] (Theme song for the ABEMA original romance reality show 'The Neighbor's Love Looks Bluer - Chapter TOKYO -')

This is a song by Penthouse, written as the theme for ABEMA’s romance reality show “The Grass Is Greener Next Door -Chapter TOKYO-.” Released digitally in November 2025 as their fourth digital single of the year, the track’s appeal lies in its palpable tension that mirrors the show’s drama of conflict and choice.

It portrays the wavering psyche in love between reason and emotion through a tight beat and the intensity of twin vocals.

A perfect fit for a thrilling, fast-unfolding love story!

Now, the moon is waxing≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / “Now, the Moon Is Full” [Full MV] Nationwide Tour 2025 Theme Song

≒JOY is an idol group that has been on a remarkable run since their debut in January 2024.

Released digitally in August 2025, this song is a love ballad that sings of pure feelings for someone special.

In fact, it’s a cover of a track that Ms.

Sashihara once wrote for HKT48.

The refreshing sound arrangement evokes the image of a star-studded night sky.

It’s the perfect dose of idol pop for when you want to immerse yourself in single-minded love.

One thing I want to ask youSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO "One Thing I Want to Ask You"

It’s an adorable unrequited-love song that captures feelings for someone whose name you don’t even know.

Released by SHISHAMO in June 2025, it stands out not only for the music but also because vocalist Asako Miyazaki plays the heroine in the music video.

The lyrics distill a pure desire to know everything about the other person, and together with the warm musical tone, it’s sure to make your heart flutter.

If you’re in the midst of a crush right now, you might find it incredibly relatable.

First lovematsumura kanau

First Love – Kanau Matsumura [Official Music Video]

This is a song by Kanau Matsumura that’s packed with the sweet-and-sour feelings and frustrations of thinking about someone you like—the full spectrum of first love.

Released in June 2025, it’s a track that could be called the essence of his artistry.

The growing feelings for someone you can only meet in your dreams, the bittersweet longing that makes you take the long way home—listeners may find these emotions overlap with their own experiences.

When you like someone but can’t see them, even small things can make you anxious.

This gentle voice might softly stay by the side of that wavering heart.

A heart tied with a ribbonNEW!Kaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru - Ribbon-Wrapped Feelings of Love (Music Video)

Tying a ribbon around a budding crush, hoping that one day you’ll notice me… This work by Kaneyori Masaru, a three-piece rock band based in Osaka, paints a tender, adorable scene of unrequited love.

The words spun by vocalist Mina Chitose vividly capture the complex heart of a young woman—polishing herself in the earnest hope of being liked, while fear and anticipation mingle over revealing her true self.

Released in November 2025, it also sparked major buzz with its music video featuring influencer Aoi Nagase.

Further refined after the album “To Those of Us Who Don’t Live Yesterday,” the band’s sound is sure to gently nudge listeners forward.

It’s a number I hope you’ll lend an ear to if you believe “this is my last love” and want to must er the courage to take that first step.

love10NEW!Hama iku

Hamaiku – love10 [MV]

Hamaiku is a duo consisting of Ryuichi Hamaya and Erika Ikuta, the MCs of NHK General’s music program “Venue101.” Released in April 2025, this work is their long-awaited second single following their debut track “Beat DE Tohi.” With Yaffle as producer and lyrics by Furui Riho, the sound blends sophistication with a warm, human touch.

When it was first unveiled at the program’s event in October 2024, the two performed on guitar, which drew additional attention.

This love song, filled with the joy of holding the hand of someone you adore and a pure belief in the future, seems perfect for anyone wishing for their “last love.” It’s a heartwarming number you’ll want to relax with on a leisurely afternoon, together with someone special.