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

So in love I’m gonna perish!NEW!M!LK

M!LK – So in love it’s devastating! (Official Music Video)

When it comes to an up-tempo tune that sings of a love so intense it feels like it might explode, look no further than M!LK, the dance and vocal group that captivates fans with their shape-shifting performances.

Released digitally in October 2025, this track was crafted to put a dazzling cap on their 10th anniversary year.

It portrays a fierce emotion so overwhelming that it feels like you might vanish entirely under the weight of your feelings for the other person, while its playful wordplay and catchy melody stick in your ears.

The sound also weaves in call-and-response parts designed for live unity, guaranteed to lift your spirits just by listening.

Give it a spin when you’re brimming with indescribable butterflies or when you want to feel the joy of love with your whole body.

Love WindNEW!Ikuta Rira

Lila Ikuta “Koikaze” Official Music Video

Singer-songwriter Rira Ikuta, whose crystal-clear voice captivates many and who also shines as the vocalist of YOASOBI.

This song was written in April 2025 as the theme for ABEMA’s dating reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.

New Zealand Edition.” It delicately portrays the bewilderment and anticipation unique to the beginning of love, as well as the pure feelings that make your heart race just by thinking of the other person.

This is her third time handling the theme song for the series, and the lyrics—closely aligned with the show’s worldview—resonated with many listeners.

The refreshing melody line, evocative of the arrival of spring, will give you the courage to take a new step forward.

It’s a heartwarming number you’ll want to listen to when you want to be honest about your feelings of love or while thinking of someone special.

Kiss Kiss KissNEW!AKASAKI

【AKASAKI】Kiss Kiss Kiss (Lyric Video)

AKASAKI is a teenage singer-songwriter whose 2024 release “Bunny Girl” has surpassed 100 million streams, capturing the hearts of her generation with down-to-earth lyrics and melodies.

This track, her 15th single, released digitally in August 2025, was written as the campaign song for hoyu’s Beautylabo “TryAndColor project.” Its lyrics depict how changing one’s hair color sparks confidence and brings a crush into vivid color—something anyone who wants to look cute for someone they like can relate to.

With a driving beat and irresistibly catchy hooks that stick in your head, it’s a pop tune that gently gives a nudge to those in love.

absorbed; engrossed; infatuated; crazy aboutNEW!BE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Muchuu -Recording Video- (Theme song for Fuji TV Thursday Drama 'Calm by the Waves, A Married Couple's Fine Day')

This song features a warm, gospel-based sound that gently wraps around the flutter of a heart in love.

Its straightforward, pure affection—making you want to call your partner’s name over and over—resonates deeply.

It’s included on BE:FIRST’s single “GRIT,” released in May 2025, and was written as the theme song for the drama “Nami Uraraka ni, Meoto Biyori.” Produced with contributions from SKY-HI, eill, and others, the track portrays a relationship that cherishes a bond beyond words.

It’s a number you’ll want to listen to in those moments when the everyday life you share with your lover feels especially precious.

Let their soothing vocals wash over you as you think of your beloved partner.

LoveTreNEW!CUTIE STREET

【MV】CUTIE STREET 'Love Training'

CUTIE STREET is an idol group themed around “KAWAII” that enjoys overwhelming support from their generation.

Their 4th single, “Love Train,” released digitally in February 2025, leaves a strong impression with its worldview that likens rapidly accelerating feelings of love to a speeding train.

The song first premiered at their one-man live in December 2024, where it immediately became a hot topic, and it was subsequently recorded and released in response to fans’ expectations.

The lyrics capture the thrill of heading to a meeting spot and the emotional ups and downs over rumors about a crush—experiences that anyone in the midst of love will surely relate to.

It’s an energetic pop number with a brisk rhythm and catchy melody that makes your heart dance.

TRUE LOVENEW!Snow Man

Snow Man ‘TRUE LOVE’ Music Video

You find yourself suddenly captivated by the person you’re meeting—there’s a heartwarming sense of everyday happiness in that moment, filled with gratitude for the one by your side.

It’s a track by Snow Man, the dance-performance powerhouse, included as the lead song on their fifth album, “Onko Chishin,” released in November 2025.

The bright, classic J-pop sound feels delightful, and the chorus where all nine voices come together is absolutely stunning.

It also drew attention for having lyrics written by Kaori Moriwaka.

With the MV surpassing one million views in less than half a day after its release, that surge of euphoria makes perfect sense.

When you wish for an unchanging future with your partner, this song is sure to resonate gently.

proposal (marriage proposal)NEW!natori

natori – Propose

Singer-songwriter Natori, who rapidly expanded their following from internet-based activities and single-handedly handles everything from songwriting and composition to arrangement.

Released digitally in June 2025, this track leaves both ears and eyes lingering on its sprightly beat and subtly ominous visual world.

Despite the title’s happy ring, the lyrics portray self-denial and anxiety born of love—something many facing the unvarnished realities of romance may find deeply relatable.

It’s also included on the album “Shinkai,” released in January 2026, and drew attention for being unveiled early during the spring 2025 tour.

Give this love song a listen—one that touches the pain hidden within its sweetness.