[2026] Japanese music that sings wishes: A collection of J-POP masterpieces
Everyone, no matter the scale, has wishes—ranging from those so important they can shape a life to the small, everyday kind.
There are, of course, countless songs that sing about such natural feelings.
In this article, we’ve compiled classic Japanese songs centered on the theme of “wishes.” Focusing on songs with words like “wish” in the title, we introduce tracks—spanning from recent hits to timeless classics—that take some kind of wish as their theme.
What kind of “wish” does each artist sing about? Check them out while reflecting on your own wishes.
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[2026] Japanese music that sings wishes: A compilation of J‑POP masterpieces (21–30)
Always With MeKimura Yumi
Always With Me was released to the world as the theme song of a Studio Ghibli film.
Life is born and fades, born and fades again and again, yet without end it has been and will continue to be connected.
That’s why the present can shine so brightly—and does shine.
Rather than searching for what we lack, let’s cherish the now.
This is a song imbued with that wish.
Every girlToukyou Jihen
No matter how old a woman gets, there’s always a bit of “girl” in her, and she can dream anytime.
Will you let me be that kind of me when I’m with you? I can even use magic—“Every Girl Can,” a song that weaves such feelings and wishes.
Shiina Ringo performed it at Kōhaku, and it became a hot topic for her signature, stage-ready production.
Island SongTHE BOOM
The Boom’s “Shima Uta” inherits the musical characteristics of Okinawan folk music.
It sings of the island’s song riding on the wind that blows through Okinawa, reaching everyone.
This piece carries a deep wish for peace, anti-war sentiment, and the resolve that the sorrow of the past must never be repeated.
loveUru
Singer-songwriter Uru, who continues to captivate many listeners with her mysterious presence and embracing voice.
Released in November 2025, her 16th single “Platform” includes this track as a B-side, whose acoustic resonance and use of space create an ensemble that sinks deep into the heart.
The lyrics, which find love beyond anxiety and loneliness, will resonate with anyone who knows their own fragility.
It’s a gem of a ballad, with a tender, comforting vocal that gently seeps in.
I want to protect youMatsutōya Yumi
Yuming’s “Mamotte Agetai” is a masterpiece among masterpieces, covered by many artists and influencing countless others.
I want to rush to your side when you’re feeling down and cheer you up.
I want to protect you, who are doing your best.
It’s a song filled with those wishes.
No.1Nishino Kana
Swaying feelings and an unstoppable longing.
Feelings I can’t fully put into words.
I’m falling more and more in love, but will it stay unrequited forever? Ah, but I want to be your number one… These are the sentiments and wishes woven into Kana Nishino’s “No.
1.”
Scent of a DreamNogizaka 46
“Yume no Nioi,” included on the 40th single “Biryani” released in November 2025, is a graduation solo song performed by 3rd-generation member Shiori Kubo.
Its gentle melody and her clear, translucent vocals convey her resolve to leave the group and move forward on a new path.
It also fulfills the words she exchanged with fans around 2017—“A solo song in eight years?”—an episode that alone is enough to stir the heart.
It’s a warm ballad that quietly supports those standing at a crossroads in life.