【2026】A Collection of Beloved Japanese Classics Worldwide【JAPAN MUSIC】

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

In an era where music spreads across borders through platforms like YouTube and TikTok, Japanese songs are increasingly capturing the hearts of listeners around the world.

When you think of Japanese songs that are famous overseas, what tracks come to mind? From anime and game theme songs to city pop and rock praised for their distinctive musicality, and even ballads that resonate beyond language barriers, the range is truly diverse.

In this article, we’ve highlighted a wide array of Japanese songs that are currently gaining global support as popular tracks worldwide.

You’ll likely discover why international fans are so captivated by Japanese music.

Experience the expanding reach of music culture from Japan for yourself!

[2026] A Collection of Beloved Japanese Classics Worldwide [JAPAN MUSIC] (51–60)

LEFT RIGHTXG

XG – LEFT RIGHT (Official Music Video)

LEFT RIGHTXG

A song by XG, a seven-member girl group composed entirely of Japanese members.

With a powerful message themed around self-expression and freedom, it conveys the importance of believing in yourself and living true to who you are.

Included on their third single “SHOOTING STAR,” released in January 2023, the track also garnered attention for its music video themed around a space journey toward new frontiers.

It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to move forward on their own path with confidence and determination.

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PONPONPONkyarī pamyu pamyu

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu – PONPONPON , Kyary Pamyu Pamyu – PONPONPON

PONPONPONkyarī pamyu pamyu

A track by pop singer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, who has garnered worldwide support for her unique fashion sense and performances.

Released as the lead song from her debut mini-album “Moshi Moshi Harajuku,” it is also known for surpassing 100 million views on YouTube.

Its popularity is truly world-class, having topped the electro chart in Finland and reached number one in Belgium as well as making waves in Japan.

Composed by Yasutaka Nakata, this is a cute pop number packed with cutting-edge sounds.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Child of the devilHiguchi Ai

Ai Higuchi / Devil's Child (Anime Special Ver.) | Ai Higuchi “Akuma no Ko” Anime Special Ver.

Child of the devilHiguchi Ai

Ai Higuchi created the ending theme for the TV anime Attack on Titan, which carries a grand message depicting the cruelty of the world and the contradictions of humanity.

The song delves deeply into the blurred boundary between justice and evil that emerges in the extreme state of war, as well as the complexities of human psychology, all powerfully expressed through her dramatic alto voice.

Released digitally in January 2022, it was included on her March 2022 album Saiaku Saiai (Worst, Beloved).

It has resonated across borders, topping Apple Music’s J-Pop charts in 120 countries.

This is a recommended track for those who want to reflect on choices and justice in life, or experience an epic story through music.

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Dinner Songtuki.

tuki. “Banquet Song” Official Music Video

Dinner Songtuki.

A debut work by tuki.

that layers deep affection with heartrending emotion.

The gentle, uplifting sound and mystical vocals softly wrap around the listener’s heart.

Released in September 2023, the piece unfolds through a metaphor that likens love to cooking, and together with tuki.’s voice, it resonates with both the joy and sorrow of love.

It gained particular popularity overseas in South Korea.

The beautiful music video, illustrated by Posuka Demizu, also leaves a strong impression.

Despite being only 15 at the time, tuki.’s expressive power, evoking a mature sensibility, is truly noteworthy.

For those harboring complex feelings toward someone they love, this song is sure to offer solace.

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WOKE UPXG

XG – WOKE UP (Official Music Video)

WOKE UPXG

A striking track featuring an innovative sound that fuses 808 bass with East Asian flair.

It embodies XG’s signature sophistication and delivers a powerful message about self-affirmation and challenging existing norms.

All members take on rap, showcasing their individuality with distinctive flows in this ambitious piece.

Released in May 2024, it charted across various rankings, and the music video hit No.

1 on YouTube’s trending chart in the United States, earning high praise overseas.

The MV presents a sci-fi-inspired world, vividly portraying the breaking of fixed ideas.

It’s a song that encourages those who want to stay true to themselves or are ready to take a new step forward.

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