Lovely karaoke song

A medley of crowd-pleasing classics. Iconic Japanese songs and recommended popular tracks.

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.

Doesn’t your heart feel warm with memories when you listen to a medley of nostalgic J-pop hits? Timeless masterpieces that continue to be loved are filled with special moments etched into our memories.

In this article, we’ve gathered popular Japanese songs that anyone will find themselves humming along to.

From theme songs of TV anime and dramas, to unforgettable tracks once heard on the radio, and timeless classics that still shine today, we present a collection of gems cherished across generations.

A medley of exciting classic hits. Beloved Japanese classics and recommended popular songs (21–30)

Poem of SunlightLe Couple

Hidamari no Uta / Le Couple (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

Hidamari no Uta Le Couple

It’s a classic that drew attention as an insert song in the drama “Under One Roof 2.” It’s not about heartbreak, nor is it simply lingering feelings for someone you parted with—its ineffable, poignant sentiment truly moves people.

The duo originally performed as a married couple, but, ironically like in the song, they eventually split up.

Even so, the song’s appeal is timeless.

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Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet

MAN WITH A MISSION × milet “Kizuna no Kiseki” Music Video

Kizuna no Kiseki MAN WITH A MISSION × milet

A song that fuses a traditional Japanese atmosphere with rock sound keeps your spirits high from the moment you hit play until the very end.

Born from the collaboration between MAN WITH A MISSION and milet, this track was selected as the opening theme for the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Swordsmith Village Arc.

Released in April 2023, it carries a message praising the strength to overcome hardship and the power of bonds.

Its rhythmic beat also makes it perfect as background music for everyday tasks like cleaning—your work almost seems to move in sync with the rhythm, and before you know it, your motivation is sure to rise.

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An exciting medley of classic hits. Iconic J‑Pop songs and recommended popular tracks (31–40)

My First KissReassured Dad

First Kiss: Dad’s Natural-Voice Live (Anshin Papa)

My First Kiss, Reassured Dad

It’s one of the signature songs from the anime Kiteretsu Daihyakka.

The cute vocals might throw you off, but it’s actually a full-on love song.

I’d say it’s a pure ballad about “first love,” or something very close to it.

With its single-minded affection and a touch of endearing frustration—an impression of slightly shy love—it’s a well-known classic in the anime song world.

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Snow BlossomMika Nakashima

Mika Nakashima “Yuki no Hana” MUSIC VIDEO

Snow Flower by Mika Nakashima

Although it’s a song by a woman, it’s said to be written from a man to a woman.

Still, I imagine many men would want their girlfriends to sing it, right? With Mika Nakashima’s overwhelming vocals and its heartrending melody, I think it’s one of the most memorable winter classics.

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I'll give you romanceShoko Nakagawa

Shoko✩Nakagawa I'll Give You Romance

Romantic Ageru yo Shoko Nakagawa

Originally, it should probably be the original singer, Ushio Hashimoto, but due to my personal preference, I’m introducing Shoko Nakagawa’s version.

She herself lists it as one of her favorite songs, and it seems she will continue to carry it on.

Lyrically, there may be many boys who wish to have it sung by a slightly older “big sister” type.

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I look up as I walkKyu Sakamoto

Kyu Sakamoto - Ue o Muite Arukou - Piano by Hachidai Nakamura - 'Sukiyaki' live

I Look Up as I Walk by Kyu Sakamoto

Also known as “Sukiyaki,” it’s a song that’s popular overseas as well.

Incidentally, it was the very first marching song for the Spring High School Baseball Tournament.

It’s no exaggeration to say that it’s one of Japan’s signature songs, sung continuously since the 1960s.

It has been covered by many artists both in Japan and abroad, showing how much it’s loved around the world.

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Something CertainKazumasa Oda

A Certain Thing – Kazumasa Oda

Certain Things - Kazumasa Oda

I don’t think this song needs any explanation.

Whatever our positions may be, Oda gently sings about the “love” that everyone feels.

If everyone in the world could approach “you” with the sentiment of this song, perhaps no unhappy children would be born, and no conflicts would arise.

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