[Latest/Trending] A roundup of popular Japanese songs among teens and people in their 20s

bargain saleMasanori Onda

"Bargain Sale" / Masanori Onda

An impactful song where a heart-stopping theme is delivered through a sweet, bittersweet voice.

It’s a work by Masanori Onda, a young singer-songwriter from Kyoto Prefecture, released digitally in April 2024.

Shared on social media and YouTube, it has captured the hearts of younger listeners.

The lyrics, laced with irony toward modern society, ride over an urban sound that conveys a hunger for love, deepening the sense of longing.

With its catchy, stylish vibe intact, it’s a track you’ll want to play on nights spent alone.

It’s sure to resonate with anyone feeling lost in their romantic emotions.

IllusionMY FIRST STORY × HYDE

MY FIRST STORY × HYDE – “MUGEN” (from Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba”) Official Music Video

Released in June 2024 as the opening theme for the Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc anime, this track marks the first collaboration between MY FIRST STORY and HYDE.

While embracing profound themes such as eternity, life, and fate, it deftly portrays the protagonist’s inner turmoil at the boundary between dreams and reality.

Driven by a rock-based, fast-paced melody, the powerful vocals of MY FIRST STORY’s Hiro and HYDE blend seamlessly, resulting in a work rich in emotional expression.

Its strong affinity with the visuals creates a thrilling synergy with the anime’s world that stirs the heart.

It’s a perfect song to sing with full emotion at karaoke—highly recommended not just for rock fans, but for anime fans as well.

I don't need the correct answer.Nanawo Akari

No need for the right answer / Nanawo Akari

Set to powerful guitar rock, it delivers a message that truly resonates.

This track, released by Akari Nanawo in April 2024 as her seventh single, was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime “Sentai Daishikkaku” (Go! Go! Loser Ranger!).

It sings about the importance of living true to yourself, free from society’s constraints.

The question “What is justice?” also leaves a strong impression.

It’s sure to give courage to anyone trying to keep moving forward despite their struggles.

Give it a listen when you’re searching for your own path.

Kid-Adult HeroShinako, Takepara, Riapi (Harajuku Heroes)

[MV] Kid-Adult Hero / Shinako, Takepara, Riapyi (Harajuku Heroes)

A pop tune created by a trio of artists who embody Harajuku culture! Released in April 2025, it features a bright sound that fuses electropop and J-pop.

The track spread mainly across social media and became a hot topic among younger audiences on TikTok and Instagram.

The lyrics celebrate the importance of pursuing your dreams and the beauty of holding on to the pure feelings you had as a child.

It’s the perfect song for times when you want to push yourself harder or need a boost of energy!

HERELANA

LANA – HERE (Official Music Video)

This is a dreamlike message song that stands out for its husky vocal work.

It’s a track by LANA, a rapper from Shonan who has captured the hearts of Gen Z, released in 2025.

Rooted in hip-hop and R&B yet transcending genre boundaries, its free-spirited musicality is captivating.

LANA’s lyrics—brimming with raw, relatable emotion—pair perfectly with her delicate flow.

Even while carrying failure and loneliness, the song’s forward-looking stance will give you a gentle push.

Bunny GirlAKASAKI

[AKASAKI] Bunny Girl (Lyric Video)

AKASAKI’s track “Bunny Girl” became a viral hit on platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts, gaining nationwide popularity.

Among men in their 20s, there are probably very few who haven’t heard it.

Despite its popularity, the song actually boasts one of the narrowest vocal ranges in Japanese music.

Perhaps because the vocal line is also quite simple, it’s very easy to follow the pitch—there aren’t even any long notes or ad-libs—so as long as you match the pitch, scoring over 90 is easily within reach.

IIIHoushou Marine & Kobo Kanaeru

[Original Anime MV] III [hololive/ Houshou Marine & Kobo Kanaeru]

An EDM track titled “III,” a collaboration between hololive VTubers Houshou Marine and Kobo Kanaeru.

Released in May 2024, it was written and composed by Giga, the renowned composer also famous as a Vocaloid producer.

It’s a highly sophisticated electronic tune that can be cute at times, mature at others, and even thrillingly cool.

The lively rhythm blends seamlessly with the two singers’ expressive vocals.

Just as the lyrics say, it’s an addictive song that you won’t be able to take your eyes—or ears—off!