[2025] Recommended for New Year’s Eve Karaoke! A roundup of popular and hit Japanese songs
This is a must-read for anyone planning to hit karaoke at year-end parties like bōnenkai to wrap up the year! This time, under the theme “Japanese songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke on New Year’s Eve,” we’re showcasing a rich selection of timeless hits spanning the Shōwa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras.
In addition to the classic karaoke favorites, the lineup centers on songs you’ll especially want to sing on New Year’s Eve—tracks themed around the occasion and those famous numbers performed on Kōhaku—so there’s something everyone can enjoy, regardless of generation.
Be sure to check it out!
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[2025] Recommended for New Year’s Eve karaoke! A roundup of popular and hit Japanese songs (11–20)
CharismaxSnow Man
An addictive dance tune that modernizes and elevates the 1990s craze, para para.
Snow Man’s “Charismax,” released in August 2025, impresses with a relentless rap riding over a fast beat, fused with a catchy, unforgettable melody.
The lyrics carry a powerful message about freeing yourself and awakening the charisma everyone holds within.
Just listening makes your hidden energy surge.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to boost your confidence.
December 31NMB48
A song that portrays the loneliness of spending New Year’s Eve alone and the resolve for the year ahead.
Included on NMB48’s “Teppen Totta nde!” and released in February 2013, this track has left a deep impression on fans.
Vivid scenes of ringing temple bells, a phone call with one’s mother, and eating oden alone on New Year’s Eve evoke strong empathy in listeners.
Carrying past humiliations and frustrations in one’s heart, the lyrics express a firm determination to keep striving until the day everyone can smile—perfect for anyone who wants to reflect on themselves before the new year.
Sing it at karaoke, and it will surely strengthen the bond with your friends.
Christmas songNon
Set on a street corner wrapped in winter’s chill, this song leaves a striking impression with a warmth that gently embraces sudden feelings of loneliness.
Carried by the soft tones of an acoustic guitar, words penned by Non herself tenderly reach the listener’s heart.
Released as a digital-only single in December 2019, it paints the special season of Christmas as its backdrop while singing about the importance of finding joy in everyday life and cherishing bonds with loved ones.
The music video incorporates footage from her childhood, reflecting a desire to share pure, simple fun with viewers.
It’s a perfect track for those feeling year-end melancholy or for anyone who wants to treasure moments spent with someone special.
waiting in vaingood-for-nothing
This song, which portrays a bittersweet love, is marked by Ninjin-san’s fragile, evocative vocals.
The lyrics, expressing the complexities of romantic feelings, are sure to resonate with many listeners.
Released in October 2021, the track is regarded as one of Rokudenashi’s signature works.
Written, composed, and arranged by Ninjin-san, it achieves a unique sound with emotional depth.
Its experimental approach transcends genre boundaries, giving it a special place in their discography.
It’s perfect for those troubled by love or carrying a tender ache in their hearts.
Sing it at karaoke, and it will surely become an unforgettable memory.
North Wind ~May It Reach You~Noriyuki Makihara
This is a winter ballad released by Noriyuki Makihara in 1992.
It’s known as a Sapporo Beer commercial song.
It begins with an intro that carries a somewhat nostalgic atmosphere, and the melody woven by Mackey’s characteristically gentle vocals is striking.
It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to in the cold season.
The lyrics skillfully depict winter scenes and delicately express the wistful feelings for a loved one.
If you sing this song in front of someone special on New Year’s Eve, it will surely put them in a good mood!
New Year’s March!Nijigasaki High School Idol Club
A track released in January 2024 by the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club, featuring an upbeat sound that pleasantly resonates like a celebration of the New Year’s dawn.
With its bright, pop atmosphere and forward-looking lyrics, it vividly portrays the joy of the changing seasons from January through December.
Announced as a collaboration single with the smartphone game “Love Live! School Idol Festival 2 MIRACLE LIVE!,” it reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The powerful phrase “Let’s go! Let’s take the first step!” leaves a strong impression, expressing a hopeful spirit for the year ahead.
It’s a perfect pick for those looking to amp up a New Year’s Eve countdown party or New Year’s gathering.
[2025] Recommended for New Year’s Eve karaoke! A roundup of popular and hit Japanese songs (21–30)
29Kana Nishino
It’s a memorable song featuring Kana Nishino’s relatable, true-to-life lyrics that depict the feelings of a woman entering her final year in her twenties.
The track is included on the best-of album Love Collection 2 ~mint~, released in November 2018.
In keeping with the album’s title, the lyrics characteristically look back on refreshing, youthful memories.
In the music video, Nishino appears in three different situations, showing a free-spirited expression that’s so typical of one’s twenties.
It’s the perfect song to sing at year-end parties with those about to enter their thirties—guaranteed to get everyone excited!