Popular Japanese pop karaoke. Latest rankings [2025]

To Those Who Know the Blue of the SkyAimyon71rank/position

Aimyon – A Person Who Knows the Blue of the Sky [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This is one of Aimyon’s signature songs, known for its beautiful lyrics that feel like a snapshot from a youthful chapter.

It’s a heartfelt ballad that soaks in with a bittersweet mood as the singer looks back on memories with a lover under a clear blue sky.

Released in October 2019, it was also used as the theme song for an animated film of the same title.

Aimyon’s uniquely delicate sensibility blends perfectly with a striking, lush string arrangement.

It’s an ideal pick for teenage girls who want to enjoy a comfortable time at karaoke.

With a medium tempo that’s easy to sing, it’s great for fun moments with friends and also recommended for quietly singing on your own.

frecklesJUDY AND MARY72rank/position

Freckles – JUDY AND MARY (Full)

Known as one of JUDY AND MARY’s signature songs, this track was released in February 1996.

It was also used as the theme song for the anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.

YUKI’s clear, soaring vocals and the catchy melody make a strong impression.

While depicting the complex feelings after a heartbreak, the lyrics still convey a positive outlook, which is part of their appeal.

It’s sure to be a hit at year-end and New Year parties’ karaoke! With a tempo that’s easy for all age groups to enjoy, it should be an easy pick for company gatherings as well.

Let’s all sing it out with energy and brighten the start of the new year!

balladKetsumeishi73rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

A love ballad from Ketsumeishi that offers a different flavor from their usual cheerful image.

It’s a tear-jerker that gently yet poignantly sings of unfulfilled feelings for someone special, carried by a tender, aching melody.

With rap kept to a minimum and piano and strings that seep into the heart, this piece also surprised longtime fans as a bold departure.

Released in January 2011 as one half of a double A-side single and included on the classic album Ketsunopolis 7, it was also used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s information program Sukkiri!!.

If you sing it softly at karaoke—where upbeat tracks usually steal the show—its contrast will draw everyone in.

Why not showcase a new side of yourself with this hidden gem?

Don't go.Souta74rank/position

Uta-nee Yuki “Don’t Go” (remaster)

This is one of Sota’s signature songs, depicting a heartrending moment of parting.

The protagonist’s plea—“Please don’t go”—sinks into the heart alongside the sound of the piano.

Released in October 2013, the track is included on the album “Shonen Shoujo no Kotoba.” It’s a song that stays close to those who carry the fear of losing someone important or the weight of loneliness.

If you’ve had such experiences, you might find yourself in tears while singing it.

Sing it with all your heart.

peace signKenshi Yonezu75rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

This is a song by Kenshi Yonezu that stirs the heart with its powerful vocals and exhilarating sound.

Produced in June 2017 as the opening theme for the first cour of Season 2 of the Yomiuri TV–affiliated anime “My Hero Academia,” it resonates with the desire to become stronger on nights spent crying over one’s own inadequacy, and with the resolve to become a hero to protect someone important.

The contrast between high and low registers carefully expresses emotional shifts, so when singing, it’s best to pay attention not only to pitch but also to dynamics and phrasing.

DESIREAkina Nakamori76rank/position

DESIRE -jounetsu-

This is one of Akina Nakamori’s signature songs, themed around burning love and singing of fiery passion.

First aired in February 1986 as a TV commercial song, it was later released as a single and became a huge hit.

With this song, Nakamori won the Japan Record Award for the second consecutive year, establishing her status as a singer at the young age of 20.

Showcasing dramatic expressiveness and powerful vocals, this track is perfect for livening up a karaoke session or when you want to experience a classic from the Showa era.

Be sure to check out the modern twist on traditional Japanese attire and the unique choreography, said to be inspired by a baseball pitching motion.

Spot the differenceMasaki Suda77rank/position

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

This is one of Masaki Suda’s signature songs, written, composed, and produced by Kenshi Yonezu.

It’s a heartwarming track with an encouraging message: life isn’t always about having the right answers—its value lies in all the mistakes we make.

It carefully portrays a shift from self-denial to self-acceptance through meeting someone important, making it highly relatable.

Released in May 2019, the song was chosen as the theme for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “Perfect World” and is also included on the album “LOVE.” It’s perfect for times when you want to reflect on yourself or belt out your feelings at karaoke—singing it at full volume can leave you feeling refreshed.