When it comes to anime songs, in the Showa era there were many child-oriented tracks made specifically for each anime, while in the Heisei era there were many tie-in songs that often had little to do with the anime’s storyline.
In contrast, these days there are more and more songs written for anime that have also become signature hits for the artists themselves.
This may well be because Japanese anime has gained popularity overseas.
So this time, we’ll be introducing songs that serve as theme songs for some of Japan’s most iconic anime works!
- [Popular] A compilation of anime songs that were hits in 2020
- Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
- Anime songs that get you hyped just by listening. Recommended classics and popular tracks.
- Anime songs that drew attention in 2022. [Popular Songs / Hit Songs]
- Recommended anime theme songs for children: timeless anime song classics you should listen to at least once.
- Today's Anime Songs: Carefully selected anison masterpieces that will fill you with courage when you listen!
- [Latest & Greatest] A Special Feature on Anime Songs Recommended for Teens
- Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
- Popular Anime Songs on TikTok: From Classics to the Newest Hits!
- Anime songs popular among elementary school students. Theme songs and insert songs from trending anime.
- Special Feature: Iconic Songs from Anime | Packed with Great Tracks!
- Pick up famous and popular anime songs! Along with piano solo
- Summary of Anime Songs That Were Popular in 2021 [Buzzed-About & Hit Tracks]
All-Star Artists Only! Anime Songs That Energize the Reiwa Era (1–10)
It tickles.NEW!CHiCO with HoneyWorks
Released in October as CHiCO with HoneyWorks’ 19th single, this track serves as the opening theme for the TV anime “Kimi to Koete Koi ni Naru.” Its lyrics, which candidly express the desire to reach out and the fluttering feelings that defy words, leave a strong impression.
The lines depicting a love that overflows beyond logic bring back the moment you first fell for someone.
It’s a highly recommended song for anyone who wants to rekindle those sweet and bittersweet memories of youth.
Wanna beNEW!teddyloid
Producer TeddyLoid, known for electronic music and his work on anime and game soundtracks, has created this ambitious new track as the opening theme for the TV anime “Tōjima Tanzaburō Wants to Be Kamen Rider,” airing from October 2025.
Featuring Shigeru Matsuzaki and TOPHAMHAT-KYO, the song pairs a powerful four-on-the-floor beat—channeling the fervor of a hero-struck protagonist—with razor-sharp synth leads.
In the chorus, Matsuzaki’s soaring high notes explode, sonically amplifying the series’ central theme of transformation.
A must-listen for fans of hero stories!
PlatformNEW!Uru
Singer-songwriter Uru, who has captivated many listeners with her mysterious presence.
Written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Eikyuu no Yuugure,” this piece features a light, pop-tinged ensemble that feels wonderfully comfortable.
The lyrics—conveying a message to someone dear that the essence of “love” never changes, no matter the form—are also compelling.
Set for digital release in October 2025, it’s an upbeat track whose refreshing melody gives you a gentle push forward.
Connect -season 03-NEW!ClariS
That legendary song, long celebrated as a classic of anime music, has been performed by ClariS in their new three-member formation.
It’s a self-cover of the track originally released in 2011 as the opening theme for the TV anime Puella Magi Madoka Magica.
The three-part harmonies preserve the original’s clarity while adding richer color and depth.
The lyrics, which sing of promises, hope, and resolve, perfectly match the timing of the unit’s fresh start.
I highly recommend it not only to those who were once moved by this song, but also to anyone who hasn’t heard it yet.
BlessingNEW!YOASOBI
Released in October 2022, this song drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury.
Based on Ichiro Okouchi’s original novella cradle planet, the lyrics reflect the bond between the protagonist Suletta and the Gundam Aerial.
Infused with determination for the future and a wish for coexistence, the lyrics convey a strength that says we can support each other no matter which path we choose.
The dramatic development woven by the driving sound and ikura’s clear, translucent vocals is sure to set your heart ablaze.
Featured on the album THE BOOK 3, the track peaked at No.
2 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube.
It’s an energetic number we highly recommend to fans of the Gundam series and anyone seeking a powerful, message-driven song.
Happy Yummy Lucky YummyNEW!GANG PARADE
A song released by GANG PARADE as the opening theme for the anime “Debu to Love to Ayamachi to!” The lyrics were written by Yumeno Yua, capturing the positivity and cuteness of the anime’s protagonist, Yumeko.
The track’s catchy melody and the dramatic mid-song shift keep listeners engaged, and the more you listen, the more addictive it becomes.
Give it a listen when you want to feel positive or need an energy boost.
KICK BACKKenshi Yonezu
Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who’s taken the J-pop scene by storm with his modern musicality.
His 13th single, written as the theme song for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, was born from a collaboration with Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu.
Released in October 2022, the track fuses energetic rock with elements of drum’n’bass, featuring a fast tempo and a structure that makes frequent use of key changes.
Its gritty vocals and hysteric arrangement align with the anime’s worldview and really amp up the excitement.
It’s also a surefire crowd-pleaser for year-end and New Year party entertainment.