[2026] Must-listen! This Year's Best Japanese Hit Songs

OrionNEW!YOASOBI

Orion

An electrifying electropop track by the music duo YOASOBI, brimming with a sense of scale and speed that evokes the starry night sky.

This song is a moving piece that portrays the relationship of two people who, despite passing each other by, are bound together by fate.

Included on the limited first edition album THE BOOK for, released in June 2026, it was created as a collaboration song with the globally beloved action game Overwatch.

Ayase’s meticulously crafted soundscape and ikura’s translucent vocals are a perfect match.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play when you feel like facing forward and breaking into a run.

Unfading FireworksNEW!timelesz

timelesz "Unfading Fireworks" (YouTube ver.)

A bittersweet yet warm pop ballad that layers the fleeting beauty of summer-night fireworks with indelible memories spent with someone special.

Released as a single in July 2026, it was chosen as the theme song for the animated film “You, Fireworks, and Our Promise,” starring Shori Sato, and carries a gentle lyricism that closely accompanies the story.

Its beautiful melody and soft vocals slowly seep into the heart, making it a truly affecting love song.

Why not listen to it while feeling the night breeze at summer’s end?

Blue Shining StarNEW!Aina ji Endo

AiNA THE END / Blue Shining Star [Official Music Video] (TV Anime ‘ONE PIECE HEROINES’ Theme Song)

This track captivates with a sound that rockets forward from an intro reminiscent of a tranquil starry sky.

Its themes are the inner radiance that lights your way in the dark and the resolve to break through hardship.

Released in July 2026, it was chosen as the theme song for the TV anime ONE PIECE HEROINES.

Aina wrote and composed the song herself.

It’s a companion for those moments when, despite doubts and fears, you’re determined to press on with strength along your own path.

MissingNEW!BE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Missing -Music Video- (Story ver.)

This track, featuring a world-renowned producer, is defined by its translucent, airy sound.

It’s an EDM number that subtly conveys the lingering regret of losing someone dear.

Included on the single released in July 2026, it was produced as the second installment of a project leading up to the group’s 5th anniversary.

Its soothing rhythm lets you sink into your feelings—why not listen on a night when you want to look back on the past? I’m sure it will pierce your heart.

Cute queue-taiNEW!CUTIE STREET

[MV] CUTIE STREET "Cute Queue-tai"

CUTIE STREET, born from the idol project produced by ASOBISYSTEM.

This song, the title track of the double A-side single “Cute na Cue-tai / Nice da ne,” released in May 2026, was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime Pokémon.

The title is a wordplay combining “sphere” (kyūtai) and “cute,” aligning with the world of Pokémon while showcasing the group’s bright, poppy vibe.

Its sound design evokes adventure and new encounters, perfectly matched with an adorable melody line.

It’s approachable for everyone from kids to adults, and it’s a track you’ll want to play when you’re looking to feel that bubbly excitement.

You are an urban legend.NEW!BUDDiiS

BUDDiiS “You’re an Urban Legend” Official Music Video

BUDDiiS is a DIY-style dance-vocal group born in the Reiwa era.

Released in July 2026, their major-label debut single’s lead track is a summer tune themed around Heisei nostalgia and midsummer youth.

It portrays an over-the-top love that transcends common sense and time, leaving an impression with its bright dance-pop sound and call-and-response shouts.

It blends their signature mix of humor and freshness.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play while driving along the beach in the height of summer.

So StrawberryNEW!MAZZEL

MAZZEL / So Strawberry -Music Video-

MAZZEL is a dance and vocal group under BMSG, led by CEO SKY-HI, known for their powerful expressiveness and growing popularity.

Released in June 2026 to coincide with their nationwide arena tour, this track is a summer tune that paints a picture of a thrilling romance with Latin-flavored beats and sultry vocals.

Many listeners will likely find themselves captivated by the lyrics that portray sweet, dangerous temptation.

It’s perfect for enjoying a summer drive in the heat or for lifting your mood with a passionate dance number.