Lovely anime song

[Nostalgic & Latest] A Special Feature on Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 20s

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

Anime, a cornerstone of Japanese culture, is beloved not only by children but also by adults, and it’s highly regarded overseas too! Along with anime itself, the theme songs that play during openings and endings—known as anison—are appreciated not just in Japan but around the world.

So this time, we’ve gathered a wide selection of anison, from nostalgic tracks recommended for people in their 20s to the latest hits! You’ll find memorable songs you listened to as a child as well as popular new tracks, so be sure to read to the end! You might even find one of your favorite songs or a tune that brings back memories.

Now, let’s get started!

[Nostalgic & New] A Major Feature on Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 20s (11–20)

kaiju (giant monster)NEW!Sakanaction

Sakanaction / Kaiju -Music Video-

Kaiju NEW! Sakanaction

This is Sakanaction’s first anime tie-in song, depicting the passion and struggles of those who pursue truth.

Released in February 2025, it was chosen as the opening theme for NHK General’s “Chi: On the Movements of the Earth.” Deeply connected to the anime’s worldview, which focuses on people attempting to prove the heliocentric theory, the lyrics convey a strong will to keep seeking the truth even in darkness.

Sakanaction’s unique sound—a fusion of electronica and rock—evokes curiosity and a forward-looking mindset.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to experience that sensation of having your own common sense overturned when you encounter new knowledge.

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KICKBACKNEW!Kenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – KICKBACK

KICK BACK NEW! Kenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu, who draws attention for his genre-blurring musicality from electronica to folk, released his 13th single in November 2022 as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man—a track that sonically paints protagonist Denji’s desires and inner turmoil.

Its lyrics, where a thirst for happiness collides with the emptiness of reality, resonate with the mindset of young people trying to claw their way up from rock bottom.

The fierce drum’n’bass-infused beat and dizzying key changes are an emotional roller coaster in themselves.

With dance videos spreading across social media, it also meshes perfectly with the digitally native Gen Z audience.

It’s an impulsive rock tune for anyone craving a jolt in their everyday life.

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Battle FrontierAkina Takaya

Pocket Monsters Advanced Generation – OP 4 “Battle Frontier” | v2 (Creditless) [LQ]

Akina Takaya of the Battle Frontier

This is a track that truly resonates, featuring Akina Takaya’s powerful vocals that opened the anime Pokémon: Advanced Generation.

It’s not just relentlessly upbeat; the lyrics convey a sense of resolve to face any hardship, carrying the oath shared with friends close to heart.

The warped guitar sound in the intro and the rhythmic phrasing that heightens the excitement of battles are especially striking! Released in July 2005, the song accompanied episodes 135 through 165 of the anime and was also tied in with the movie Lucario and the Mystery of Mew.

It vividly brings to mind intense showdowns with rivals and the protagonists charging toward their goals.

Perfect for times when you want to fire yourself up.

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lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

TV anime “Oblivion Battery” Non-Credit Opening Video | Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac”

Lilac - Mrs. GREEN APPLE

This song delves into themes of youthful brilliance and bitterness, growth, and self-acceptance.

Released by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE in April 2024, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oblivion Battery.” Crafted in a guitar-rock style, it was produced with the intention of returning to the band’s roots.

The track skillfully portrays the complex emotions of adolescence, offering a message that resonates with listeners.

It won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards, marking the band’s remarkable second consecutive victory.

This is a must-listen for adults reflecting on their youth as well as young people currently in the midst of it.

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ODDTAXINEW!Skirt and PUNPEE

Skirt and PUNPEE “ODDTAXI” Official Music Video (Opening Theme of the TV Anime ‘ODDTAXI’)

ODDTAXI NEW! Skirt and PUNPEE

This track has a captivating, floating sensation—like gazing at the underside of the city through a taxi window.

It carefully paints often-overlooked scenery with delicate melodies and rap.

Released in April 2021 as the opening theme for the anime Oddtaxi, it drew attention for its specially illustrated cover art and music video by the anime’s director, Baku Kinoshita.

It’s an emotional city-pop tune that gently accompanies you on commutes, late-night drives, or whenever you want to cherish some time alone.

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IRIS OUTNEW!Kenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – IRIS OUT

IRIS out now! Kenshi Yonezu

This is a track whose overwhelming sense of speed and dramatic development will hit you right in the heart.

Written by Kenshi Yonezu as the theme song for the film “Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc,” it will be released to coincide with the movie’s premiere in September 2025.

It marks their second collaboration, following the anime’s theme song “KICK BACK.” Yonezu has shared in production anecdotes that he composed while constantly looking at the manga pages featuring Reze, which really conveys his deep affection for the character.

The powerful rhythms that color the intense battle scenes and the sound that heightens the thrilling story are especially striking.

Highly recommended for those who want to get hyped before watching the movie or for fans of anime songs.

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[Nostalgic & New] A Big Special on Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 20s (21–30)

The seasons die one after another.amazarashi

amazarashi “Seasons Die One After Another” — Tokyo Ghoul √A ending theme

Seasons die one after another — amazarashi

amazarashi has produced many songs that pierce the human heart.

This work is their major-label debut single, released in February 2015, and it was used as the ending theme for the anime Tokyo Ghoul √A.

It’s a powerful track that sings of life’s impermanence and hope through the changing seasons.

Akita’s distinctive vocals and the profound lyrics resonate deeply.

Carrying messages of parting with the past and hope for the future, it’s a song that speaks to listeners’ hearts and makes you reflect on the meaning of living.

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