20 Japanese Hit Songs (2020-2024) from a Local Perspective

Reflecting on Japan’s Hit Songs Since 2020

In this article, I’ll introduce 20 hit songs from Japan (2020-2024), carefully selected based on streaming milestones and my personal judgment. The criteria? Songs with over 10 million plays on YouTube or Spotify—or those close to reaching that number. While this threshold is modest, I’ve intentionally excluded tracks with over 100 million plays to avoid overly obvious mega-hits that dominate J-pop charts.

This selection reflects my own musical tastes as a Japanese living in Japan, so if you’re okay with that, please enjoy reading to the end! To make it easier to explore these tracks, I’ve included a Spotify playlist featuring all 20 songs, which are introduced in reverse chronological order. Whether you’re looking for lesser-known gems or curious about Japan’s streaming trends, this list offers a unique take on the music landscape of the 2020s.

1. Kenshi Yonezu – Azalea

Release Date: November 18, 2024
Featured Song In: Netflix drama Beyond Goodbye (Sayonara no Tsuzuki)

This song is one of my absolute favorites, so I’ve dedicated a separate article to explore it in detail—feel free to check it out! Released in November to coincide with the drama’s premiere, it was reportedly composed even before the August release of Kenshi Yonezu’s latest album, LOST CORNER.

As the theme song for a drama that delves into the idea of “replaceability,” this track touches on a profound and universal truth about human connections. While it’s easy to believe that certain bonds are irreplaceable, the reality is that love often finds a way to bloom again, even after separation. This theme resonates deeply with Yonezu’s recent works, which often explore the transient yet enduring nature of relationships.

Kenshi Yonezu’s Azalea: A Song I Can’t Stop Listening To

Kenshi Yonezu's new song "Azalea" is absolutely amazing. It has a natural rhythm that makes your body sway, and no matte...

ochazuke-times.com

2024.11.28

2. Vaundy – Fujin

• Release Date: October 12, 2024
• Theme Song For: TBS drama Light of My Lion (Raion no Kakurega)

Vaundy directed both the opening sequence for the drama and the music video for this track—a rare feat for an artist in Japan. Remarkably, this marks his fourth self-directed music video, showcasing his commitment to expressing his message across all aspects of his art.

The song’s theme portrays humans as “Fujin” (wind gods), each cloaked in their own winds. These winds can harm others, yet this pain is not merely suffering—it represents communication itself and underscores the reason humans coexist.

The idea that “as long as we interact with others, we inevitably hurt each other” is something many people come to understand deeply as they age. However, likening this to “wind” feels uniquely fresh. Wind can be cold and harsh, or warm and comforting, depending on one’s circumstances or state of mind. This perspective resonates with how human relationships can also shift in meaning and impact based on our own emotions and situations.

3. Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni. (zutomayo)- Kaiba Seichotsu

• Release Date: August 29, 2024

When talking about zutomayo’s standout tracks of 2024, most fans would point to TAIDADA, the hugely popular ending theme for the hit anime Dandadan. However, my personal favorite is Kaiba Seichotsu. The chorus, with its intricate rhyming, is unforgettable—one listen and it’s sure to stay with you.

This year, zutomayo also released a live recording, a two-hour masterpiece that keeps you hooked from start to finish. In today’s age of overwhelming content, listening to an audio-only recording might seem challenging for some, but this live album easily overcomes that barrier. Its immersive sound pulls you in, making it a truly rewarding experience.

4. Yorushika – Yu, Sansan

Release Date: August 28, 2024

This track is a cover of the original song by CreepHyp, released in 2013. In August 2024, a tribute album honoring CreepHyp was released, featuring covers of their iconic songs by various artists. Among these, Yorushika’s rendition of Yuu, Sansan truly stands out. The original song gained significant attention as the theme for a Shiseido sunscreen commercial, leaving a lasting impression even today.

When the original was released, I was still in my twenties, and its lyrics struck a deep chord with me at the time. Now, more than a decade later, listening to Yorushika’s remake evokes the same emotional resonance. Perhaps my mindset hasn’t changed much since then—or maybe Yorushika has managed to amplify the raw emotion of the original in a way that feels even more profound.

5. Hitsujibungaku (羊文学) – Burning

Release Date: July 3, 2024
Ending Theme For: Oshi no Ko Season 2

This song was specially written as the ending theme for the second season of the anime Oshi no Ko. Speaking of Oshi no Ko, it’s hard to forget the unprecedented success of YOASOBI’s Idol, the opening theme for Season 1.

Personally, I found the second season even more captivating, so much so that I binge-watched the entire season in a single day. The ending theme was particularly memorable—every time the episode reached its climax, the moment the drum intro and distorted guitar kicked in, I found myself thinking, “They’re ending it here?!” It left a lasting impression every time.

The sound of Burning is refreshingly unique for an anime theme song. The distorted guitar riffs give it a raw and striking quality that’s rarely heard in such contexts. Oshi no Ko has consistently pushed boundaries in its musical choices, from using QUEEN BEE, a renowned Japanese rock band, for Season 1’s ending theme to now showcasing Hitsujibungaku’s bold, rock-infused sound. These daring decisions have undeniably paid off, enhancing the anime’s impact through music.

6. Kenshi Yonezu – Sayonara Mata Itsuka

Release Date: April 8, 2024
Theme Song For: NHK morning drama Tora ni Tsubasa（The Tiger and Her Wings）

This track is undoubtedly one of the defining songs of 2024. As the theme song for an NHK morning drama, known as Asadora in Japan, it naturally becomes ingrained in the minds of its audience. Asadora airs every weekday morning at 8:00 AM, with each episode lasting 15 minutes. The show runs for six months, totaling around 130 episodes. With over 20 million viewers tuning in per episode, it’s safe to say that a significant number of people heard this song repeatedly throughout the show’s run—a testament to its reach and impact.

Kenshi Yonezu intentionally crafted a light, easy-to-listen sound, perfectly suited for starting the day with a refreshing and upbeat tone. Compared to his other works, this song stands out for its cheerful and breezy feel, making it an ideal accompaniment to a bright morning.

The song also gained attention for its lyrical nod to Japanese literature, incorporating a line from a haiku by the renowned poet Santoka Taneda. This homage, combined with the song’s catchy melody, has captivated listeners, offering not just musical enjoyment but also a deep connection to Japan’s literary heritage.

7. Awich, NENE, LANA, MaRI, AI & YURIYAN RETRIEVER – Bad B*tch 美学 Remix (Prod. Chaki Zulu)

Release Date: July 19, 2023

The mic relay delivered by Awich, NENE, LANA, MaRI, AI, and YURIYAN RETRIEVER is absolutely electrifying. Each artist’s individuality shines so brightly that it feels like a gathering of superhero rangers, each with their unique powers. Personally, I love the hook sung in LANA’s distinct voice, but the part that stole the spotlight was undoubtedly the final verse performed by comedian Yuriyan Retriever.

Due to copyright restrictions, I can’t share the lyrics here, but trust me—it’s a line you’ll never forget once you hear it. The bold lyrics and impactful performance left a lasting impression, especially when they performed on one of Japan’s rare live music broadcast shows, sparking widespread buzz.

8. Official HIGE DANDism – TATTOO

Release Date: April 21, 2023
Theme Song For: TBS drama Pending Train

This song was written as the theme for the TBS Friday drama Pending Train. The drama tells the story of Tokyo train passengers who suddenly find themselves transported to a desolate future world. As they navigate this harsh environment, they face moments of cooperation, betrayal, and resilience. To be honest, I didn’t watch the series to the end, but I became hooked on the theme song and have listened to it countless times.

The title TATTOO initially surprised me, as tattoos in Japan are still strongly associated with yakuza or delinquency. However, after looking at the lyrics, it became clear that the song isn’t about tattoos in a literal sense. Instead, TATTOO serves as a metaphor for something indelible, something that cannot be erased. While it leaves room for various interpretations, I see it as a representation of the “mark of conscience” that defines us as human beings.

As a side note, 2024 also saw the release of a self-cover of Akina Nakamori’s 1988 hit TATTOO, which was made available on YouTube. This modern version garnered significant attention and became one of the standout hits of the year. While unrelated, the shared title TATTOO gaining traction in two very different contexts is a fascinating coincidence.

9. King Gnu – Stardom

Release Date: November 17, 2022
Theme Song For: NHK Soccer Coverage (2022 FIFA World Cup)

I’m not particularly passionate about soccer, but the 2022 FIFA World Cup left a strong impression on me. Japan’s national team faced what was dubbed the “Group of Death,” with predictions of an early exit looming. Yet, they stunned the world by defeating powerhouses Germany and Spain, advancing as group leaders. Even in the Round of 16 against Croatia, they fought valiantly, narrowly losing in a penalty shootout. It was a tournament that left fans with both the bittersweet feeling of “we were so close” and the familiar sting of disappointment.

This spirit of resilience was also evident in the 2018 World Cup. During their match against Belgium in the Round of 16, Japan took a 2-0 lead, igniting hope of an upset victory, only to see Belgium score three goals in a dramatic comeback. Moments like these make the message of Stardom—”overcome frustration and move forward”—all the more poignant.

The song also carries a subtle humor in its lyrics, as if saying, “We’ve done everything we can—now it’s up to Lady Luck. Isn’t it about time she smiled on us?” Additionally, fans have noted nods to Fly with Me (2020) by King Gnu frontman Daiki Tsuneta’s other project, millennium parade, woven throughout the track. This connection adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the song, making it a memorable anthem for a historic tournament.

10. STUTS & Takako Matsu with 3exes – Presence I feat. KID FRESINO

Release Date: June 23, 2021
Theme Song For: Fuji TV drama My Dear Exes (Oomameda Towako to Sannin no Moto Otto)

This song serves as the theme for one of my favorite dramas, My Dear Exes (Oomameda Towako to Sannin no Moto Otto). One of the show’s unique appeals is that the lead actress, Takako Matsu, performs the theme song herself. The drama’s distinctive atmosphere is further elevated by the script, penned by Yuji Sakamoto, who won the Best Screenplay award at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival for the film Monster.

As the theme song, Presence I is part of a series of five tracks (Presence I-V), each featuring a different rapper—KID FRESINO, BIM, NENE, Daichi Yamamoto, and T-Pablow. These songs represent a bold and innovative collaboration, seamlessly blending music with the drama’s storytelling. The actors also perform some of the rap sections, and the featured rappers make cameo appearances in the series, creating a uniquely immersive experience where music and visuals intertwine.

11. Hikaru Utada – PINK BLOOD

Release Date: June 2, 2021
Theme Song For: Anime To Your Eternity (Fumetsu no Anata e)

PINK BLOOD was written by Hikaru Utada as the theme song for the anime To Your Eternity (Fumetsu no Anata e). Utada’s lyrics always seem to introduce fresh perspectives and ideas that challenge conventional thinking, often feeling one step ahead of the times. This song is no exception, delivering a powerful and thought-provoking message.

The central message I take from this track is simple yet profound: “Define your own worth.” It’s a straightforward, empowering call to stand tall and remain true to yourself, no matter what others may say. It feels like a reassuring voice saying, “You are enough as you are. Be confident in your existence.”

At times, people find themselves endlessly searching for answers, feeling lost in the process. However, this song gently reminds us, “You don’t need to have all the answers. Simply being here is meaningful enough.” Its universal message resonates deeply, offering a sense of comfort and strength to listeners.

12. Gen Hoshino – Fushigi

Release Date: April 27, 2021
Theme Song For: TBS drama Kikazarukoi ni wa Riyuu ga Atte

This track serves as the theme song for the TBS drama Kikazarukoi ni wa Riyuu ga Atte. Although I haven’t watched the series, knowing that it’s a romance, it’s easy to imagine that the song revolves around the theme of love.

The title “Fushigi” (which means “mysterious”) is intriguing—it’s not the kind of title you would typically associate with a love song. However, this unconventional choice perfectly matches the song’s subtle and introspective atmosphere.

Gen Hoshino has mentioned in the past that he sometimes feels a bit shy when writing lyrics about love. Perhaps that’s why, while undeniably a love song, “Fushigi” avoids grand, explicit declarations. Instead, it expresses affection and attraction in a subtle and poetic way, maintaining a sense of restraint.

The song becomes fascinating as it offers a way to reconsider romance with a more objective perspective. It doesn’t aim to evoke raw, heart-wrenching emotions like many love songs do. On the contrary, it gently brings back buried memories, like a “déjà vu” moment tucked away in the corners of your mind. It’s this ability to quietly recall those past moments that, in my view, is the true charm of “Fushigi.”

13. King Gnu – Abuku

Release Date: March 5, 2021
Theme Song For: Film The Sun Stands Still and drama The Sun Stands Still –The Eclipse-

This song is a reimagining of a track originally created during King Gnu’s early days as the band Srv.Vinci. Personally, I became completely hooked on this track and have vivid memories of wandering the streets at night with it playing on repeat.

Unfortunately, despite King Gnu’s growing fanbase, the streaming numbers for this song haven’t reached the heights one might expect. It’s a shame, as I’d love to see more tracks like this from them in the future.

That said, the music video is nothing short of stunning. It features actor and dancer Mirai Moriyama, whose unique presence fills the screen with intensity and emotion. The result is a visually captivating piece that perfectly complements the song’s atmosphere. If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend giving it a watch.

14. ¥ellow Bucks – Balls Out feat. MIYACHI & Shurkn Pap

Release Date: August 21, 2020

Personally, I tend to prefer slower, more laid-back Japanese rap, but ¥ellow Bucks stands out with a unique blend of speed and finesse. His lyrical choices are sharp and clever, making the words easy to follow, even at a fast pace. His voice has just the right amount of roughness while remaining clear, which makes it exceptionally easy to listen to. On top of that, his voice itself is simply captivating—there’s a comfort to it that keeps me coming back for more.

The album Jungle was a major turning point for ¥ellow Bucks, significantly raising his profile in the Japanese hip-hop scene. I remember discovering him through this album as well. Released in 2020, Jungle marked a time when Japanese hip-hop began to gain more visibility on streaming platforms and in new music playlists.

In Japan, genres like Vocaloid, pop, and rock have long dominated the music landscape. However, the growing recognition of rap in recent years signals a notable shift. The rise of artists like ¥ellow Bucks represents an exciting evolution in Japan’s music scene, with hip-hop carving out a more prominent space for itself.

15. Creepy Nuts – Katsute Tensai Datta Oretachi e (To Us Former Prodigies)

Release Date: August 19, 2020

This song is featured on Creepy Nuts’ second mini-album of the same name and won the Best Hip Hop Video award at the MTV VMAJ 2020.

The lyrics delve into a dilemma that resonates with many adults: the gradual fading of one’s youthful brilliance while conforming to societal norms, eventually settling into being just “average.” Yet, the song doesn’t dwell on this reality. Instead, it delivers an uplifting message: “Life goes on” and “It’s never too late.” It inspires listeners to defy the limitations set by others or even their own preconceptions about life.

Creepy Nuts are undoubtedly one of the most prominent acts in Japan’s hip-hop scene. Their frequent appearances on TV and radio have cemented their widespread popularity and cultural influence, extending beyond just sales figures. The title Katsute Tensai Datta Oretachi e (To Us Former Prodigies) itself encapsulates the essence of their unique appeal.

In hip-hop, “we” often refers to a close-knit group or crew, creating a sense of exclusivity. However, in this track, Creepy Nuts’ use of “us” broadens the scope—it addresses everyone who listens. By shifting from the typical “us and them” divide to a more inclusive tone, the song resonates on a deeper level, inviting all to reflect on their own experiences. This inclusive approach is likely one of the key reasons for its enduring impact.

16. Kenshi Yonezu – Campanella

Release Date: August 5, 2020

Campanella opens STRAY SHEEP, the best-selling album in Japan in 2020. In an era when physical CDs are becoming increasingly obsolete, this album remarkably achieved double platinum status, becoming a cultural touchstone for anyone who listens to music in Japan. Personally, I hadn’t bought a CD in 15 years, but this album compelled me to break that streak. Though I don’t own a CD player, I found myself flipping through the lyric booklet while streaming the album on Spotify. I wanted to experience music in a tactile, immersive way again—and it was absolutely the right decision.

I still vividly remember the summer of 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. On a sweltering day, wearing a mask and drenched in sweat, I made my way to Tower Records to pick up this album. That moment, along with the album itself, has become a cherished memory.

While STRAY SHEEP also includes Yonezu’s massive hit Lemon—one of Japan’s most-streamed music videos—that song dates back to 2018. For this article, which focuses on post-2020 tracks, I chose Campanella, a song written specifically for the album. Kenshi Yonezu often composes a track to encapsulate the themes of an album after most of it has been completed, and Campanella is a perfect example of this thoughtful approach.

17. Fujii Kaze – Yasashisa (Kindness)

Release Date: April 17, 2020

Yasashisa was released a year after Fujii Kaze debuted with his first single, Nan-Nan. When I first heard Nan-Nan, my initial impression was simply, “Here’s someone new and intriguing.” However, the following year, with the release of his debut album, he seemed to skyrocket to stardom almost overnight.

This track was released as a pre-album single, just before Fujii Kaze’s popularity exploded. It marked the “calm before the storm” moment, showcasing lyrics and a message distinct from what other artists were offering at the time. Even the choice of Yasashisa as a title felt unique and refreshing.

As of 2024, Fujii Kaze is undeniably one of the most globally recognized Japanese artists. His popularity is palpable even in Japan, but his immense appeal in Asia stands out. This global breakthrough was largely sparked by his viral hit Shinunoga E-Wa, which first gained traction in Thailand before spreading across Asia, Europe, and eventually earning Gold certification in the United States in 2024.

While artists like BABYMETAL, Lamp, and Ichiko Aoba have significant overseas followings, they often maintain a niche presence within Japan. In contrast, Japanese artists usually find their primary success domestically (with anime songs being a notable exception). Fujii Kaze, however, seems to bridge the gap, garnering equal enthusiasm from fans both in Japan and abroad. Notably, he has achieved this without producing anime-related music, which often serves as a major catalyst for international recognition.

Fujii Kaze’s career trajectory could serve as a barometer for how Japanese music continues to be received on the global stage. His unique position as an artist thriving in both domestic and international markets makes him a fascinating figure to watch, with limitless potential for the future.

18. Kiro Akiyama – Caffeine

• Release Date: March 3, 2020

In Japan, solo male artists who sing while strumming an electric guitar are surprisingly rare, and I remember how fresh Kiro Akiyama’s style felt at the time. What made him even more striking was his unique appearance—bleached blonde hair with bangs so long they almost covered his eyes. It was a look that stood out from the trends of 2024, which have since shifted considerably.

Looking back, it’s interesting to consider how much has changed in just four years. Among male artists in Japan, I’d argue the most noticeable shift has been in their hairstyles—particularly their bangs. Even Kenshi Yonezu, who once sang about “My bangs are way too long, I can’t see anything” in his song LOSER, has transitioned to a style with his hair swept up, revealing his face more clearly.

Akiyama himself also adopted a similar look when he recently performed Caffeine on THE FIRST TAKE. His bangs were parted, making his eyes and eyebrows fully visible—a stark contrast to his earlier look. This evolution in style might reflect the increasing influence of global trends, where presenting a more open and expressive face has become the norm.

19. Tokyo Jihen(Tokyo Incidents) – Eien no Fuzai Shoumei (The Scarlet Alibi)

Release Date: February 29, 2020
Theme Song For: Film Detective Conan: The Scarlet Bullet

This track marked a significant moment in Tokyo Jihen’s history, as it followed their reunion after an eight-year hiatus since their disbandment in 2012. Released shortly after their comeback single Erabarezaru Kokumin (The Lower Classes), Eien no Fuzai Shoumei became the centerpiece of their re-launch, symbolizing a fresh start for the band.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everything. The film’s release was delayed by a year, and their spring tour, initially planned for 13 performances, was cut short after only the first two shows. The remaining dates were canceled amid growing concerns and backlash, with critics questioning whether live events were worth the risk of potential outbreaks.

For me, Tokyo Jihen’s reunion was nothing short of an “event,” a thrilling piece of news that reignited my excitement. Yet, this joy felt oddly out of sync with the chaos of the world at the time. The pandemic’s uncertainty and fear cast a shadow over what should have been a celebratory moment.

I distinctly remember thinking, “Is this really the time for this?” But this feeling wasn’t limited to Tokyo Jihen’s reunion—it extended to everything I was doing. In those early days of the pandemic, it was impossible to predict how long this would last, and every activity seemed to come with an underlying question: “Should we even be doing this right now?” That lingering uncertainty became a defining feature of that time, coloring even the most exciting or positive moments with a sense of doubt.

20. eill – SPOTLIGHT

Release Date: November 6, 2019

This track serves as the title song for eill’s debut album and opens the record with a bright, uplifting energy. It feels like a symbolic anthem, illuminating the promising path of her future career.

While this article focuses on hits from 2020 to 2024, SPOTLIGHT was technically released in November 2019. Given its late release in the year, I hope you’ll indulge this slight exception—it’s practically 2020. Released just a month before COVID-19 began to gain global attention, the song comes from a time untouched by the pandemic’s shadow.

Listening to it now, the song’s brightness feels even more pronounced. So much has changed over the past few years, and not just because of the pandemic. But in 2024, as I try to recall what life and my mindset were like before COVID, I find myself wondering, “Wait, have I—or the world—really recovered from this? Am I still overly sensitive to everything?” Attempting to remember that pre-pandemic state of mind feels like trying to grasp at fog.

SPOTLIGHT, released at the close of 2019, evokes a sense of optimism and anticipation, reminding us of the hope and excitement that surrounded the threshold of 2020. It captures the spirit of a time when we were standing on the cusp of a new decade, eagerly awaiting events like the Tokyo Olympics, full of dreams for the future.

Reflecting on Japanese Hit Songs of the 2020s: Personal Favorites and Memories

As I reflect on the Japanese hit songs of the 2020s, I aimed to create a diverse list covering various artists and years. Interestingly, Kenshi Yonezu appears three times, and six out of twenty tracks are from 2024. Only one track represents 2022, which coincides with a brief switch from Spotify to YouTube Music. Reflecting on it now, I feel Spotify offers a more sophisticated discovery system, though it’s possible I didn’t explore YouTube Music fully.

Revisiting these popular Japanese songs from 2020 onward brought an unexpected joy. Music is often tied to vivid memories, and these tracks reminded me of who I was at different points in time. Some songs even felt new and offered fresh interpretations when I listened to them again, showing their timeless appeal.

If you’re inspired, I encourage you to reflect on your favorite music era or theme. You might rediscover songs that hold personal meaning or uncover new favorites. To wrap up, I’ve included a Spotify playlist of all 20 Japanese hit songs featured in this article. I hope you enjoy revisiting these tracks as much as I did!