17 Best Japanese Songs of All Time: Japan’s Timeless Tunes

Hey there music aficionados, it’s your friend TBone, the mastermind behind Level Tunes, spinning vinyl and sharing musical gems from all corners of the globe.

This week, we’re setting sail to the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan.

Ever since I got my hands on a vinyl copy of Yellow Magic Orchestra’s self-titled album, I’ve been deeply intrigued by Japanese music.

It’s an incredible fusion of tradition, innovation, and a sound that’s uniquely its own.

I’m thrilled to share with you my top 17 Japanese songs of all time, a collection that reflects the diversity and richness of this fascinating music scene. Get ready to have your ears tantalized and your mind expanded!

Here are the best Japanese songs of all time that you can check out:

List Of Best Japanese Songs of All Time

Top Japanese tunes of all time in a list format:

1. “Rydeen” by Yellow Magic Orchestra

“Rydeen”, a striking piece from Yellow Magic Orchestra’s album “Solid State Survivor” (1979, Alfa Records), is a hallmark of Japanese synth-pop. This pulsating electronic anthem is a testament to the band’s revolutionary approach to music. I picked this because it showcases YMO’s futuristic sound, blending traditional Japanese elements with innovative electronic techniques. Haruomi Hosono, Ryuichi Sakamoto, and Yukihiro Takahashi didn’t just perform – they painted a sonic picture of Japan’s techno-cultural landscape.

2. “Kanashikute Yarikirenai” by The Folk Crusaders

This 1968 piece from The Folk Crusaders, on their album “Kanashikute Yarikirenai” (Express), is a classic example of Japanese folk rock. The melody is catchy yet melancholic, narrating the sorrows of youth. The band, including Kazuhiko Kato and Osamu Kitayama, perfectly captures a sense of longing in the midst of societal changes. I love this song for its authenticity and raw emotion.

3. “Automatic” by Hikaru Utada

“Automatic” from Hikaru Utada’s album “First Love” (1999, Toshiba-EMI) was an instant J-Pop classic. Utada’s expressive voice, coupled with a contemporary R&B sound, brought a refreshing change to the J-Pop scene. I’ve included this track for its tremendous impact on Japanese music and its continued popularity today.

4. “Linda Linda” by The Blue Hearts

An emblem of Japanese punk rock, “Linda Linda” is a track from The Blue Hearts’ album of the same name (1987, Meldac). The band’s raw energy and rebellious spirit, led by Hiroto Kōmoto and Masatoshi Mashima, make this song an anthem for youth and rebellion. Its timeless appeal and electrifying guitar riffs are why it’s on my list.

5. “Koi no Dance Site” by Morning Musume

“Koi no Dance Site” from Morning Musume’s album “3rd -LOVE Paradise-” (2000, Zetima) is a true J-Pop sensation. This infectiously cheerful song, filled with catchy hooks and energetic choreography, defines the essence of Idol culture. I chose it for its unabashed exuberance and iconic status in J-Pop history.

6. “Zankoku na Tenshi no Thesis” by Yoko Takahashi

Known worldwide as the opening theme of the anime “Neon Genesis Evangelion”, “Zankoku na Tenshi no Thesis” (1995, King Records) by Yoko Takahashi represents a significant intersection of music and anime culture. Its soaring melody and Takahashi’s emotive performance make it a standout track. I’ve picked this for its cultural importance and the way it resonates with anime fans globally.

7. “Kaze wo Atsumete” by Happy End

“Kaze wo Atsumete” from the album “Kazemachi Roman” (1971, URC), by the legendary rock band Happy End, is a song that exudes a sense of serene nostalgia. With its poetic lyrics and delicate melody, this song by Haruomi Hosono, Takashi Matsumoto, Eiichi Ohtaki, and Shigeru Suzuki beautifully captures the fleeting beauty of life. Its timeless charm is the reason it’s on my list.

8. “Tayutau Shishu” by Ringo Sheena

“Taishou A” from Ringo Sheena’s album “Sanmon Gossip” (2009, EMI Music Japan) is a brilliant showcase of her eccentric yet captivating style. The song fuses traditional Japanese instruments with jazz and pop, presenting a sound that’s distinctly Sheena’s. I chose it for its unique blend of genres and Sheena’s powerful vocal delivery.

9. “Forever Love” by X Japan

“Forever Love” from X Japan’s album “Dahlia” (1996, Atlantic Records) is a power ballad that encapsulates the band’s operatic heavy metal sound. Frontman Yoshiki’s stunning composition and Toshi’s heartfelt vocals make this song a must-listen. It’s on my list for its emotional depth and the band’s remarkable musicianship.

10. “Heavy Rotation” by AKB48

“Heavy Rotation” from AKB48’s album of the same name (2010, King Records) is a pop earworm that showcases the Idol group’s infectious charm. This bubbly track is beloved by fans for its catchy melody and lively performance. I’ve included it for its representation of the larger-than-life Idol phenomenon.

11. “Shinunoga Easy” by Hachimitsu Pie

An integral part of Japan’s City Pop movement, “Shinunoga Easy” is from Hachimitsu Pie’s self-titled album (1970, URC). Its relaxed rhythm and jazzy undertones capture the breezy optimism of ’70s Japan. I chose it for its embodiment of a bygone era and its evocative melody.

12. “Paprika” by Foorin

“Paprika” by Foorin (2018, NHK) is a cheerful pop song loved by kids and adults alike. Its energetic rhythm and uplifting melody have made it a staple at school festivals across Japan. I selected this song for its contagious positivity and its role in promoting music among the younger generation.

13. “Sayonara no Natsu” by Yumi Arai

“Sayonara no Natsu” from Yumi Arai’s album “Hikō-ki Gumo” (1973, Toshiba-EMI) is a beautifully melancholic ballad that has become a part of Japan’s collective memory. Arai’s soulful voice and the song’s nostalgic feel create a timeless classic. It’s on my list for its sublime musicality and poignant lyricism.

14. “Gurenge” by LiSA

An anime song that’s transcended its origins, “Gurenge” by LiSA (2019, SACRA MUSIC) is the opening theme for “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba”. Its high-energy rock sound and LiSA’s powerful vocals make it a favorite among fans. I chose it for its compelling sound and its ability to capture the excitement of modern anime.

15. “Konya wa Boogie Back” by Scha Dara Parr

“Konya wa Boogie Back” from Scha Dara Parr’s album “5th Wheel 2 the Coach” (1994, Ki/oon Records) is a laid-back hip-hop track that shaped the Japanese rap scene. With its funky beats and smooth flow, it’s an essential listen for hip-hop fans. I picked this song for its influential role in Japanese hip-hop and its enduring groove.

16. “Plastic Love” by Mariya Takeuchi

“Plastic Love” from Mariya Takeuchi’s album “Variety” (1984, Warner Pioneer) is a song that recently gained international fame thanks to the internet. Its soulful City Pop sound and Takeuchi’s sultry voice have won fans worldwide. I included it because of its resurgence and its representation of the City Pop genre.

17. “Lemon” by Kenshi Yonezu

“Lemon” by Kenshi Yonezu (2018, Sony Music) is a heart-wrenching pop ballad that showcases Yonezu’s talent as a songwriter. Its melancholic lyrics and the emotive delivery have struck a chord with listeners, making it one of Japan’s biggest hits in recent years. I chose this song for its emotional power and Yonezu’s undeniable talent.

Fun Facts: Top Japanese Tracks of All Time

“Rydeen” by Yellow Magic Orchestra

“Rydeen” is often used in popular culture, and if you’re a video game fan, you might recognize it. It’s been featured in various video games such as “Beatmania IIDX” and “Dance Dance Revolution”.

“Automatic” by Hikaru Utada

Hikaru Utada was only 16 when she wrote “Automatic”. Despite her young age, the song was a massive hit, selling over two million copies and cementing her place in J-Pop history.

“Linda Linda” by The Blue Hearts

“Linda Linda” is so well-loved that it inspired a Japanese film. The 2005 movie “Linda Linda Linda” centers around high school girls who form a band to cover this song for their school festival.

“Kaze wo Atsumete” by Happy End

“Kaze wo Atsumete” gained international recognition when it was featured in the film “Lost in Translation”. The song’s dreamy, nostalgic feel fits perfectly with the movie’s atmospheric vibe.

“Forever Love” by X Japan

“Forever Love” was performed at the funeral of X Japan’s lead guitarist, Hide, in 1998. It was an emotionally charged event, as Hide was a beloved figure in Japanese rock.

“Heavy Rotation” by AKB48

AKB48’s “Heavy Rotation” was decided by fan votes. The song won the first place in AKB48’s annual popularity contest, and it was chosen as the title track of their 17th single.

“Paprika” by Foorin

“Paprika” was a part of a project by Japan’s national broadcasting organization, NHK, to create a dance that can be enjoyed worldwide. It became a viral dance challenge and was performed at various events, including the Rugby World Cup 2019.

“Plastic Love” by Mariya Takeuchi

Though “Plastic Love” didn’t make a significant impact upon its initial release, it gained a massive following decades later. It became a viral hit on YouTube, where a video of the song garnered millions of views, introducing a new generation to City Pop.

“Lemon” by Kenshi Yonezu

“Lemon” was the theme song for the Japanese drama “Unnatural”. It was so successful that it became the most downloaded song in the history of Japan’s Oricon digital singles chart.

And there you have it, folks! An eclectic collection that truly encapsulates the mesmerizing soundscape of Japanese music. From classic to contemporary, these tracks echo the unique harmony of tradition and innovation. So tune in, turn up the volume, and immerse yourself in these musical masterpieces. Until next time, this is TBone, signing off from Level Tunes.

Thanks for reading.

TBone