Top 10 Japanese Songs for Language Learners

Introduction

Are you learning Japanese and looking for a fun way to enhance your skills? Music can be an excellent tool! Not only does it make learning enjoyable, but it also helps you remember phrases and pronunciation better. In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 Japanese songs that are perfect for language learners. Each song comes with useful phrases to help you on your language journey. Plus, learning these songs will improve your pronunciation and give you great conversation topics when talking with native speakers. And, of course, listening to music can boost your mood and help you relax. So, grab your headphones, and let’s dive into the world of Japanese music!

“Lemon” (レモン) by Kenshi Yonezu (米津玄師) – 2018

• Useful Phrase: あの日の悲しみさえ (Ano hi no kanashimi sae) – Even the sadness of that day
• Features: This song is great for understanding the expression of feelings in Japanese.

“Pretender” (プリテンダー) by Official HIGE DANDism (オフィシャル髭男dism) – 2019

• Useful Phrase: それはいつも通り (Sore wa itsumo douri) – It’s the same as always.
• Features: A popular song with clear vocals and relatable lyrics, good for intermediate learners.

“Gurenge” (紅蓮華) by LiSA – 2019

• Useful Phrase: 強くなれる理由を知った (Tsuyoku nareru riyuu o shitta) – I learned the reason I can become stronger
• Features: This dynamic and energetic song is the opening theme for the popular anime “Demon Slayer,” making it a favorite among fans.

“Paprika” (パプリカ) by Foorin – 2018

• Useful Phrase: 夢を描いたなら (Yume o egaita nara) – If you draw a dream.
• Features: A cheerful and upbeat song that’s perfect for children and beginners alike.

“Uchiage Hanabi” by DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu (打上花火 by DAOKO × 米津玄師) – 2017

• Useful Phrase: きっとまだ終わらない夏Useful Phrase: きっとまだ終わらない夏 (Kitto mada owaranai natsu) – Surely, the summer is not over yet.
• Features: This song is from the movie “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” and is widely known for its beautiful melody and lyrics, making it suitable for Japanese learners.

“Koi” (恋) by Gen Hoshino (星野源) – 2016

• Useful Phrase: 胸の中にあるもの (Mune no naka ni aru mono) – The thing inside my chest (heart).   
• Features: Catchy and rhythmic, this song’s dance and music video can also aid in learning.

“365 Nichi no Kamihikouki” (365日の紙飛行機) by AKB48 – 2015

• Useful Phrase: 紙飛行機 (Kamihikouki) – Paper airplane.
• Features: With a moderate pace and clear pronunciation, this song is great for daily practice.

“Brave Shine” by Aimer – 2015

• Useful Phrase: 守りたいものを守れる強さ (Mamoritai mono o mamoreru tsuyosa) – The strength to protect what you want to protect.
• Features: This song was used as the opening theme for the anime “Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works” and has clear vocals and emotional lyrics.

“Nandemonaiya” (なんでもないや) by RADWIMPS – 2016

• Useful Phrase: なんでもないや (Nandemonaiya) – It’s nothing.
• Features: This song from the hit movie “Your Name” (君の名は) is both touching and educational, with clear and poetic lyrics.

“Idol” (アイドル) by YOASOBI – 2023

• Useful Phrase: 今日何食べた？ (Kyou nani tabeta?) – What did eat today?
• Features: With a catchy beat and engaging lyrics, this song is great for modern learners looking to expand their vocabulary and enjoy contemporary Japanese music.

Conclusion

Learning Japanese through music is a fantastic way to enhance your skills while having fun. These top 10 Japanese songs not only provide entertainment but also serve as practical tools for improving your language abilities. The lyrics help with vocabulary and grammar, while the rhythm aids in pronunciation. Additionally, knowing these songs gives you great conversation topics with native speakers. And, of course, listening to music can lift your spirits and help you relax. So, put on these tracks, sing along, and watch your Japanese improve with each beat. Happy learning, and enjoy the music!