AiNA THE END
Courtesy Photo
This summer’s Billboard Japan Hot 100 showcased an eclectic mix of tracks that underline the dynamism and breadth of J-pop. Mrs. GREEN APPLE—now a fixture on the national stage—continues its meteoric ascent, while rookie girl group HANA, which debuted in April, has impressively maintained two sun-soaked anthems within the top ten for multiple weeks. Early-2000s favorites like ORANGE RANGE’s “Ikenai Taiyo” and HALCALI’s “Otsukare SUMMER” have also resurfaced, captivating both long-time fans and a new generation of listeners.
Below are five standout J-pop tracks that defined the summer of 2025, handpicked by Billboard Japan.
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AiNA THE END “On The Way”
As the opening theme for the second season of the anime Dandadan, “On The Way” has soared on the Japan Hot 100—charting for nine consecutive weeks and peaking at No. 5 on the Aug. 20 list. AiNA’s raspy, commanding delivery seizes the listener’s attention immediately, while the soaring chorus conveys a resolute spirit. Fans will also enjoy how the track cleverly weaves the word “Dandadan” into its lyrics, grounding it firmly within the show’s world.
Fujii Kaze “Love Like This”
Issued ahead of his eagerly awaited third album Prema (due Sept. 5), “Love Like This” opens with a stirring electric piano motif that evokes a twilight beachscape. Fujii Kaze’s introspective lyrics invite listeners to interpret the song as either a celebration of lifelong companionship or an ode to self-affirmation. The accompanying video, set against sun-dappled European vistas, channels a nostalgic elegance akin to Gwen Stefani’s “Cool,” portraying a bittersweet tale of mature longing.
Official Hige Dandism “Rashisa”
Created as the theme for the animated film 100 Meters, “Rashisa” mirrors the adrenaline of a 100-meter sprint. Frontman Satoshi Fujihara’s rich vocals surge atop a brisk, propulsive arrangement, simulating the exhilaration of rushing toward the finish line. The title “rashisa”—meaning “one’s true essence”—embraces both the burdens and strengths of authenticity, offering an uplifting thrust forward.
HANA “Blue Jeans”
On their second single “Blue Jeans,” HANA paints the portrait of a young woman wrestling with insecurities as she believes she’s fallen in love. From its muted guitar intro to its climactic chorus, the track mirrors the protagonist’s emotional crescendo. The distinctive voices of all seven members shine through, resulting in a vibrant ensemble that secured the highest weekly debut on the Japan Hot 100 in 2025.
ORANGE RANGE “Ikenai Taiyo”
Riding the wave of Heisei-era revival, ORANGE RANGE’s 2007 anthem “Ikenai Taiyo” encapsulates the spirit of early-2000s pop. Their playful new video, packed with 72 nods to iconic Heisei moments, has reignited enthusiasm among loyal fans and newcomers alike. Simultaneously, other nostalgic summer classics—like RIP SLYME’s “Nettaiya” (2007) and YUI’s “SUMMER SONG” (2010)—are experiencing viral resurgences, highlighting a broader trend sweeping Japan’s music scene.
