👑Top Japanese Karaoke Songs Loved by Foreigners in Japan

"I want to go to karaoke, but Japanese songs seem difficult..."
"I want to sing with my friends, but I don’t know which songs to choose..."

If you’ve ever felt this way, you're not alone!
We asked 369 YOLO JAPAN members from 62 countries to tell us their favorite popular Japanese songs to sing at karaoke.
Let’s check out the results and find a song that you’ll enjoy singing too!

Whether you're looking for something easy, emotional, or upbeat—this ranking has it all!

🏆 Top Japanese Songs Loved by Foreigners

🥇 1st: First Love / Hikaru Utada

Released in 1999, this beautiful ballad remains popular even 20+ years later. In 2022, the Netflix series "First Love" renewed its fame worldwide. With its emotional melody, it’s a favorite—even for those who don’t speak Japanese.

🥈 2nd: Dry Flower / Yuuri

This love song, released in 2020, has over 500 million streams. Its gentle melody and English cover have helped it become a karaoke favorite among international fans.

🥉 3rd: Ue o Muite Arukou / Kyu Sakamoto

Known internationally as "Sukiyaki," this 1961 classic reached #1 on the US Billboard charts. It’s easy to sing and still loved across generations.

4th: We Are! / Hiroshi Kitadani

The first opening theme of the anime "One Piece," released in 1999. A must-sing song for anime fans, full of energy and excitement!

5th (tie): Stay With Me / Miki Matsubara

Originally released in 1979, this City Pop classic has made a big comeback globally, especially on TikTok. Its retro sound is perfect for karaoke.

5th (tie): Snow Flower / Mika Nakashima

A popular winter ballad since 2003. Also featured in the movie "Yuki no Hana" and Korean drama "Sorry, I Love You." Great for emotional performances.

🎉 YOLO KARAOKE AWARD 2025

Love karaoke? Don’t miss the YOLO KARAOKE AWARD on January 12, 2025 (Sun)!

・Open to everyone in Japan
・Finalists will sing live at YOLO BASE in Osaka
・Travel & accommodation support included
・Special guests: Mitsuko Horie, Hiroshi Kitadani
・Fun booths with food & games

For more details

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