Japan Top 10 (日本のトップ10) JPOP HITS!

Join Connor and Andy as they take a bite of the discography of Mrs. GREEN APPLE, one of Japan’s most buzzworthy pop groups! Since 2015, Mrs. GREEN APPLE has earned multiple certified gold and platinum records and has been featured in hit films, TV dramas, and anime. With their blend of rock and orchestral instrumentals alongside the soulful vocals of Motoki Ohmori, it won’t be long before you find yourself humming along to their catchy ballads! 

Scripted & QAed by: Nola

Hosted by: Andy & Connor

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan

Join Kuzey and Luisa as they go through some of the newest, biggest, and tastiest news stories from the past few weeks in Japan, and listen to some fun music along the way! 

Script and QA by: Miles

Hosted by: Kuzey & Luisa

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan 

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! We are so excited to have so many new songs for this month’s countdown! Please sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley

Hosted by: Andy & Vicky

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Our Artist of the Month for October is Suchmos! Join Shanna and Brinton as they discuss the formation and history of this unique rock band. From American influences to commercial hits, the pink vibes in this episode are just mint!

Scripted & QAed by: Connor 

Hosted by: Shanna & Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Today’s episode delves into the art of Japanese gardens, exploring not only their beauty but also the deep spiritual and philosophical elements that shape their design. Learn about their history, famous Japanese gardens, how they have shaped art and culture in both Japan and abroad, and contemporary garden masters that are carrying on this important tradition. 

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Shanna & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! We are so excited to have so many new songs for this month’s countdown! Please sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Miles

Hosted by: Brinton & Hayley

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Our Artist of the Month for September is The Tomboys! Join Vicky and Brinton as they discuss the history of this rock and roll group. From new hits to old favorites there’s sure to be a little something for everyone. You just might find a song to add to your moon viewing playlist!

Scripted & QAed by: Connor 

Hosted by: Vicky & Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

If you’ve ever been to Japan, there’s a good chance you’ve taken advantage of its high-speed bullet trains, also known as Shinkansen. Shinkansen can carry passengers from Kyushu to Hokkaido at speeds of up to 320 km/h in a comfortable and quiet car, with very few delays. Learn all about these beloved trains in today’s episode, with hit songs used for Japan Rail commercials and on-board chimes. Who knows - maybe you’ll even become aDensha otaku(railfan) yourself!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Shanna & Kuzey

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Join Andy and Kuzey as they sift through almost 40 years of Final Fantasy music! What will we learn this time? Who is Nobuo Uematsu? And how important is music to the franchise? You’re in luck.

Scripted & QAed by: Connor

Hosted by: Kuzey & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Joanna

Song List:

4. Aerith’s Theme - Advent Children Arrangement (Final Fantasy VII) (composed by Nobuo Uematsu) (September 28th, 2005)

3. Theme of Love - Distant Worlds Arrangement (Final Fantasy IV) (composed by Nobuo Uematsu) (December 4th, 2007)

2. 1000 words (Sen no Kotoba) - Koda Kumi (Final Fantasy X-2) (composed by Noriko Matsueda and Takahito Eguchi) (March 5th, 2003)

1.君がいるから - Sayuri Sugawara (Kimi ga iru kara) (Final Fantasy XIII) (December 2nd, 2009)

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! We are so excited to have so many new songs for this month’s countdown! Please sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley

Hosted by: Brinton & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

With more than a decade of work, King Gnu has plenty of history, music, collabs, and projects to cover! Join us as we talk about King Gnu and they’re “Tokyo New Mixture” style!

Scripted by: Miles 

Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Vicky & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan

If you’re a fan of the director Makoto Shinkai, you won’t want to miss this episode, with top hits from films like Your Name, Weathering With You, Suzume, and more!

Scripted: Nola & Miles

QAed by: Nola

Hosted by: Kuzey & Brinton

Audio Edited by: Fred & Joanna

Uploaded by: Joanna

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! With a new month comes new songs which we hope you love! So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Haru

Hosted by: Luisa & Hayley G

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

One phrase seems to capture Junky58%’s energy perfectly, and they even said it themselves in one of their songs: “I Want To PUNK!!” The question is, do you? Join Vicky and Andy as they talk all about this punky group.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor 

Hosted by: Vicky & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Join Kuzey and Hayley as they discuss the latest news in Japan this summer!

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Script and QA by: Nola

Hosted by: Kuzey & Hayley

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan 

Ever hear about that game called…hm what was it? Animal Crossing!! Join Andy and Brinton as they unpack one of Nintendo’s most beloved series, from its mechanics all the way to some of its crazy crossovers (did someone say 7-Eleven?)!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Brinton & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Joanna

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! With a new month comes new songs which we hope you love! So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Luisa & Vicky

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

With a career spanning more than 50 years, there is a lot about guitarist Masayoshi Takanaka to talk about! Join Hayley and Haru as they dive into the history and songs that have spanned his career!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Miles 

Hosted by: Haru & Hayley

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

If you love Japanese crime drama television series or the Like A Dragon games, tune in to this episode about the history of the yakuza and their role in Japanese society. Learn the secrets you’ve always wanted to know about Japan’s criminal underworld, from their unique rituals and code of conduct to the popular media franchises they inspired.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Brinton & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Rose

Join Haru and Vicky as they tremble through the scary maze of Japanese horror! What songs do we typically find in this genre, and what are some of the most popular or disturbing films out there? From anime to live action, from psychological thriller to dark sci-fi, let’s find out.

Scripted & QAed by: Connor

Hosted by: Haru & Vicky

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan 

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! With a new month comes new songs which we hope you love! So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Shanna & Kuzey

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

SpecialThanks is a rock band with almost twenty years of music experience! Join Luisa and Fred as they go through the band’s history from their first album to their most recent releases!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Miles 

Hosted by: Luisa & Fred

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Joanna

Japanese game shows are renowned worldwide for their outrageous setups and death-defying physical challenges that transcend cultural and language boundaries. Shows like "Sasuke,” “Brain Wall” (Human Tetris) and "Takeshi's Castle" have gained international fame, showcasing contestants navigating formidable obstacle courses and enduring whimsical and often humorous trials. Join Andy and Tassie (Tassie’s final episode!) in this fun special all about Japanese game shows.

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! It’s a new season which brings along some new songs. We hope you enjoy this month’s selection! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Haru & Vicky

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

With 29 openings and 55 endings spanning over fifteen years, there’s an anime who has no shortage of music to talk about. Join Shanna and Connor as they check out openings and endings from one of the most popular anime out there: Naruto!

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Scripted & QAed by: Miles

Hosted by: Shanna and Connor

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Joanna

Join Fred and Brinton as they unpack some of Mao Abe’s best works. You’ll find out some interesting facts about one of 21st century Japan’s most popular artists and see for yourself why they are so successful!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Brinton & Fred

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Rose

Learn about what’s going on in Japan this spring  and enjoy some fun new rock tunes!

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Script and QA by: Nola

Hosted by: Shanna & Haru

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Joanna

Who knew there was so much music associated with Baseball? Join Kuzey and Haru as they take a look at the history of baseball in Japan, and the unlikely places where music makes an appearance!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Miles

Hosted by: Kuzey & Haru

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! We have great new songs for you all this month. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Brinton & Luisa

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Kisida Kyodan and the Akebosi Rockets are a rock group that, even if you haven't heard of before, you have heard them before. Their sound is one of a kind, and their name boasts some of the best anime opening theme songs out there. Join Kuzey and Connor as we listen to some of their repertoire and unpack some very intriguing facts!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Kuzey & Connor

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Anime Live Adaptations have a certain…track record…to say the least. In this episode Shanna and Andy will investigate some of the giants in the genre, enlightening us with some fascinating information regarding the whole process of turning an anime or manga series into a full-fledged live action product, which can include series, movies, and even plays!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Shanna & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Joanna

Come with us on a journey to the cultural center and historical heart of Japan: The Kansai Region. Join Andy and Brinton as they explore a bit of the history of Kansai’s underground music scene and check out artists that come from all around the region!

Scripted & QAed by: Miles

Hosted by: Andy and Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Jonathan

Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of Japan Top 10! We have great new songs to continue the 2024 countdowns. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Miyabi & Luisa

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Today’s episode is all about the band QUEEN BEE! Led by the playful and androgynous Avu-chan with infectious growls and a soothing falsetto, their punk rock aesthetic shines in their music videos and fashion, breaking boundaries in Japan’s music scene. Listen to their popular hits featured in anime Tokyo Ghoul:re, Dororo, Chainsaw Man, Undead Unluck, and more!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Kuzey & Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Reminiscing over summer days? Missing the water and sand between your toes? Give this episode a listen and all your sunkissed dreams will come true! Entering the stage: Kuzey and Brinton.

Scripted & QAed by: Connor

Hosted by: Kuzey and Brinton

Audio Edited by: Haru

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Happy New Year and welcome everyone to a new episode of Japan Top 10! We have a ton of amazing new songs to kick start the 2024 countdowns. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Japan Top 10.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Shanna & Luisa

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Japan Top 10 celebrates our 500th episode! Join our staff as we mark the milestone by discussing bands and songs that we discovered working on the podcast! Thanks for listening, and here’s to 500 more episodes~

Hosted by: Jack, Andy, Hayley, Nola, Shanna, Connor, Fred, Miyabi, Brinton 

Edited and Uploaded by: Fred

QA by: Nola 

Songlist:

1. Yuzu (ゆず) - Reason

2. fishmans - いかれたbaby

3. Inochi no Uta - Mariya Takeuchi

4. Hitsujibungaku - more than words

5. Spitz - Cherry 「チェリー」

6. Tokyo Incidents - Kokoro / Spiritual 

7. Lamp - Last Train at 25 O’clock 

8. Tokyo incidents - 透明人間 

9. how to count one to ten - Parade

UNCHAIN, a Kyoto-based rock band with a diverse musical palette, blending jazz, punk, electronica, and more, achieved critical acclaim with albums like rapture and Hello, Young Souls!!, as well as their popular covers of hits by artists like Tokyo Jihen and Tatsuro Yamashita. Enjoy a mix of rock, funk, and city pop in today’s episode with UNCHAIN!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Andy & Connor

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10! Today we bring you the Top 20 songs of 2023. Pull up a chair, sit back, and enjoy this year's best hits from Japan.

Scripted: Nola & Hayley G

QAed by: Tadamichi

Hosted by: Tassie & Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Hello and welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10! We have a ton of amazing new songs for this month’s countdown. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Japan Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

For more than two decades, Chihiro Onitsuka has captivated audiences with her evocative compositions. Delving into her own vulnerabilities and insecurities, Onitsuka crafts introspective ballads and songs of longing that resonate deeply with listeners. This episode showcases a diverse selection of Onitsuka’s music, including rock arrangements, delicate string orchestrations, and stripped-down piano numbers. Immerse yourself in Chihiro Onitsuka’s rich voice and heart-rending lyrics as we explore her timeless artistry.

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Shanna & Miyabi

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Excited to learn what new music, anime, news, and more has been going on in Japan this past Winter? Join Andy and Kuzey as they brief us with the latest information, all the while playing songs that will surprise and please your ears!

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Script and QA by: Connor

Hosted by: Kuzey & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Hello and welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10! We have a ton of amazing new songs for this month’s countdown. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Japan Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Brinton & Haru

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Paledusk is a Japanese metalcore band from Fukuoka that combines elements of trap, hyper pop, and EDM in highly chaotic yet infectiously fun tracks! Paledusk’s unique take on metal is taking over the world as they tour Australia, Europe, and North America, and work alongside international artists like Bring Me The Horizon, Lil Uzi Vert, and Alpha Wolf. Strap yourself in for some of their popular tracks in today’s episode!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Connor & Shanna

Audio Edited: Shanna

Uploaded: Tadamichi

Japan is known for its vending machine culture for many reasons, so listen in to this episode where Tassie and Andy introduce some really cool facts (!), as well as some really strange concessions.

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Tassie & Andy

Audio Edited by: Shanna

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Hello and welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10! We have a ton of amazing new songs for this month’s countdown. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Japan Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Shanna & Haru

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Enter the musical world of (K)NoW_NAME in today’s episode, a group of composers, lyricists, and vocalists who give life to popular anime like Dorohedoro and SPY x FAMILY. Unable to be confined to any genre, this close-knit unit collaborates to tackle any subject matter. Check out some of their most popular tracks in our October Artist of the Month episode!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Brinton & Kuzey

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

How has Japanese music influenced the Chinese music scene in the 80’s into the late 2000’s? Take a deep dive into the familiar Japanese hits that shaped all the popular Chinese songs during this period with Connor and Andy on this episode!

Scripted & QAed by: Nola

Hosted by: Andy and Connor

Audio Edited by: Haru

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Want to hear what’s been happening in Japan this Fall? Want to know what McDonald’s said on Vegetable Day? Tune in to Shanna and Brinton as they talk about music, games, food, top news, and more with this installment of Japan Top 10!

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Script and QA by: Connor

Hosted by: Shanna & Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Hello and welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10! We have a ton of amazing new songs for this month’s countdown. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Japan Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Kuzey

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Join Shanna and Connor as they discuss one of the hottest rock bands in Japan: THE ORAL CIGARETTES! With their unique blend of electronic, rap, and rock influences, energetic drumlines, intricate guitar riffs, haunting lyrics, and the soulful tenor vocals of Takuya Yamanaka, you’re guaranteed to add THE ORAL CIGARETTES to your playlist!~

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Shanna & Connor

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Manga has remained one of the most prevalent Japanese media forms in the world, whether it is from the 20th century or even till today. You will also learn that it looked very different several centuries ago! Join Tassie and Andy as they explore the range of history and natures of Japanese Manga!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Tassie & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Hello everyone! Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. We hope you all are having a wonderful summer. Today we bring you the latest of Japan’s summer 2023 news. So pull up a chair and listen to the latest news in Japan.

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Script and QA by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Kuzey & Brinton

Audio Edited by: Haru

Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10. We have some amazing new songs for this month’s countdown. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Japan Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Kuzey

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Join Shanna and Connor discuss one of the most popular singer-songwriters on Japan’s music scene: Vickeblanka! Known for his emotional falsetto, piano melodies, and colorful music videos, Vickeblanka has made a name for himself internationally with his chart-topping anime and television drama theme songs. Listen to some of his most beloved songs in our Artist of the Month episode!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Shanna & Connor

Audio Edited by: Haru

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Japan Top 10 turns ten this year! And to celebrate, we have this special double episode outlining some of the biggest Japanese hits within the past decade! Join us in celebrating the top 20 hits of the last ten years~

Scripted: Hayley G & Connor

QAed by: Tadamichi

Hosted by: Andy & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10. We’ve got some great new songs from a variety of artists. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Haru & Brinton

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Join Connor and Andy discuss the viral TikTok sensation, Wednesday Campanella! Known for their playful wordplay, folklore references, fun dances, intricate music videos, and blending of genres like house and rap, you’ll be sure to fall in love with these addictive tunes!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Connor & Andy

Audio Edited by: Fred

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

What’s the deal with Japanese video games, anyway? Japan holds a long list of awards and records in the video game industry, dating back as far as the 1970s. From Nintendo history to Final Fantasy soundtracks, sit back and relax with Kuzey and Andy as they take us through a history of Japanese video games!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Kuzey & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10. We’ve got some great new songs from a variety of artists. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Miyabi

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Otoboke Beaver is a punk rock and garage band that has received wide acclaim internationally for their boisterous sound and criticism of gender roles. This all-girl quartet mixes English lyrics and slang from their native Kyoto, frequently performs sold-out tours in Europe and the United States, and has been praised by the likes of Dave Grohl and Tom Moreno. Listen to all the chaos in today’s episode!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Shanna & Fred

Audio Edited by: Haru & Fred

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Are you studying Japanese? Tune in to today’s episode to listen to easy-to-follow hit songs by Japanese artists over multiple generations. Grab a copy of the lyrics and sing along to impress your friends at your next karaoke session!

Scripted & QAed by: Nola

Hosted by: Andy and Kuzey

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

News Specials are back! Learn about recent otaku news and headliners, and also how a trash facility in Sapporo found 100,000 yen. Join Connor and Kuzey as they tell you all about it (and introduce Higedan’s newest release)!

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Script and QA by: Connor

Hosted by: Kuzey & Connor

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10. We’ve got some amazing new songs from favorite artists. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Tokyo Incidents is a band that requires little introduction, as over the past 20 years they have continuously taken over top charts with their robust sound and wild energy. Join Tassie and Miyabi as they uncover the hits and hidden gems of this jazz and rock infused group!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Tassie & Miyabi

Audio Edited by: Haru

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

It is officially Spring in Japan, and this time we learn about the different aspects of Japanese culture that are heightened from the new season. From plum blossoms in Tokyo to the tea fields below Mt. Fuji, join Kuzey and Shanna as they provide new insights and discussion on this worldwide sensation!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Kuzey & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10. We’ve got some great artists for you to listen to this month. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Miyabi & Connor

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Kanjani8 is a Johnny’s Entertainment idol group whose members hail from Osaka and Kyoto. As de facto ambassadors of western Japan, they have accomplished several impressive feats since starting their career in 2002, including a national tour of each of Japan’s forty-seven prefectures, dozens of consecutive number one hit singles, and even founding an independent record label within Johnny’s Entertainment for greater artistic freedom. Listeners will love their enka-inspired tunes, impressive rock instrumentals, and friendly Osakan charm.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Tassie & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Pedro

Japanese Romcoms are among the most popular J-Dramas out there, with Long Vacation, Hoyokko, and Hana Yori Dango being a few of them. Lucky for us, one of the core aspects of a Japanese Romcom is its music, where we have found TONS of great songs and artists. Join Shanna and our new host Kuzey for a deeper look into one of our favorite TV genres!

Scripted & QAed by: Connor

Hosted by: Shanna and Kuzey

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome everyone to another episode of Japan Top 10. We’ve got some talented artists for you to listen to. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's Top 10 countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Miyabi & Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

As one of the most successful visual-kei artists, LUNA SEA recently celebrated their 30th anniversary and continues to play for tens of thousands of fans each year. Join Connor and Shanna as they discuss one of Japan’s top rock bands!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Connor & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Japan Top 10 turns 10! Join hosts past and present as we celebrate a decade of Japan Top 10. Listen to our favorite songs of the decade, as we discuss our journey reaching this milestone!~

Hosted by: Tassie, Lydia, Connor, Shanna, Andy, Tadamichi, Haru, Hayley G, Nola, Fred & Producer Jack!

Audio edited & uploaded by: Fred

QAed by: Connor

Japan has a longstanding history of tradition and culture, so it is no wonder that their crafts are still thriving today. From Joinery to Tea Ceremony, join Andy and Fred as they discuss the beauty and simplicity of these niche Japanese creations!

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Andy and Fred

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Pedro

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. We’ve got some amazing artists this month so sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Miyabi & Tassie

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

HALCALI was a J-pop and hip-hop duo in the 2000s and 2010s produced by RYO-Z and DJ FUMIYA of the hip hop group RIP SLYME. Childhood friends Haru and Yukari blended pop, rap, and ska, and rose to international fame with “Long Kiss Good Bye,” an ending theme for Naruto Shippuden. Halcali was the first female hip-hop group to reach the top ten in Japan’s Oricon music charts and is known for their catchy melodies and lighthearted lyrics. Join Connor and Shanna bop to bubblegum rap with HALCALI!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Connor & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Goth Music in Japan began to take form in the late 80s, but has continued to influence Japanese music even today. Join Connor and Shanna as they dive into the sounds, contributions, and meanings of Japanese Goth Music!

Scripted by: Connor

Hosted by: Connor and Shanna

Quality Assured by: Tadamichi

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. We’ve got some new and veteran artists this month so sit back, relax, and enjoy this month's countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Miyabi & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Yellow Magic Orchestra is one of the best selling artists of all time in Japan and one of the most successful international acts from Japan. Members Harry Hosono, Yukihiro Takahashi, and Ryuichi Sakamoto are known for pioneering the synthpop genre and were one of the first acts to make extensive use of computer technology in music and experimenting in genres like ska and electronic rap. Check out today’s episode to listen to this revolutionary artist in electronic music.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Haru and Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Pedro

The year 2022 draws to a close. It has been a great year of music by some amazing artists. Hope you enjoy this list of top 20 hits of 2022.

Scripted & QAed by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Andy & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Pedro & Fred

Today’s episode is all about November’s and December’s latest stories, anime, games, and of course, music! Catch up on the latest news from Japan in today’s episode.

Script and QA by: Connor

Hosted by: Lydia and Haru

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Pedro

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. It’s a new month and new season so snuggle up to a warm fire, relax, and enjoy this month’s countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Tassie & Lydia

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Today’s episode is all about Junichi Inagaki, a popular city pop singer known for his hits from the 1980s and 1990s. Inagaki’s emotional tunes include some of the most popular songs of the Christmas season. City pop emerged in Japan during the economic boom with the introduction of new electronic musical instruments and cars built with cassette decks. Enjoy a long car ride and the soulful tunes of Junichi Inagaki. It may bring back memories of a past lover or two!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Connor & Christine

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred 

Japanese architecture is known worldwide for its simplicity, harmony with its natural environment, and inspiration from Shinto and Buddhism, but has it always been that way? Today’s episode will cover the evolution of architecture through Japan’s history, how homes have transformed over the years, and the philosophies of the country’s most famous architects. 

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Tassie and Lydia

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. It’s a new month and we have some great new songs for you this month so sit back, relax, and enjoy this month’s countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Andy & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Hello Everyone! Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. We have a great group for you all this month so please sit back and enjoy this month’s episode of Artist of the Month.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Connor & Christine

Audio Edited by: Haru

Uploaded by: Jack

Japanese cars are known for their reliability and innovative technology. How much do you know about Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Subaru, and Mazda? Learn all about each brand’s humble beginnings and what sets each apart in Japan, one of the top automobile manufacturers in the world.

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Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Connor and Andy

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Today’s episode is all about September and October’s latest stories, anime, games, and of course, music! Catch up on the latest news from Japan in today’s episode.

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Script and QA by: Nola

Hosted by: Tassie and Christine Y.

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. It’s a new season and we have some great new songs for you this month so sit back, relax, and enjoy this month’s countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Tassie & Lydia

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Flowers. Cats. Nostalgia. Kaneko Ayano brings all of her unique qualities into her music, creating an inspiring pop-folk feel. She always wears her heart on her sleeve–whether she is feeling bright or bleak, Kaneko Ayano is an authentically talented artist.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Shanna & Haru

Audio Edited by: Haru 

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Today’s episode is all about the legendary Summer Sonic Festival, a must-see outdoor music festival that has been going strong since 2000! Learn all about the Japanese and Western artists that have shared the stage and how the festival and music trends have changed over the years.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Lydia and Tassie

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. We have a some great new songs for you this month so sit back, relax, and enjoy this month’s countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Shanna & Christine Y

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Join Andy and Haru as they explore the many musical feats of the piano- pop & rock sensation Official HIGE DANdism. Their musical variety is sure to strike a chord with anyone, and their background is just as intriguing!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Connor

Hosted by: Andy & Haru

Audio Edited by: Haru 

Uploaded by: Fred 

What’s happening in Japan? Listen to the latest news for the months of July and August with Japan Top 10!

Script and QA by: Connor

Hosted by: Tassie and Lydia

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Whether you're headed for the nearest vending machine, conbini, cafe, traditional tea house or just putting the kettle on,  join Japan top 10 as we place our order and discover a little more about some of Japan's most popular drinks.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley M

Hosted by: Haru and Andy

Audio Edited by: Haru

Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. Happy July to everyone! We have a some great songs for you this month so sit back, relax, and enjoy this month’s countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Tassie & Christine Y

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted & Audio Edited by: Shanna

Uploaded by: Jack

Meet Jillian Marshall, an ethnomusicologist on Japan who has recently released her book “JAPANTHEM: Counter-Cultural Experiences, Cross-Cultural Remixes,” in which she introduces Tokyo’s underground music scene, traditional music of the Bon Odori festival in Akita Prefecture, and her study of the idol group AKB48. Listen to Jillian’s profile of the underground music scene and counterculture in Tokyo!

PUFFY, or Puffy AmiYumi, inspired PUFFY-mania, both in Japan and the United States, with 32 singles and 12 albums to their name. They are the only J-Pop group to inspire an American cartoon. Listen to some of the top hits of PUFFY!

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Nola

Hosted by: Andy & Shanna

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

From City pop queens to sugary sweet idol groups it takes a special kind of J-pop talent to repeatedly hit the top of the charts in Japan. Join Tassie as Japan Top 10 explores some of the greatest female Japanese artists and groups that have reached #1 achieving greatness at the pinnacle of success in Japan!

Scripted & QAed by: Hayley M 

Hosted by: Tassie & Lydia

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Fred

Welcome to another episode of Japan Top 10. Happy July to everyone! We have a lot of great new songs for you this month so sit back, relax, and enjoy this month’s countdown.

Scripted & Quality Assured by: Hayley G

Hosted by: Kirby & Christine Y

Audio Edited & Uploaded by: Tadamichi