Japan’s Gen Z Reveals Their Top Valentine’s Day Anthems!

Japan’s Gen Z Reveals Their Top Valentine’s Day Anthems!

Japan’s Gen Z Reveals Their Top Valentine’s Day Anthems!

From timeless classics to TikTok sensations, find out which songs capture the hearts of high schoolers on the most romantic day of the year.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, a new survey conducted by Wakamono Research offers a captivating glimpse into the musical tastes of Japan’s current high school students. With the tradition of “giri-choco” (obligation chocolate) fading, the focus increasingly shifts to heartfelt gestures for loved ones. But what songs truly resonate with young hearts during this special season?

Wakamono Research, a marketing information site for teenagers, polled 214 high school students (male and female) across Japan between January 6 and 19, 2026, asking, “What songs come to mind for Valentine’s Day?” The results showcase a vibrant blend of old and new, with some surprising contenders.

Enduring Classics and K-Pop’s Rise Dominate the Top 3

The top spot was claimed by the three-member techno-pop unit Perfume with their iconic track “Chocolate Disco” (29.4%). Released in 2007, this song predates many of the surveyed students, yet its presence is undeniable. Students cited its frequent appearance on TikTok and television, as well as nostalgic memories from childhood, as reasons for its enduring popularity. The repetitive chorus, featuring the phrase “Chocolate Disco” an impressive 43 times, undoubtedly helps engrave it into the minds of listeners. One student’s comment captures the sentiment: “The lyrics are completely Valentine’s, and the title itself has ‘chocolate’ in it.” The unique techno-pop sound crafted by composer Yasutaka Nakata, combined with its catchy lyrics, continues to make it a beloved Valentine’s anthem across generations.

Securing the second position is Sayuri Kokusho’s evergreen hit “Valentine Kiss” (19.6%). Despite being released way back on February 1, 1986 – nearly four decades ago – this song maintains a strong presence among令和 high schoolers. Many students described it as the quintessential “classic” or “masterpiece” of Valentine’s Day. The song’s omnipresence during the Valentine’s season, frequently heard in supermarkets and on television, has made it an almost ambient soundscape for many, cementing its status as a timeless favorite that continues to reign supreme.

Breaking into the top three, the five-member Korean girl group ILLIT’s “Almond Chocolate” (7.5%) showed a strong performance, challenging the long-standing reign of the aforementioned classics. Released on Valentine’s Day 2025, the song quickly gained traction on video platforms, propelled by ILLIT’s surging popularity among young audiences. Its sweet and pop-infused melody, expressing the tender feelings of young love, clearly resonated. “It was released last Valentine’s and became a trend,” one student shared, reflecting the song’s immediate impact and its status as their generation’s Valentine’s song. The relatable lyrics, imagining giving chocolate to a loved one, further endeared it to students.

The Full Top 7: A Glimpse into Modern Valentine’s Day Vibes

Beyond the leading trio, the ranking reveals a diverse array of songs reflecting contemporary trends, especially the powerful influence of social media.

The Top 7 Valentine’s Day Songs According to Japanese High Schoolers:

1st Place: “Chocolate Disco” (Perfume) – 29.4%
2nd Place: “Valentine Kiss” (Sayuri Kokusho) – 19.6%
3rd Place: “Almond Chocolate” (ILLIT) – 7.5%
4th Place: “Koi Suru Fortune Cookie” (AKB48) – 4.7%
- AKB48’s hit from 2013, while not explicitly about Valentine’s, likely resonates due to the association of cookies with Valentine’s Day treats. Students noted a “vague Valentine’s vibe” from the song’s atmosphere and title.
5th Place: “Valentine Kessen” (Noa) – 3.7%
- Released by Noa, known for viral hits like “Zenho Bisho,” this 2025 Valentine’s song owes its ranking almost entirely to TikTok. Many students discovered it through viral dances and trending sounds, suggesting it will likely continue to dominate social media this Valentine’s season.
6th Place: “Hapi Choco” (FRUITS ZIPPER) – 2.8%
- This love song, themed around Valentine’s Day and released in February 2023, has quickly become a new staple. Dedicated fans, affectionately known as “Frupper,” enthusiastically supported its inclusion.
7th Place: “HEART” (King & Prince) – 1.9%
- While not a direct Valentine’s song, this classic love anthem from the male idol group King & Prince made the list due to strong fan support. Its music video, overflowing with heart imagery, also contributed to its Valentine’s association for some students.

This survey highlights the evolving landscape of popular culture among Japanese youth. While iconic songs from past decades continue to hold their ground, often through new life breathed into them by social media, the rapid ascent of K-pop and TikTok-driven trends is undeniable. This blend of nostalgia and new media influence paints a vivid picture of how Valentine’s Day, and indeed Kawaii culture, continues to adapt and thrive, shaped by the digital age.

For more detailed insights into this survey, visit Wakamono Research:

Survey Details:

Survey Period: January 6, 2026 – January 19, 2026
Survey Organization: Wakamono Research Co., Ltd.
Target Audience: High school students (male and female) nationwide
Valid Responses: 214
Survey Method: Internet research

(Note: When quoting or reprinting parts of this survey, please cite “Wakamono Research” and include the URL: https://wakamono-research.co.jp/media/)