Billboard Japan 2026 Mid-Year Charts: Kenshi Yonezu's 'IRIS OUT' Dominates Japan Hot 100
Billboard Japan has released its 2026 mid-year charts, covering the period from November 24, 2025, to May 24, 2026. Topping the all-genre song chart Japan Hot 100 is Kenshi Yonezu's "IRIS OUT," which gained immense popularity as the theme song for Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc. The track achieved 100 million streams in just four weeks, making it the fastest song to reach this milestone in Billboard Japan history. It also made history by peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Global 200 chart. Yonezu expressed his gratitude for the success of the song and its impact on listeners, attributing it to the extraordinary work of Chainsaw Man.
Following closely at No. 2 is M!LK's "Sukisugite Metsu!" which garnered attention through its catchy hook and numerous media appearances. Mrs. GREEN APPLE's "lulu.," the opening theme for the anime Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2, secured the No. 3 spot. The top tier of the chart features a diverse mix of artists, including solo acts, idol groups, bands, and dance-and-vocal units. The Japan Hot Albums roundup saw BTS's fifth album ARIRANG claim the top position, marking the group's successful comeback after nearly four years.
BTS expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support received for their album, hoping that the music resonates across generations and borders. HANA's debut album HANA ranked at No. 2, while King & Prince's STARRING and Number_i's No.II followed closely behind. The Japan Artist 100 list, which combines the results of the Japan Hot 100 and Hot Albums charts, saw Mrs. GREEN APPLE maintain their dominance for three consecutive years. HANA and back number also secured top positions on the list, showcasing their continued success in the music industry.
Kenshi Yonezu's "IRIS OUT" continued to shine on the Global Japan Songs Excl. Japan chart, claiming the top spot and reaching No. 1 in multiple countries/regions. The chart also featured other popular tracks from artists like M!LK, Mrs. GREEN APPLE, King Gnu, and HANA. The diverse range of music styles and genres highlighted the vibrant music scene in Japan.