【2026 Latest】What’s Trending in Japan Right Now? Top 10 of 15 “Latest Trend Rankings”!

Here are the results of a survey conducted among trend-conscious Japanese high school boys and girls! The theme of this survey is "Spring 2026 Latest Trends." We will announce all 15 categories, including buzzwords and trending topics among Generation Z in 2026, popular foods, favorite idols, artists, actors, voice actors, and popular characters. Let's take a look at the "next big trends" as predicted by high school students.

What Words Are Trending Now?

• 1st 〇〇で滅 (14.5%)
• 2nd めろい (10.9%)
• 3rd 好きすぎて滅 (9.5%)
• 4th しゃばい (2.7%)
• 4th 爆裂 (2.7%)
• 6th 〇〇で今これ (2.3%)
• 6th 〇〇界隈 (2.3%)
• 6th チャッピー構文 (2.3%)
• 9th 〇〇で神 (0.9%)
• 9th うす (0.9%)
• 9th スキピ (0.9%)
• 9th ちゃむ (0.9%)

*Multiple answers allowed

A Phrase from an Unstoppable Dance Vocal Group Takes the Top Spot!

The number one spot goes to "〇〇で滅." This phrase spread from the five-member dance vocal group "M!LK" and their song "好きすぎて滅!" and is used to express extreme emotions such as "I'm about to explode with feelings" or "I love it so much I might lose my senses (i.e., my existence is destroyed)." Comments from students include, "Everyone uses '滅' when something is really over or when things get crazy" (2nd year, female), and "You can combine it with any word" (3rd year, male), showing that it's trending as a highly versatile exclamation.

In 2nd place is "めろい," which was ranked 1st in the previous survey. It means "so cool or cute that you become lovestruck," and from episodes like "When someone does something attractive, everyone harmonizes and says 'めろい'" (2nd year, female), it's clear that the word has become established among high school students.

3rd place goes to "好きすぎて滅," which is derived from the 1st place phrase. Following their previous hit "イイじゃん," every new release by "M!LK" sweeps the trends. Right now, the "M!LK whirlwind" is taking over among high school students.

What Things Are Trending Now?

• 1st Sticker Exchange (21.3%)
• 2nd Sticker Albums (8.7%)
• 3rd Kyo Suki (8.3%)
• 3rd Bonbon Drop Stickers (8.3%)
• 5th Mejirushi Charms (4.8%)
• 6th Gachagacha (Capsule Toys) (3.5%)
• 7th Mero Joy (2.6%)
• 8th Tamagotchi (2.2%)
• 9th M!LK (1.7%)
• 10th Hobikatsu (Hobby Activities) (1.3%)
• 10th Aikatsu! (1.3%)

*Multiple answers allowed

The Unprecedented "Sticker Exchange" Craze Takes the Top Spot! Romance Reality Shows Remain Steadily Popular

Coming in at number one is the "Sticker Exchange," which has become nothing short of a social phenomenon. Comments included, "It's fun to make sticker books, and I can trade with my friends" (1st year high school girl), as well as, "Not just among friends—these days, I see a lot of couples making them together too" (3rd year high school girl). This craze, which is sweeping all generations, is gaining even more momentum among high school students.

In second place, closely related to the top trend, is the "Sticker Book." Many commented, "It really shows your personality" (3rd year high school girl), and the ability to customize and create a one-of-a-kind original appeals to high schoolers who value expressing their individuality.

Tied for third place are the "Bonbon Drop Stickers," which sparked the sticker boom, and "Kyo Suki," the abbreviation for ABEMA's romance reality show "Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita." The "Bonbon Drop Stickers" are known for their jewel-like, plump thickness and glossy, candy-like 3D appearance. Within the ongoing craze, these stickers are highly sought after and considered rare, making them extremely popular for trading. On the other hand, "Kyo Suki" also continues to gain traction, with comments like, "I look forward to talking about it with my boyfriend every week" (3rd year high school girl) and "The graduation special this time is really exciting and fun" (1st year high school girl). As a staple content that both boys and girls can enjoy, its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.

What Foods Are Trending Right Now?

• 1st: Dubai Choco Mochi (20.9%)
• 2nd: Mala Tang (19.1%)
• 3rd: Yoajeong (7.9%)
• 4th: Dubai Choco (5.6%)
• 5th: 3D Ice Cream (3.3%)
• 6th: Choco Marshmallow (2.8%)
• 7th: Açaí Bowl (1.9%)
• 8th: Ninja Meshi (Ninja Gummies) (1.4%)
• 8th: Heisei Girl Choco (1.4%)
• 10th: Crème Brûlée Hot Donut (McDonald's) (0.9%)
• 10th: Cheese Famichiki (0.9%)

*Multiple answers allowed

Innovative Korean Sweets Are Rapidly Gaining Popularity!

Taking the top spot is the Korean-origin "Dubai Choco Mochi." This evolved sweet is an adaptation of the globally popular "Dubai Choco," featuring a chewy mochi exterior and a crispy kadaifi (thin noodle-like pastry) filling, creating a unique "double texture" that has become a hot topic.

In second place is the ever-popular "Mala Tang." One student commented, "Whenever I go out to eat with friends, it's always one of the options" (3rd year high school girl). The fun of customizing your own ingredients and its healthy appeal have earned unwavering support among high schoolers.

Third place goes to "Yoajeong," which has continued to attract attention since the previous survey. This Korean dessert consists of yogurt ice cream topped with fruits, nuts, honey, and more. Many commented, "It's refreshing and delicious. Plus, it's cute and looks great on social media" (1st year high school girl). With temperatures rising, its popularity is expected to grow even more in the coming season.

What Poses Are Trending Right Now?

• 1st: 好きすぎて滅 Pose (19.1%)
• 2nd: Smartphone Face Cover (11.8%)
• 3rd: Face Cover Pose (6.4%)
• 4th: Peace Sign (3.6%)
• 4th: Cheek Heart (3.6%)
• 6th: Gal Peace (2.7%)
• 7th: Chin Grab Pose (1.8%)
• 7th: Ii Jan Pose (1.8%)
• 7th: Good Pose (1.8%)
• 7th: Heart Pose (1.8%)

*Multiple answers allowed

["Sukisugite Metsu Pose" Takes the Top Spot as a Fun Callout for Photos!]

In first place is the "好きすぎて滅 Pose," which also ranked third in the "Trending Words" category. In addition to comments like "It looks cute" (3rd year high school girl), there were also remarks such as "It's popular to strike the pose and say '〇〇すぎて滅！'" (2nd year high school boy). It seems this phrase has become a staple “callout” used to hype up photo shoots.

In second place is the "Smartphone Face Cover," which has become a classic in the Reiwa era. Comments included, "Everyone does it when you look at BeReal" (2nd year high school boy) and "A lot of my friends do it when we take group photos" (1st year high school girl). This pose remains highly popular not only among close friends but also as a “fail-proof classic” pose when posting on social media where many people can see it.

In third place is the "Face Cover Pose," where you cover your face with your hand or other means. Opinions included, "Even on apps like BeReal that don't have editing features, you can still look cute while showing off your nails." (3rd year high school girl). The fact that you can look good without filters and highlight your hand accessories seems to really appeal to high school students.

Who is your current favorite idol or artist?

• 1st iLiFE! (5.0%)
• 1st Mrs. GREEN APPLE (5.0%)
• 1st Chanmina (5.0%)
• 4th =LOVE (4.5%)
• 5th M!LK (3.5%)
• 6th HANA (3.0%)
• 7th SixTONES (2.5%)
• 7th TWICE (2.5%)
• 9th back number (2.0%)
• 9th FRUITS ZIPPER (2.0%)
• 9th Pixel Ribbon (2.0%)

*Multiple answers allowed

Three Artists from Different Genres Tie for First Place!

This time, in addition to the ever-popular "Mrs. GREEN APPLE," the idol group "iLiFE!"—which is rapidly gaining a passionate following—and "Chanmina," who is also making her mark as a producer, all tied for first place. Comments about "Mrs. GREEN APPLE" included, "They have so many amazing songs that really touch your heart" (1st year high school boy). As individual members gain more media exposure and expand into acting, their consistently outstanding vocal skills and catchy songwriting continue to earn the strong trust of high school students. "iLiFE!" received enthusiastic support from high school girls, with comments like "They're just so cute and I admire them." On the other hand, "Chanmina" is admired for her way of life and unwavering mindset, as seen in comments like "She's strong, funny, and cool" (1st year high school girl).

Who is your current favorite male actor?

• 1st Ryusei Yokohama (7.5%)
• 2nd Ryo Yoshizawa (4.5%)
• 3rd Hiroshi Iwase (4.0%)
• 4th Takeru Satoh (3.5%)
• 4th Fumiya Takahashi (3.5%)
• 4th Kyo-ya Honda (3.5%)
• 7th Masaki Suda (3.0%)
• 7th Ryoma Takeuchi (3.0%)
• 7th Ryohei Suzuki (3.0%)
• 10th Hayato Sano (M!LK) (2.5%)
• 10th Yuki Yamada (2.5%)

*Multiple answers allowed

Who is your current favorite actress?

• 1st Kanna Hashimoto (14.0%)
• 2nd Mio Imada (11.0%)
• 3rd Mei Ikuta (8.0%)
• 4th Minami Hamabe (7.5%)
• 5th Natsuki Deguchi (5.0%)
• 6th Satomi Ishihara (3.5%)
• 7th Kasumi Arimura (2.0%)
• 7th Erika Toda (2.0%)
• 7th Nanoka Hara (2.0%)
• 10th Hiyori Sakurada (1.5%)
• 10th Suzu Hirose (1.5%)
• 10th Haruka Fukuhara (1.5%)
• 10th Yuriko Yoshitaka (1.5%)

*Multiple answers allowed

Who is your current favorite TV personality or comedian?

• 1st Rainbow (5.5%)
• 2nd JaruJaru (5.0%)
• 3rd Takurou (4.5%)
• 4th Sosina (Shimofuri Myojo) (3.0%)
• 5th Lalande (2.5%)
• 5th Hirona Nagahama (2.5%)
• 7th Jyaradon (2.0%)
• 7th Bananaman (2.0%)
• 9th Chidori (2.0%)
• 9th Reiwa Roman (2.0%)

*Multiple answers allowed

Who is your current favorite voice actor?

• 1st Natsuki Hanae (14.5%)
• 2nd Yūki Kaji (6.5%)
• 2nd Mamoru Miyano (6.5%)
• 4th Kana Hanazawa (5.0%)
• 5th Kenjirō Tsuda (3.5%)
• 5th Kōichi Yamadera (3.5%)
• 7th Yūichi Nakamura (3.0%)
• 8th Nobuhiko Okamoto (2.5%)
• 9th Toshiki Masuda (2.0%)
• 9th Kōki Uchiyama (2.0%)
• 9th Subaru Kimura (2.0%)

*Multiple answers allowed

Who is your current favorite model or influencer?

• 1st MINAMI (3.5%)
• 1st Sakura (3.5%)
• 3rd Isshou Tomoko (3.0%)
• 3rd Hirona Nagahama (3.0%)
• 5th Rion Tada (2.5%)
• 5th Meru Nukumi (2.5%)
• 7th MON7A (2.0%)
• 7th Noa (2.0%)
• 9th Mumei (1.5%)
• 9th Yuipisu (1.5%)
• 9th Nene Furuonoi (1.5%)
• 9th Moeka Shirota (1.5%)
• 9th Yuma Tanimura (1.5%)
• 9th Aya Nakamachi (1.5%)
• 9th HEISEI FLAMINGO (1.5%)

*Multiple answers allowed

What is your current favorite YouTube channel or TikTok account?

• 1st Tomoko Isshou (5.5%)
• 1st Comdot (3.0%)
• 3rd Lalatune [Lalande Official] (2.5%)
• 4th HIKAKIN (2.0%)
• 4th Rainbow Comedy Skit Channel (2.0%)
• 4th Heisei Flamingo (2.0%)
• 7th iLiFE! (1.5%)
• 7th Lazy Lie Crazy [Lakele] (1.5%)
• 7th SixTONES (1.5%)
• 7th Tsū-san to Yuppi (1.5%)
• 7th Toa (1.5%)
• 7th Yonino Channel (1.5%)
• 7th Tokai On Air (1.5%)

*Multiple answers allowed

Who is your current favorite character?

• 1st Tamagotchi (17.3%)
• 2nd Monchhichi (8.0%)
• 3rd Chiikawa (7.1%)
• 4th Esther Bunny (4.9%)
• 4th Hello Kitty (4.9%)
• 6th Puppet Sun-Sun (4.0%)
• 7th LOVVBU (3.1%)
• 8th Aikatsu! (2.7%)
• 9th Minnie Mouse (2.2%)
• 10th mikko characters (1.8%)
• 10th Kuromi (1.8%)

*Multiple answers allowed

What is your current favorite song?

• 1st Sukisugite Metsu! / M!LK (14.9%)
• 2nd Bakuretsu Aishiteru / M!LK (7.0%)
• 3rd IRIS OUT / Kenshi Yonezu (5.8%)
• 4th Tontsukatan Tan / Crazy Wow Wow!! (3.7%)
• 5th Kimi Sen! / iLiFE! (3.3%)
• 6th 404 (NewEra) / KiiiKiii (1.2%)
• 6th Blue Jeans / HANA (1.2%)
• 6th lulu. / Mrs. GREEN APPLE (1.2%)
• 6th MONTAGEM HIKARI / Belly Jay (1.2%)
• 6th Puzzle / Lira Ikuta (1.2%)
• 6th Happy End / back number (1.2%)
• 6th Hanikami / Hey! Say! JUMP (1.2%)

*Multiple answers allowed

What is your current favorite TV show?

• 1st Place: Today, I Fell in Love Series (34.9%)
• 2nd Place: Love Joutou (6.7%)
• 3rd Place: Sore Snow Man ni Yarasete Kudasai (5.7%)
• 3rd Place: Wednesday's Downtown (5.7%)
• 5th Place: Golden SixTONES (4.8%)
• 5th Place: ItteQ! (Sekai no Hate made ItteQ!) (4.8%)
• 7th Place: Getsuyou kara Yofukashi (3.8%)
• 8th Place: LAST CALL (2.4%)
• 9th Place: Reboot (1.9%)
• 10th Place: Super Nobishiro Time by Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita. (1.4%)

*Multiple answers allowed

10 Next Trend Picks

Finally, here are some excerpts from comments by high school students predicting the "next trend."

[Item] Mellojoy Squeeze

A next-generation silicone squeeze toy from the Chinese brand "Mellojoy." Its ultra-soft, slow-recovery, low-resilience texture is said to be "soothing," and its adorable shapes modeled after food and animals have sparked explosive popularity, especially on social media.

[Character] Gal Neko

A story depicting the daily lives of "Tuna," a cat who admires gyaru (Japanese fashionistas), and her friends. The pop illustrations of Tuna and her crew, who embody the Reiwa-era gyaru spirit, and their laid-back, relaxed conversations have made them hugely popular among high school students for being "just so cute."

[Person] Monaki

A four-member group produced by Kazuyoshi Sakai, leader of Junretsu. Their debut song "Honma Yade☆Nandeyanen☆Shirankedo" and its catchy "Honma Yade Dance" choreography have gone viral on TikTok and other platforms, and their friendly character is rapidly gaining attention.

[Person] Ami Nakai

A current high school figure skater who won a bronze medal at the Milano Cortina Olympics. Not only is her performance on the ice overwhelming, but her candid and playful personality shown on social media is also charming. With both world-class skills and approachability, she has become an icon admired by her generation.

[Pose] Bakuretsu Pose

A trending pose born from the popular dance and vocal group "M!LK" and their song "Bakuretsu Aishiteru." The addictive pose, performed in sync with the phrase "ba-ku-re-tsu," is becoming a staple for photo booths and video shoots, and is currently a hot topic.

[Item] Deco Security Alarm

An evolved security alarm cutely decorated with rhinestones and stickers. While practical for "crime prevention," more and more high school students are using them as unique charms for their school bags to express their individuality.

[Item] Snack Album

The trend of "sticker albums," which are hugely popular, has now evolved into "snack albums"! Collecting favorite snacks in a simple album or exchanging contents with friends is gaining attention as a tool for enjoying analog communication.

[Spot] KAWAII MONSTER LAND

A multi-entertainment facility that opened on Takeshita Street in Harajuku on February 13, 2026. With monster girl shows and teacup rides themed after the character "Choppy," its colorful, sensory-stimulating world is making headlines as "Harajuku's latest hot spot."

[Food] Macaron Cereal

A luxurious dessert style from overseas, where you pour milk over bite-sized mini macarons and enjoy them together. The cute, colorful appearance and the unique combination of crispy and moist textures have caught the attention of many high school students, with a rapidly growing number saying, "I want to try it at least once."

[Fashion] Crushed Denim

As a revival item from the 1990s, bold crushed denim is making a comeback. Going beyond simple distressed processing, more decorative and "boldly torn" edgy designs are gaining popularity.

[Survey Overview]
Survey Theme: 2026 Spring Trend Survey
Survey Target: High school boys and girls (ages 15–18)
Survey Period: February 19 (Thu) – February 25 (Wed), 2026
Survey Method: Online questionnaire survey
Number of Valid Responses: 200

Source: "Shibuya Trend Research" https://shibuya-trendresearch.jp

*For more explanations, please visit the official Shibuya Trend Research website (Japanese)!