When exploring Japan, it is nearly impossible to go more than a few blocks without hearing a brief yet catchy melody. Whether you’re browsing the aisles of a megastore or taking a stroll through the city streets, these unforgettable tunes are always playing, and they can easily get stuck in your head! You have likely encountered these harmonies at Don Quijote, in a train station, or even while watching TV.
Today, we’ll dive into the world of Japanese jingles, uncover their surprising origins, and share some facts you might not know about these ear-catching songs that bring so much character to Japan.
The outside of a Don Quijote – Photo Credit: Morumotto
Don Quijote
Let’s begin with Don Quijote’s iconic jingle! This sound has trended on multiple social media platforms, so it is likely one you already recognize. Believe it or not, the melody played in “Donki” stores originates from an actual song titled “Miracle Shopping,” performed by Maimi Tanaka. Interestingly, Tanaka was once an employee of the company herself!
The song is so popular that it can even be found at karaoke. So, if you just can’t get it out of your head, visit a karaoke box and sing your heart out! You can listen to the full version by Maimi Tanaka below.
Don Quijote Jingle: https://youtu.be/lUsJsealYxM?si=qOAN3mNT7bV9RwsU
FamilyMart – Photo Credit: VTT Studio
FamilyMart
Here is another familiar tune you might recognize from your travels or from social media. Interestingly, FamilyMart’s signature chime originally started as a standard Panasonic doorbell. Created by Yasushi Inada, it carried the technical name “Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd. Doorbell Chime EC5227WP.”
A few years after FamilyMart was established, the company’s management selected Inada’s sound and purchased the doorbells in bulk. Technically, FamilyMart doesn’t own the jingle; whenever you hear it in-store, it is simply the sound of their specific doorbell welcoming you!
FamilyMart Jingle: https://youtu.be/5OGAarORarc?si=7s5pSWXyajaxrVW3
The outside of Bic Camera – Photo Credit: VTT Studio
Bic Camera
The jingle for Bic Camera is so beloved that it has its own title: “Bic Camera no Uta” (ビックカメラの歌), or “Bic Camera’s Song.” The classic version of the song references landmarks all over the Ikebukuro district, such as their headquarters, the Seibu Line east exit, the Tobu Tojo Line west exit, and Sunshine City, a massive complex featuring an aquarium and observatory.
In July 2023, Bic Camera released an updated version of their jingle. The new lyrics reflect the modern transit landscape by including other major train lines that connect to Ikebukuro, such as the Yamanote Line and the Shonan-Shinjuku Line!
Bic Camera Old Jingle: https://youtu.be/3CxkDNCAE74?si=n6XQ9m0cF-zo2NBs
Bic Camera New Jingle: https://youtu.be/ReOmKU00yvc?si=vGTQ87tUw7a8VBU4
Daiso store in Kagoshima – Photo Credit: Stock for you
Daiso
Daiso, one of the most popular 100-yen stores in Japan, also boasts its own theme! Known as “Happy Price Paradise” (ハッピープライスパラダイス), this jingle is a karaoke staple across the country.
The song features a woman’s voice modified with a synthesizer, repeating the title phrase over a catchy, upbeat rhythm. Because it is so recognizable, you can find many fan-made covers and remixes of the beat uploaded across YouTube.
Daiso Jingle: https://youtu.be/PLDy0G66Siw?si=ucDgVK66VwbNt5bY
The Yamanote Line en route – Photo Credit: Md Samir Sayek on Unsplash
Train stations
Almost every train station in Japan has its own distinct melody. Whether it is the Takadanobaba Station (where you can hear the Astro Boy theme song!) or the bustling platforms of Shinjuku, the jingles vary significantly. The composer behind hundreds of these melodies, Minoru Mukaiya, used a bit of psychological strategy in his work. While he wanted the songs to sound pleasant, his goal was also to create a subtle sense of urgency to encourage passengers to board quickly, which is why the doors often close immediately after the melody ends.
There is another practical reason for these station-specific sounds. For children, the elderly, international travelers, and visually impaired individuals, these unique audio cues help them identify their stop without needing to see a sign. Check out this video to hear a compilation of different jingles along a single train line!
The role of the jingle
In Japan, these melodies play a crucial role that extends far beyond just “background noise.” For retail giants like Don Quijote and Bic Camera, these sounds highlight the uniqueness of each brand, invoking a sense of familiarity and even nostalgia for customers. These distinctive melodies not only enhance the shopping experience but also serve as memorable cultural markers and helpful guides for those navigating the city.
Featured Photo Credit: KarlosWest
