The Top 10 Sounds of 2025 According to Rion
Rion Corporation, headquartered in Kokubunji, Tokyo, has recently conducted a fascinating survey to determine the "Most Memorable Sounds of 2025." This annual survey, which has been running since 2011, focuses on how sounds can evoke powerful memories linked to significant events in our lives.
This year's top ten list showcases a variety of inspiring, alarming, and nostalgic sounds that resonated with the public, based on responses from 1,000 participants who were invited to vote online.
Top 10 Sounds That Left an Impression in 2025
1.
First Female Prime Minister's Historic Moment: The sound of applause and cheers filled the National Diet as Japan witnessed its first-ever female prime minister take office. This milestone not only marked a significant advancement in gender equality but also opened a new chapter in Japanese political history, gaining widespread attention from international media.
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Votes: 319 (31.9%)
2.
Cheers for Japan's MLB Championship: The exhilarating sounds of a stadium erupted when a Japanese player led the team to victory in the MLB World Series, reflecting the pride and excitement of a nation. The audience cheered as the winning run crossed home plate, encapsulating a moment of national sporting triumph.
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Votes: 292 (29.2%)
3.
Fireworks Festivities Across Japan: This year's community fireworks displays and festivals continued as cherished traditions, despite challenges such as weather and budget constraints. Innovations like drone shows combined with fireworks added a modern twist to storytelling through sound and spectacle.
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Votes: 242 (24.2%)
4.
Sounds of Bear Sightings: Alarmingly, bear encounters in Japan reached an all-time high this year due to food shortages in forests. The unsettling sounds from urban areas were a stark reminder of nature's encroachment into human habitats, raising concerns for public safety.
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Votes: 231 (23.1%)
5.
Voices at the Osaka World Expo: The theme of the expo inspired lively discussions and excitement among attendees as they explored pavilions that showcased cultural exchanges and innovations aimed at a sustainable future. The atmosphere was vibrant, driven by the sounds of shared experiences and learning.
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Votes: 229 (22.9%)
6.
Cheers for Japan's Soccer Team Victory Against Brazil: October saw Japan's national soccer team achieve an unprecedented win against Brazil in a friendly match. The cheers echoed through the stadium as fans celebrated a significant breakthrough against a soccer powerhouse.
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Votes: 194 (19.4%)
7.
Supportive Cheers at Tokyo's World Athletics Championships: The sounds of encouragement from the audience played a crucial role in motivating athletes during this global sporting event. Many competitors expressed gratitude for the applause that echoed from stands, emphasizing the importance of fan engagement.
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Votes: 190 (19.0%)
8.
Explosions from Conflict Zones: Unfortunately, the sounds of explosions from war-torn areas served as a grim reminder of ongoing global conflicts. These noises highlight the urgency of dialogues aimed at resolving disputes peacefully.
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Votes: 165 (16.5%)
9.
Bells Ringing for Peace: Commemorating 80 years after World War II, the resonant sound of bells in various locations symbolized prayers for peace. Notably, the sound of bells restored in Nagasaki, commemorating loss and recovery, deeply touched many hearts.
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Votes: 151 (15.1%)
10.
Celebratory Applause for Nobel Prize Winners: The announcement of two Japanese researchers receiving Nobel Prizes in distinct categories was celebrated with rapturous applause, marking a notable achievement in Japan's scientific community.
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Votes: 127 (12.7%)
Conclusion
This survey by Rion not only captures a unique aspect of cultural memory but also emphasizes how sounds can signify key moments in our lives, leaving an imprint on our collective experience. As we reflect on 2025, these sounds will undoubtedly remain etched in the minds of those who lived through this remarkable year.
For more information about this survey or to learn more about Rion Corporation, visit
Rion's website.