List of best-selling albums of the 1980s (Japan)

This list compiles albums that achieved the highest sales figures in Japan during the decade of the 1980s. The Japanese music market experienced significant growth during this period, fueled by the rise of J-pop and a robust domestic recording industry. Albums included on this list are ranked by reported or certified sales figures, with precedence given to higher certification levels when sales ranges overlap.

It's important to note that sales data from this era can be challenging to verify completely, and figures may vary slightly depending on the source. The Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) implemented certification levels, but not all albums meeting a certain sales threshold necessarily obtained certification. Therefore, this list aims to provide the most accurate and comprehensive overview based on available information from reliable sources like the RIAJ, Oricon (the primary music sales chart in Japan), and reputable music publications.

Factors contributing to an album's success in Japan during the 1980s included strong marketing campaigns, frequent television appearances by the artist, and tie-ins with popular dramas or anime. The burgeoning CD market also played a significant role, particularly in the latter half of the decade. Many albums were initially released on vinyl and cassette, then re-released on CD, often contributing to overall sales figures.

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, sales figures can be influenced by re-releases, promotional bundles, and other factors. This list should therefore be viewed as a representation of the best-selling albums of the 1980s in Japan based on the best available data. Further research and refinement of sales information may lead to updates in the future.

Reliable sales figures are sometimes unavailable for imported albums released during this period. Therefore, this list primarily focuses on albums recorded by Japanese artists or albums that had significant promotional pushes within the Japanese domestic market.