Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
We’ve put together a collection of anime songs that anyone who grew up in the 2000s will undoubtedly find nostalgic.
Some are original tracks made for the anime, while others are tie-in songs.
Each and every one of them still sounds fresh today.
There are probably people who discovered these artists through anime, grew to love them, and are still following them now.
We hope this article—and the songs themselves—help you remember those wonderful feelings from back then.
It also works great as a go-to karaoke song list.
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
- [Top 20] Anime Song Sales Ranking of the Heisei 30 Years!
- Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime from the 2000s to the 2010s
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- [Collection of Epic Songs] A compilation of cool anime songs chosen by anime fans
- An energizing song that was a hit in the 2000s—a classic that gives you strength.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 40s, from nostalgic classics to the latest hits.
- [Popular] A compilation of anime songs that were hits in 2020
- [Anime Songs] Anime tracks recommended for men in their 30s to sing at karaoke
- Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
- Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
- Recommended popular anime from the 2000s
Anime songs that were hits in the 2000s: A nostalgic collection of legendary tracks (41–50)
DIVER#2100R.A.M
“DIVER#2100,” used as the opening theme for the robot anime Dennō Bōkenki Webdiver, features lyrics by the renowned songwriter Nemuko Oikawa, who has also written for artists such as Takajin Yashiki.
As befits a boys’ robot anime, the song is crafted with an exhilarating, invigorating tone.
Anime songs that were hits in the 2000s: A nostalgic collection of god-tier tracks (51–60)
sailing dayBUMP OF CHICKEN
Released in March 2003 by BUMP OF CHICKEN as a double A-side single with “Lost Man,” this track was selected as the ending theme for the film “ONE PIECE THE MOVIE: Dead End no Bōken” (Dead End Adventure).
As fans of the series themselves, the band crafted a high-velocity rock tune infused with motifs of adventure and setting sail.
The lyrics, which sing of the will to face destiny and the resolve to keep chasing one’s dreams, deeply resonated with young listeners at the time.
Peaking at No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and later included on the album “Yggdrasil,” it has become one of their signature songs and a staple that unites fans at live shows.
It’s a highly recommended track for anyone about to take a new step forward.
HEART OF SWORD ~Before Dawn~T.M.Revolution
This is a gem of a song, known as the ending theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin, that powerfully sings of loneliness and hope.
Set in the stillness before dawn, its strong will to believe in one’s own path and move forward is expressed through a forceful melody.
Its striking, tempestuous sound and emotionally rich vocals resonate together, piercing deeply into the listener’s heart.
Released as T.M.Revolution’s third single in November 1996, it was used twice as an ending theme during the anime’s broadcast run.
It has been included on numerous acclaimed records, such as the albums “restoration LEVEL→3” and “B★E★S★T.” When you feel lost in life or are facing an important decision, listening to this song is sure to give you the courage to take a new step forward.
Song of LoveEvery Little Thing
The song that played over the ending of the feature film Inuyasha: The Castle Beyond the Looking Glass is a prayerful ballad that gently envelops the lingering emotions of its grand tale set in the Sengoku era.
Carried by Kaori Mochida’s crystal-clear vocals, the lyrics weave wishes for strength, flowers, and love—for the earth, the fields, and the heart.
While acknowledging one’s own weakness, it portrays a resolve to live for love from this very moment, mirroring the film’s theme of feelings that transcend time.
Included on the album Many Pieces, released in March 2003, its acoustic guitar and strings create an expansive sound that resonates deeply.
It’s a song that quietly gives you a nudge when you want to reexamine the bonds you share with someone dear.
Togetherakiyoshi fumie
Fumie Akiyoshi’s lively vocals make this a pop tune that hints at the start of an adventure.
Its powerful message—that you can overcome any hardship as long as you’re with your friends—comes through clearly.
Fans will also love the clever touch of weaving familiar game moves and item names into the lyrics.
Released in November 2006, this song served as the opening theme for the anime Pokémon Diamond & Pearl and was beloved by fans for an impressive 94 episodes.
Its sound lifts your spirits and gives a push to anyone about to take on a new challenge.
It’s the kind of energetic track you’ll want to hear when setting off on a journey or when you want to feel the bonds with your friends.
RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
This rock tune delivers a hopeful message centered on positive self-transformation.
It powerfully portrays the feelings of those wrestling with conflict and uncertainty, gently giving listeners a push forward.
Released as a single by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION in August 2004, it was also included on the album Sol-fa.
Chosen as the opening theme for Season 4 of the TV anime Fullmetal Alchemist, it earned high popularity among anime fans.
In 2024, it was also featured in promotional footage for the M-1 Grand Prix.
It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking to take a new step or to find their own path.
Ideaeufonius
‘Noein: To Your Other Self’ is a science fiction anime that aired from October 2005 to March 2006.
The opening theme is ‘Idea’ by eufonius, which ranked 94th on the Oricon charts.