From the 1990s, when CDs sold like hotcakes, into the 2000s, when the shift to digital gradually took hold.
As more people began enjoying music on digital music players, cell phones, and YouTube, the music industry truly entered a turning point.
In this article, we’ll introduce hit autumn songs from the 2000s, a time when the way we listened to music began to change.
We’ve gathered a variety of tracks—from songs that evoke the slightly wistful mood of fall to tunes many people downloaded to their phones.
You might just reunite with the songs that colored your youth.
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Autumn songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic autumn tracks and recommended popular songs (1–10)
red-yellow fragrant olive (Osmanthus fragrans)Fujifaburikku
This is the third single released by the rock band Fujifabric.
Issued as the third installment in a series of singles themed around the four seasons, it perfectly fits its theme by evoking a gentle autumnal nostalgia.
The lyrical verses are so evocative you can almost sense the scents of the scenery, a testament to Masahiko Shimura’s exceptional expressive power.
With a rapidly shifting, emotional beat, it stands as one of the quintessential autumn songs of the 2000s.
A bird that cannot flyyuzu
When it comes to Yuzu’s songs, people often think of a bright and energetic vibe, but they also have poignant numbers that suit the sentimental air of autumn.
This track portrays a protagonist—like a bird that has been hurt and can no longer fly well—who, holding onto the kindness they once received, tries to take a step forward again.
Rather than simply sinking, its uplifting message about rising back up warms the listener’s heart.
Released in October 2000, the song was used as the theme for the drama “Wipe Your Tears” and was also included on the album “Tobira” that same year.
If you’ve suffered a setback, listening to it at autumn dusk might just give you the strength to face forward again.
Moon DropsRUI
A song by Kou Shibasaki, a female singer who is also active as an entrepreneur and actress, captivating fans with her mysterious aura.
It was used as both an insert song and the main theme for the film “Yomigaeri,” and released as the second single under the name RUI, the character Shibasaki plays in the movie.
Its ethereal arrangement and Japanese-inspired melodies evoke a mystical depth that perfectly matches the title.
It’s a dramatic, heart-stirring number you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the autumn night sky with the moon floating above.
Twilight RomancePorunogurafiti
This is Porno Graffitti’s 16th single.
Back in November 2004, it became a hot topic as the theme song for the NTV drama “Who Is Most Important to You?” The arrangement—beautiful strings that evoke an autumn twilight woven together with warm guitar tones—perfectly matches the sentimental mood of the season as the air turns chilly.
With lyrics that feel like reaffirming your feelings for the person who truly matters at life’s turning points and an emotional vocal performance that resonates in your heart, it’s a gem of a ballad you’ll want to savor on long autumn nights.
WILLNakajima Mika
Released in 2002 as the theme song for the drama “Stargazing,” this track is beloved by many as one of Mika Nakashima’s signature works.
Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrical words and Daisuke Kawaguchi’s memorable melody blend beautifully, resonating deeply with listeners.
The worldview of the lyrics—looking back on the past while gazing toward the future—seems to reflect the subtleties of our hearts as we stand at life’s crossroads.
It might be nice to look up at the night sky and reflect on the path you’ve taken so far.
Septemberaiko
If you’re looking for a love song that evokes the arrival of early autumn, “September” is a great pick.
Beloved across generations, singer-songwriter aiko included it on her 2001 album “Natsufuku” (Summer Clothes).
Its jazzy piano tones conjure autumnal scenes.
Many listeners will relate to the cute lyrics that make you find yourself thinking about someone you like.
It’s a number that stays close to the feeling of “I fell in love in summer and can’t forget them even as autumn comes.” Why not let her voice, which wraps your worries and loneliness in warmth, soothe you?
Have you seen the crimson-red sky?BUMP OF CHICKEN
While it carries a somewhat wistful atmosphere, it’s a song filled with hope.
Motoo Fujiwara’s delicate vocals and melody seep into the heart.
Released in June 2008, it was included on the album “aurora arc.” At live performances, parts of the lyrics are sometimes changed, which is one of the charms that offers fans a fresh experience.
Listening to it while gazing at the sky on an autumn evening will likely let you immerse yourself even more deeply in the song’s world.
The autumn songELLEGARDEN
A song by the four-piece rock band ELLEGARDEN, whose massive influence on the Japanese rock scene since the 2000s and almost deified, fervent popularity are undeniable.
Originally included as the B-side to their 4th single “Missing,” this rock tune is so beloved by fans that it was also featured on their best-of album.
While the arrangement has a driving sense of speed, the somewhat wistful melody carries both the briskness and melancholy of autumn.
The delicate ensemble within the powerful sound lifts your spirits—a true autumn song, just as its title suggests, packed with ELLEGARDEN’s signature appeal.
Ms. SeptemberRADWIMPS
From tricky rock tunes to deep, expansive ballads, RADWIMPS—a four-piece rock band drawing attention for their broad musicality and approach—deliver a track that stands out.
Featured on their major-label debut album, “RADWIMPS 3: Mujintou ni Motte Iki Wasureta Ichimai,” the title refers to “September 3,” the date of the band’s first-ever solo concert.
The lyrics, which vividly depict an autumn landscape, pair with the airy guitar sound to evoke a nostalgic feeling.
Simple yet showcasing the band’s remarkable expressive power, it’s a hidden gem among autumn songs.
cosmos (flower)Moriyama Naotaro
This is a song by Naotaro Moriyama that delicately depicts an autumn scene.
Released in November 2002, the track had a modest start, debuting at No.
80, but went on to reach No.
1 in its ninth week—an achievement not seen in 13 years since KAN’s “Ai wa Katsu.” The lyrics capture the small, everyday moments, and Moriyama’s characteristically gentle voice beautifully conveys both the wistfulness and warmth of autumn.
As you watch flowers blooming on the balcony sway in the wind, why not reflect on the bond you share with someone dear?