Heart-wrenching Japanese hit songs from the 2000s. Songs that make you cry.
In this article, we’ll introduce tear-jerking Japanese songs that were hits in the 2000s.
The Y2K culture, referring to the era around the year 2000, has been getting renewed attention in the Reiwa period and is creating a buzz.
The J-POP scene of the 2000s featured many classic ballads and emotionally powerful tracks that tug at the heartstrings.
We’ve picked a diverse lineup—from long-running hits and popular songs still sung today to hidden gems.
If you’re from that generation, we recommend reminiscing about those days as you take your time reading through the lyrics.
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Tearjerker Japanese hits from the 2000s: Songs that make you cry (31–40)
planetariumOtsuka Ai
A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.
Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.
Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.
A flower that blooms only hereKobukuro
This is Kobukuro’s 11th single, selected as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “Ruri no Shima.” Released in May 2005, it reached No.
2 on the Oricon charts.
The members actually visited the Okinawan island where the drama is set, and created this work inspired by its atmosphere.
Even in a place that seems to have nothing, irreplaceable value is in bloom—this compassionate message is deeply moving.
Hearing the duo’s warm vocals may prompt many listeners to picture their hometown scenery and the smiles of their loved ones.
I miss you so much, I want to see you.Nishino Kana
It’s a heartbreak song that lets you cry your heart out, especially popular among young women.
Released in 2010, its distinctive lyrical phrases give it a unique character, while the delicate melody evokes a poignant sense of sorrow.
It remains a beloved classic among fans to this day.
StoryAI
Singer-songwriter AI, born in Los Angeles, captivates audiences with a powerful voice honed through gospel.
The lead single from her May 2005 album “Mic-a-holic Ai” is known as an enduring masterpiece of a ballad that brought her name to widespread recognition.
Opening with beautiful piano tones, the song gently stays close to the listener’s heart and delivers a strong message that you are not alone.
Its outstanding lyrics spread into households through radio and other media, and in 2014 it drew renewed attention when it was selected as the Japanese ending theme for the film Big Hero 6.
It’s a defining song of the 2000s that helps us reaffirm our bonds with the people we cherish.
You Go Your WayCHEMISTRY
Released in 2001.
It’s a poignant breakup song about telling yourself that meeting, falling in love, and parting aren’t anyone’s fault—they’re simply fate—and putting on a brave face.
It’s also a masterpiece that can be called one of CHEMISTRY’s signature works following their return to activity.