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.
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- Breakup songs that were hits in the 2000s
- Ballad songs that were hits in the 2000s
- Tear-jerking J-pop from the ’90s. Hit songs and real tearjerkers.
- 2000s: A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics
- Tears won’t stop with these sentimental lyrics! Heisei-era tearjerker songs
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- [So touching it makes you cry] A heartbreakingly wistful and sad song that tightens your chest
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- A melancholic “yami” song that was a hit in the 2000s. A bittersweet track.
- [Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]
- [Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
Tearjerker Japanese songs that were hits in the 2000s. Cry-worthy songs (1–10)
I wonder if it will be sunny tomorrow.Kuwata Keisuke
Ashita Hareru Kana, which was chosen as the theme song for the drama Operation Love (Proposal Daisakusen), was released in 2007 by singer Keisuke Kuwata, the frontman of Southern All Stars.
Its lyrics, which align with the story of repeatedly going back to the past to try again, are deeply moving.
His gentle singing voice, carried by a melody that is both wistful and warm, will give you courage.
It’s a song that teaches the importance of living true to yourself so you won’t have regrets, even if you sometimes look back on the past.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
Secret base ~Kimi ga Kureta Mono~ was released in 2001 by the all-girl rock band ZONE.
It was used as the theme song for the drama Kids War 3: Zakenna yo and is also known as one of their signature tracks.
Characterized by a band performance that unfolds at a medium tempo, it incorporates the soft, airy tones of a Mellotron.
Its wistful yet warm lyrics evoke images of nostalgic childhood scenes and will resonate with the heart.
Sung by the members, who were students at the time, the song spreads a sense of youthful nostalgia.
Why not listen to it while picturing moments spent with a dear friend or a loved one?
Midnight ExpresswayFurawā Kanpanīzu
This song also drew attention in 2021 with Okazaki Taiiku’s cover used in a commercial.
Originally a classic by Flower Companyz, it was released as a single in 2004.
The hard-hitting chorus lines are striking, and its straightforward lyrics are widely appreciated.
It carries a passionate warmth that acknowledges anxieties about tomorrow and the future while affirming the feelings everyone keeps in their hearts.
The pursuit of youthful brilliance never ends.
The band’s ensemble and Keisuke Suzuki’s impassioned vocals are deeply moving, offering support through difficult times.
Just… I miss youEXILE
Tada Aitakute, released in 2005 by EXILE, one of Japan’s premier dance and vocal groups.
It also drew attention as a campaign song for au × EXILE, with its ringtone version available for download.
The beautiful melody, featuring strings and synths, evokes a pure love for someone dear.
ATSUSHI’s warm vocals convey a passionate feeling as well.
It’s an essential masterpiece when talking about winter ballads of the 2000s.
Lend an ear to the sound that gently envelops loneliness and solitude.
tear(s)Ketsumeishi
Ketsumeishi is a music group that led Japan’s hip-hop scene in the 2000s, known for songs with messages that speak directly to people’s hearts.
Among their tracks, one that gently embraces sentimental feelings is “Namida” (Tears), released in 2004.
Set to a hip-hop-style beat, it portrays people striving toward their dreams and goals.
It’s a song that can give you strength when you feel like crying your heart out or when your spirits are about to break.
Let yourself be soothed by their rich choral work, which carries the performance from the rap parts through to the soaring chorus.