Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
We’ve put together a collection of love songs that were hits in the 2000s.
When you think of hit songs from the 2000s, what tracks come to mind?
For those who spent their youth in that era, you might recall so many classics that it’s hard to choose just one.
This isn’t a list of every song that charted between 2000 and 2009, but we’re highlighting beloved love songs that almost everyone has heard at least once—timeless favorites that are still cherished as staples of romance today.
If you’re feeling nostalgic for those days, be sure to give them a listen!
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Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular J‑Pop songs (11–20)
MiracleGReeeeN
A song that became the theme for the drama “ROOKIES” and drew a lot of attention.
Many people probably related to the lyrics, which feel like writing a letter to someone you love.
Things we can’t usually say out loud can be conveyed when we put them into words.
It feels like a love song filled with everyone’s feelings.
Just… I want to see youEXILE
It’s a love song that expresses the heartache of not being able to meet someone anymore, yet being unable to suppress the desire to see them.
It’s a track by the popular dance-vocal group EXILE, released in 2005 as their 19th single.
A very slow ballad, it features ATSUSHI’s beautiful vocals that resonate deeply.
The words of regret—‘Back then, I didn’t understand anything’—really hit home.
Even now, long after its release, it still ranks high on karaoke charts.
Love so sweetarashi
Hearing the chorus makes you want to sing along, doesn’t it? This song by the nationally beloved idol group Arashi was released in 2007 as their 18th single.
It was the theme song for the drama Hana Yori Dango 2 (Returns), starring group member Jun Matsumoto.
The lyrics—about never forgetting the feelings of love you hold in this very moment—are totally heart-fluttering.
The refreshing melody and bright, clear vocals are irresistible.
It also made waves in 2011 when the rock band GLAY covered it.
summer festivalWhiteberry
Many of you might find that this song brings back memories of summer vacation.
It’s a track by the girl band Whiteberry, released as their third single in 2000.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Fushigi na Hanashi,” it became a major hit, and the group earned a spot in the 51st NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen with this song.
It’s a nostalgic piece that recalls a short summer spent with someone special, and listening to it can make you feel like you’re the protagonist of the story.
By the way, it’s a cover of a song by the band JITTERIN’JINN.
See you tomorrow.Every Little Thing
A gentle acoustic guitar sets a comfortable mood in this 25th single.
Evolving from their early, sparkling sound toward an acoustic resonance, it’s a gem of a ballad that fully showcases Kaori Mochida’s warm vocals.
Centered on everyday greetings, it softly portrays the sense of security shared with someone dear.
Released in November 2003, the song became widely loved as the theme for the drama “Pure Love III” and in commercials for Hachimitsu Kinkan throat lozenges.
It was also performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, leaving a lasting impression on many.
Listen at the end of the day, and you’ll likely feel your taut nerves unwind into calm.
It’s a number that stays by your side when you need a quiet breath amid busy days.
love letterEvery Little Thing
A sublime ballad you’ll find yourself wanting to hear when winter’s chill sinks into your bones.
It opens with a tranquil piano tone, gradually layered with strings, as if pent-up feelings were beginning to overflow.
Kaori Mochida’s delicate breath work gently conveys the subtle shades of emotions that words can’t capture.
Released by Every Little Thing in December 2004, the song became widely beloved as the theme for the film “A Love Letter from Heaven” and as a cough drop commercial tune.
It topped the Oricon weekly chart and was performed on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, capturing the hearts of many.
Perfect for times when you want to reaffirm how much someone means to you, or when you’re in the mood for a heartwarming moment.
Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs (21–30)
AitaiKato Miria
A bittersweet, sorrowful love number dedicated to someone you love who’s thinking about someone else.
It’s a song by Miliyah Kato, a singer-songwriter from Aichi Prefecture, included on her fourth album, “Ring,” released in 2009.
It was such a hit that the ringtone version alone was downloaded 700,000 times.
“I want to see you, no matter what… no matter what…”—the feelings overflowing from the lyrics tighten our chests as well.
Only happy moments don’t define ‘romance,’ do they…?