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 Japanese songs (31–40)
StoryAI
It’s a love song that uses AI’s powerful vocals to sing about a girl’s strength.
There are many songs from a male perspective that say “I’ll protect you,” but aren’t there far fewer that say “I’ll protect you” from a female perspective? It’s a soulful track that feels distinctly AI-like.
cherry blossomKetsumeishi
Throughout the history of J-POP, many artists have released songs themed around “sakura,” and this work, released by Ketsumeishi in February 2005, is one of the most iconic.
Although they are a hip-hop group, their style—blending catchy, singable melodies with emotionally resonant rap—won support from a wide audience.
The lyrics depict memories of a lover who is no longer here, evoked by the sight of cherry blossoms fluttering in the wind.
Even though the scenery remains unchanged, the absence of a loved one creates a sense of loss that tightens the listener’s chest.
Despite having no tie-in, this massive hit sold about 210,000 copies in its first week, and its drama-style music video starring Masato Hagiwara and Emi Suzuki further deepens the song’s world.
It’s also perfect as a BGM for a spring drive when you’re feeling a bit nostalgic about the past.
spoiled childOtsuka Ai
A masterpiece that portrays the bittersweet heart of a girl who can’t be honest in front of the one she likes.
Released in March 2004 as Ai Otsuka’s third single, this song is also well known for its use in Sato Pharmaceutical’s “Stonarhini S” commercial.
The lyrics capture the feelings of a clumsy girl who puts on a brave face even though she really wants to be affectionate—resonating deeply with the gals who blazed through the Heisei era.
The gentle piano tones and Ai Otsuka’s emotional vocals vividly express the wavering feelings of love.
It’s perfect for when you want to confess your feelings to someone you adore, or when you want to show a touch of endearing charm at karaoke.
I like you.Shimizu Shota
A cell phone suddenly rings on a sleepless night.
Starting from that everyday moment, this is an unrequited love song that makes your chest ache.
The protagonist is afraid to take a step forward for fear of breaking the relationship, yet can’t suppress the overflowing feelings.
Shota Shimizu’s sweet, heartrending vocals gently cradle a lovestruck heart.
Released as a single in December 2009, it’s also included on the album Journey.
At the time, it topped mobile distribution charts, capturing the hearts of many young listeners.
It’s a song to play when your feelings for someone are about to spill over, or when you need a little courage.
KISS OF LIFEHirai Ken
A love song abundantly filled with mature lyrics like “Let’s start with a kiss,” all while wrapped in Ken Hirai’s warm voice.
Contrary to those lyrics, its catchy rhythm and melody make it a perfect song to sing at karaoke, in my opinion.
Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular J-Pop songs (41–50)
sparklingaiko
Aiko’s gem of a love song about steadfastly waiting for the one you love.
When he finally comes back, there’s so much she wants to talk about and so many feelings she wants to share—the song is packed to the brim with that excitement.
Women waiting for their partners from afar will likely find strength in this track.
Moon DropsRUI (Shibasaki Kou)
This song, performed by Kou Shibasaki under the character name RUI from the film Yomigaeri, was released in January 2003 as her second single.
As the movie’s theme song, it weaves in classical expressions like “kotonoha” (words) and “utakata” (ephemeral bubbles) to portray the bittersweetness of love under the moonlight.
It debuted at No.
14 on the Oricon chart and reached No.
1 in its fifth week, becoming a long-running hit with total sales of about 830,000 copies.
With a dreamlike string arrangement and a clear, translucent vocal, it’s a track that gently resonates with the heart—perfect for listening on an autumn night while gazing at the moon.