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)
cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai
For most people, this was probably the song that introduced them to Ai Otsuka.
It’s an upbeat love song that captures a girl’s feelings to the brim.
The music video is super cute, and it’s sure to get everyone hyped when sung at karaoke.
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.
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.
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.
Peach-Colored Unrequited LoveMatsuura Aya
Released in February 2002 as Aya Matsuura’s fifth single, this song was featured in Shiseido’s “Tissera Mune-Kyun Peach” commercial, which also drew attention for Matsuura’s own appearance.
It peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, sold over 220,000 copies, and was included on the album T.W.O.
The lyrics liken the flutter of unrequited love to a peach-pink hue, and the bouncy melody that kicks off with a shouted call is instantly memorable—just listening to it lifts your spirits.
It’s the perfect track for getting hyped at karaoke with friends after school or for those heart-pounding moments when you’re nursing a crush.
Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular J-Pop songs (41–50)
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.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
If you grew up with Kids War, this is a song that’s sure to get you hyped.
You can’t help but want to follow its story-driven, sentimental lyrics.
It’s the kind of love song you’ll suddenly want to play at the end of summer, to reminisce about those nostalgic days of youth.