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!
- Ballad songs that were hits in the 2000s
- Breakup songs that were hits in the 2000s
- [Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!
- 2000s: A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics
- Top Female Singer-Songwriters and Popular Songs of the 2000s [2026]
- 2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
- Heart-wrenching Japanese hit songs from the 2000s. Songs that make you cry.
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- Heisei-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period.
- [Japanese Music] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A roundup of hit songs from 00s J-POP
- Songs to give to your lover or someone you like. Love songs devoted wholeheartedly to your boyfriend or girlfriend.
- A roundup of hit love songs from the ’90s
- A melancholic “yami” song that was a hit in the 2000s. A bittersweet track.
Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular J-Pop songs (41–50)
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.
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.
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.
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.
cherry blossomKawaguchi Kyogo
As the title suggests, it’s a love song you’ll want to listen to in spring.
The lyrics, which feel like a vow of eternal love—always by your side, welcoming the cherry blossom season again and again with you—make my heart flutter.
Among the many sakura songs, this is one I can never forget.
SaudadePorunogurafiti
It’s a bittersweet, fleeting love song about the moments right before parting.
What’s more, even though it’s sung by a male vocalist, it’s told from a woman’s perspective.
And yet, I feel it also captures the man’s feelings—harboring a faint hope that hints at the future, as if saying, “Let’s meet again someday.”
CHU-LIPOtsuka Ai
Singer-songwriter Ai Otsuka, who has created numerous classics thanks to her wide expressive range—from cute, bubbly tunes to heart-wrenching ballads.
This is her 14th single, released in February 2007, a playful pop number that combines tulips with kisses on the lips.
It was selected as the theme song for the TBS drama “Kira Kira Kenshui” and was also performed at the 58th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen later that year.
The song captivates with lyrics that explore the thrill of love as if at the genetic level, paired with a buoyant sound that makes your body move.
With its signature live choreography, it’s a happy anthem that makes you want to sing and dance with someone—an emblematic track of 2007.