A song themed around friendship. A track that conveys the importance of friends.
There are times in life when you’re saved by friends, and times when you argue with them—moments that make you feel just how big a part friends play in your life.
This time, we’ve gathered a selection of Japanese songs that sing about friendship.
Listening to these tracks, you may feel that it’s thanks to friendship that you’ve been able to help each other in tough times and overcome various hardships together.
Each song is wonderful, and they’ll help you once again appreciate how important friends are and how precious friendship is—so be sure to check them out!
These songs might even make you want to go see the friend who comes to mind as you listen.
A song themed around friendship. A track that conveys the importance of friends (1–10)
primary colorsYOASOBI
This is a heartwarming song themed around bonds between people and reunion.
Released by YOASOBI in July 2021, it was also used as NTT Docomo’s “ahamo” commercial song and resonated with many listeners.
The lyrics are sprinkled with colorful expressions, depicting the moment when three friends who had grown distant reconnect.
Blending narrative-rich lyrics with a light, catchy melody, it’s filled with YOASOBI’s signature charm.
It’s a recommended track for those hoping to reunite with someone important or wishing to cherish past memories.
Give it a listen when you want to feel the importance of friendship.
2gether 4everNEW!AYANE
Sung by singer-songwriter AYANE, this piece portrays a friendship that supports each other across physical distance.
It captures a down-to-earth relationship—confiding worries over the phone and lifting each other up—and wraps listeners’ hearts in warmth.
Released in March 2023, the song is also included on the album “#Twenty.” Its R&B-tinged, comfortable melody makes it easy to sincerely express gratitude to a friend, which is part of its charm.
If you’ve been asked to do a performance as the bride’s best friend, it could be lovely to play this song as BGM while showing a slideshow of your memories.
The message of “let’s stay friends forever” is sure to fill the venue with a moving atmosphere.
StoryAI
This is a song that weaves a heartwarming story of friendship.
AI wrote the lyrics herself, singing about the bonds with someone precious.
It conveys the value of a relationship in which people support each other through life.
Released in May 2005, the song resonated with many and stayed on the charts for an extended period.
It was also selected as the Japanese ending theme for the film Big Hero 6, and is loved by a wide range of generations.
With AI’s powerful vocals and moving lyrics, this piece is perfect for times when you want to reaffirm your bonds with someone important or encourage someone in need.
You are my friend.NEW!UNISON SQUARE GARDEN
A signature ballad by UNISON SQUARE GARDEN that gently brings you closer to someone dear, with warmth like spring sunlight.
Featured near the end of their February 2013 album “CIDER ROAD,” this piece showcases a calm ensemble—distinct from their trademark high-speed rock—that’s part of its charm.
Through the act of calling someone’s name, it conveys a message of opening a slightly timid heart and reconnecting, making it perfect for this season of new encounters.
Rather than flashy words, vocals that feel palpably warm will surely give you a reassuring push.
Give it a listen when you want to be honest with someone important to you.
usual membersNEW!riria.
Lilia’s song vividly captures the precious time spent with the usual crew and the sparkle of youth.
It’s a warm, emotional track that reminds us of the irreplaceable friendships built in the everyday moments.
You can’t help but feel that wishful ache—if only those times laughing with friends could last forever.
Released in October 2022, the song was featured in Universal Studios Japan’s “Escape the Usual Tonight” commercial.
Ryo Nagano’s slightly mature sound design amplifies Lilia’s down-to-earth lyrics.
It’s a number you’ll want to listen to in spring—when you’re meeting new companions and hoping to make many memories—while thinking of the dear friends who mean so much.