RAG MusicFriendship Songs
A lovely friendship song

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 (11–20)

Dear.achanyu i

A heartwarming number by Chanyu-i that sings of gratitude to an irreplaceable best friend and a bond that will never change.

It conveys honest feelings toward a friend—someone even more precious than a lover.

Originally released in December 2020, a band arrangement version came out in 2022 and was used as an insert song for a segment on ABEMA’s “High-Teen Bible.” It was written at the request of a best friend during the artist’s early childhood education student days, and the story of how it resonated widely on social media is lovely, isn’t it? This work reminds us anew of the importance of friends who stay by our side in both joyful and difficult times.

usual membersriria.

riria. / Itsumen. [Music Video]
usual membersriria.

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.

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro – Best Friend ~Mother Earth Version~ ※Disney/Pixar “The Good Dinosaur” Japan-version end song
Best FriendKiroro

When it comes to songs themed around friendship, this track by Kiroro comes to mind.

It’s a warm song that expresses gratitude and the importance of bonds.

Released in June 2001, it was also used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Churasan.” Its gentle tones, centered on piano and acoustic guitar, harmonize beautifully with the emotions in the lyrics.

Loved by many as the perfect song for life’s milestones—such as graduation ceremonies and weddings—this piece is ideal for reflecting on memories with dear friends or conveying your gratitude.

GarnetOku Hanako

Hanako Oku / Garnet (Solo Performance) [Music Video]
GarnetOku Hanako

It was released as Oku Hanako’s fourth single and became the theme song for the animated film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.

Among her singles at the time, it recorded the highest sales.

The gemstone meaning of garnet is “friendship” and “affection,” which also serves as a theme of the film.

Thank youikimonogakari

Arigatou – Ikimono-gakari (Full)
Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari’s song captivates with its heartwarming melody and sincere lyrics.

It expresses a wide range of gratitude, from everyday thanks to deep appreciation.

Released in December 2010, it was chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon chart and received the Excellence Award at the 52nd Japan Record Awards, earning high acclaim.

It’s the perfect track when you want to renew your feelings of gratitude toward friends or look back on memories with someone important.

Listening together is sure to deepen your bond.

Stand by MeSaucy Dog

This song features a heartwarming melody that reminds us of the value of friendship.

The guitar riff, evocative of a youthful snapshot, paints vivid memories and gently envelops the listener.

Shinya Ishihara of Saucy Dog delivers a refreshing vocal performance that openly conveys the emotion of parting from and reuniting with friends, resonating deeply with the heart.

Included on the mini-album “Blue Period,” released in October 2019, the track explores the struggles of growing from adolescence into adulthood, with lyrics that blend tenderness and poignancy.

Listening to this piece will renew your gratitude for those you cherish and make you want to see them again.

Songs themed around friendship. Tracks that convey the importance of friends (21–30)

friendHoshino Gen

A song by Gen Hoshino that everyone knows perfectly expresses the importance of friendship.

Written specifically for Audrey’s Tokyo Dome performance, it was released in December 2023.

Set to a lively melody, it celebrates the bonds between friends and the value of everyday, casual conversations.

The long-standing friendship between Gen Hoshino and Audrey is woven into the track, making it a song that deeply resonates with listeners.

It’s perfect for times when you want to look back on memories with friends or feel the bond with someone special.