A ballad song about unrequited love

Why not me?Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Isn’t It Fine If It’s Me (Full ver.)

This song by Saki Misaka portrays the bittersweet feelings of gradually falling in love, even though you thought you were content just staying close as a friend.

With a clear, gentle voice, she expresses the conflict of wishing for the other person’s happiness while not wanting to see them with someone else.

Released digitally in February 2021, the track was also chosen as the theme song for ABEMA’s romantic reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.” It’s sure to resonate with those who, despite knowing what would bring happiness, can’t let go, and who sense the other person’s feelings yet can’t bring themselves to speak up.

I don’t want to see you; I want to see you.Ueno Yūka

Yuka Ueno “Don’t Want to See You, Want to See You” Music Video

A ballad by Yuuka Ueno that sets painfully bittersweet scenes of heartbreak—so vivid they make your chest ache just remembering—against a simple, piano-led melody.

Six months after the breakup, the protagonist’s heart is still tangled in conflicting emotions born from being unable to forget their former lover: aching to see them, yet not wanting to.

Included on the January 2019 album “Sukina Hito wa Anata datta” (“You Were the One I Loved”), this song is sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has gone through a breakup and still hasn’t sorted out their feelings.

When they suddenly come to mind in a quiet moment, why not listen to this track and face your true feelings?

Time-Limited Unrequited LoveNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Time-Limited Unrequited Love'

A gentle, coming-of-age love song that tenderly embraces the fragility of unrequited feelings.

It’s an original track by the 6th generation members, included on Nogizaka46’s 38th single “Navel Orange,” released in March 2025.

The scenes painted by Yasushi Akimoto’s spun lyrics and the sound crafted by 3grass and Yuta Asao feel like a moment from a film.

If you’re about to graduate and can’t find the courage to confess to the one you like, this song might give you the push you need.

just a littleIgarashi Haru

Haru Igarashi – A Little (Official Music Video)

A song whose heartrending, soul-stirring vocals move every listener.

With delicate wording, it weaves a poignant love swayed by the whims of fate—encounters that come at the wrong time.

Haru Igarashi is a singer-songwriter with the unusual background of being a former police officer.

Released in March 2024, this work has drawn major attention, topping the Billboard JAPAN Heatseekers Songs chart for two consecutive weeks.

The line about pretending to like what the other person likes just to stay by their side is so earnest it tightens the chest.

Song of LoveKōda Kumi

Kumi Koda / “Ai no Uta” (from the new album “WINTER of LOVE”)

A smash hit unrequited-love song by Kumi Koda, an artist who continues to lead Japan’s music scene with universally acclaimed, powerhouse vocals and breathtaking live performances.

This ballad, which expresses feelings for a beloved person you’ll never meet again, has become a staple heartbreak number.

Goodbye-byeTomioka Ai

Ai Tomioka – Goodbye Bye (Music Video)

A delicate song by Ai Tomioka that sings of a love so pure it almost hurts.

The transparent vocals capture the frustrating feeling of almost closing the distance with someone, yet never quite getting there.

Even while knowing the other person has someone special, the complicated emotions of being unable to let go resonate deeply.

Released in September 2023, it captured many hearts, reaching the Top 10 on Spotify’s Viral charts in six Asian countries.

The song is memorable for its blend of English and Japanese lyrics and its catchy melodic line.

It’s a track that comforts anyone holding onto unspoken feelings for someone they love, or struggling with a love that may never come true.

remainingYoshizawa Kayoko

Kayoko Yoshizawa 'Left Behind' MUSIC VIDEO

A song by Kayoko Yoshizawa that gently cradles the pain of heartbreak.

The feelings of a protagonist who cannot forget a love that has passed are delicately portrayed alongside the scene of returning home at dawn.

The repeated plea of “Don’t go” carries the aching desire to hold on to a lover who is slipping away.

Released in October 2017, the track was recorded in response to fervent requests from fans.

It’s said that Yoshizawa’s childhood loneliness and unrequited emotions form the foundation of her songwriting.

A soul-stirring piece you’ll want to listen to alone on a long night.

When you’re bearing the pain of a broken heart, this song may gently wrap around yours.