Unrequited love songs recommended for college students: classic and popular Japanese tracks

DAYSanyuusuresu

Anyuseless “DAYS” MV

Any Useless is a five-piece rock band from Osaka.

Their song “DAYS,” which has been gaining attention mainly on social media like Instagram, is a one-sided-love track highlighted by a gentle, appealing vocal.

The biggest draw is the lyrics: the choice of words feels so real and relatable, like something straight out of everyday life.

While poetic lyrics with a fantastical worldview can be great, lyrics written in down-to-earth language like in this song can really hit you in the heart.

The performance is also refreshing despite its mid-tempo pace, so that’s another aspect worth paying attention to when you listen.

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the depths of the heartrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “In the Depths of the Heart” / Rokudenashi – Deep Down [Official Music Video]

A bittersweet love ballad by Rokudenashi that resonates deeply.

It weaves delicate words about the loneliness that comes at dusk and the urgent feelings hidden behind a smile.

While yearning to be loved, the wavering heart that hesitates to face its true feelings seeps in along with gentle piano melodies.

Released in February 2025 as the lead track from the album “Sigh,” this song reaches out to those who, even while carrying wounded, unsettled hearts, try to look ahead with cherished memories held close.

waiting in vainrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “Left Waiting” / Rokudenashi – Stood Me Up [Official Music Video]

This is a work by Rokudenashi, who began activities in 2021, delicately depicting the emotions of unrequited love.

The subtle shifts of a heart that can’t quite face the other person’s kindness, and the loneliness of being able only to watch them talk with someone else, leave a strong impression.

The vocals woven by Ninjin carry a warmth that feels like it gently heats the heart on a quiet winter night.

Written and composed by Hifumi, the song was released as a single in October 2021.

It’s a track that stands beside those troubled by love, offering empathy and comfort.

For anyone who holds a painful feeling they can’t confess to anyone—their love for someone dear—this song is meant for you.

Why not me?Misaka Saki

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

This song delicately portrays the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love.

They were close as friends, but before he knew it, romantic feelings had begun to grow.

Those complex emotions of a boy are expressed through a clear, transparent singing voice.

Released in February 2021 as the theme song for ABEMA’s popular romance reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita” (Today, I Fell in Love), it resonated with many listeners.

It’s a perfect track for anyone struggling with their feelings for a crush.

Listening to this song might give you the courage to take a step forward.

When I realized it, I was in unrequited love.Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Kizuitara Kataomoi' Short Ver.

It’s a song with a bit of a Showa-era vibe.

Love and romance aren’t something you decide to start on your own.

At first, the person just catches your attention, but gradually they take up more and more of your thoughts.

In the end, even as you tell yourself “No, this isn’t it,” you find yourself drawn to them, and before you know it, you’re in unrequited love.

This piece captures that emotional journey.

It’s one of Nogizaka46’s signature works, sung in a gentle, heartfelt style.

unrequited loveOku Hanako

Oku Hanako – Unrequited Love

This song makes you feel like, “So this is what a wonderful love is.” Hanako Oku is a singer-songwriter who came into the spotlight when the theme song for the anime film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time became a hot topic.

Her songs carry very strong messages, which is a big part of what draws many fans to her.

This track is perfect for a woman who steadfastly holds on to her unrequited love.

DaysHamasaki Ayumi

Ayumi Hamasaki / Days (Short Ver.)

It’s a song about wanting to stay in love, even knowing it’s a hopeless romance.

It makes you realize that there are loves where, even if you know the person you like has someone else, their very presence feels like an oasis for your heart.

The song is Ayumi Hamasaki’s 44th single, released in 2008, and it was also used in a commercial for NTT Communications.

It’s a quietly sung ballad.