Tear-jerking love songs: classic and popular hits from Japanese music
There are times when you just feel like crying, right?
Among those moments, I’ve picked out some Japanese songs that sing about love.
I think they’ll bring a tear to your eye.
It’s also nice to share them with your special someone.
And if there are songs you don’t know, be sure to tell your classmates about them, too.
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Tear-jerking love songs. Japanese classics and popular tracks (91–100)
Flower of loveaimyon
Hit-maker Aimyon crafted the theme song for the serial TV drama Ranman to feel like a springtime stroll.
Carried by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, it unfolds a magical world where feelings for a loved one blossom into flowers.
Released in April 2023, the song has become emblematic of Aimyon’s musical career.
With the line “Tears are for tomorrow,” her voice sings hope for flowers that will bloom someday, offering comfort to every listener.
It’s a track anyone can layer their own story onto—those hurt by love, those thinking of someone precious.
Surely, a flower of love will bloom in your heart, too.
Goodchanmina
Rapper Chanmina, who commands three languages and has gained support from the younger generation with her impactful rap, is making waves.
“Good,” the opening track of her fourth album, Naked, features a relaxed beat and a breezy, light sound that feels great.
The lyrics, which capture her present-tense feelings toward a former lover, will likely resonate with many who’ve experienced that complexity.
It’s a sentimental, heart-wrenching number with a uniquely floating, atmospheric vibe.
Tear-Jerking Love Songs: Japanese Classics and Popular Tracks (101–110)
spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota
A gemlike love song woven from evanescent yet beautiful poetic expressions and a crystal-clear singing voice.
While skillfully depicting scenes from nature, it delicately conveys the feelings of thinking about someone dear.
When Tota posted it on social media in June 2021, it quickly sparked a huge response.
In December 2022, it was selected as the tie-in song for a Pure Gummy web commercial, and the full version was released in February of the following year.
Recommended for those who want to face everyday reality while feeling the sorrow of losing someone precious and the strength to keep looking forward.
Goodbye to youKaneyori Masaru
Kaneyori Masaru is a three-piece rock band whose name was chosen because using a person’s name felt familiar and easy to think of.
Their song “Kimi ni Sayonara,” released on October 18, 2023, makes a strong impression with an opening defined by a wistful vocal and guitar sound.
The lyrics, which depict the complex emotions after a breakup, evoke a realism that can’t be summed up as simply sad or lonely.
It’s a melancholic number whose sentimental melody stirs the heart.
Tearful KissSazan Ōrusutāzu
A bittersweet yet beautiful melody that seeps into the heart, this ballad delicately portrays the protagonist’s sorrow and lingering feelings as they face a breakup with a lover.
The emotionally rich vocals woven by Southern All Stars, together with a simple instrumental arrangement, convey the pain of heartbreak with striking clarity.
Released in July 1992, it drew major attention as the theme song for the drama “Zutto Anata ga Suki Datta.” It became Southern All Stars’ first million-selling single and won the Excellence Award at the 34th Japan Record Awards.
Whether you’re seeking to heal the sadness of parting or reminiscing about past love, this song gently stays by your side—and continues to be a source of comfort for many to this day.
KanadeSukima Suichi
This is Sukima Switch’s second single, released in 2004.
The song was featured as an insert track in the film “Rough,” and a rearranged version titled “Kanade for One Week Friends” was adopted as the theme song for this year’s film “One Week Friends.”
Super Ultra I LOVE YOUSenchimirimentaru
A song by Centimillimental that sings a passionate love confession.
Chosen as the theme song for the film “Given: Hiiragi mix,” it was released for early streaming in January 2024.
Its up-tempo rhythm, guitar sound, and powerful vocals blend beautifully, stirring the listener’s heart.
The lyrics, which express feelings of love in a straightforward way, portray a range of captivating emotions and the blindness of love—making you nod in recognition.
When you want to honestly convey your feelings to someone important but feel too shy to put them into words… listening to this track might be just what you need.