[For when you want to cry or feel sad] Tear-jerking masterpieces that make you cry when you listen
Even when you feel like crying, it’s not as easy to shed tears as it was when you were a child once you’ve grown up.
In this article, we’ll introduce a variety of songs perfect for when you want to cry—from tear-jerking melodies to moving masterpieces.
These are all tracks you can listen to alone at home and really let the tears flow.
We’ve gathered everything from classics to the latest hits: songs that help you free the part of yourself that can’t cry, and songs that stay close to your pain and lift you up.
Find that one song that speaks to your heart—and let yourself have a good, cathartic cry.
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- The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music, recommended popular songs.
[For when you want to cry or feel sad] Tear-jerking masterpieces that make you cry when you listen (61–70)
Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi
This is the song chosen as the theme for the drama “Love That Makes You Cry.” It’s sung by Aoi Teshima, a singer from Fukuoka known for songs like “Teri’s Song.” It was released in 2016 as her fifth single.
As the title suggests, the lyrics read like a letter, expressing a hopeful wish for you to keep moving toward your dreams, even if only little by little.
When thinking about the future makes you feel afraid, this song is sure to help.
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
A signature song by Mayo Okamoto that’s also beloved as a cheer-up anthem.
Released in 1995, it became a huge hit.
Surprisingly, “TOMORROW” was her debut single.
Knowing the story behind it—that her grandfather, who opposed her move to Tokyo to pursue singing, wrote to her, “Life is full of tears”—makes the song resonate even more.
Warm lyrics over a bell-like backing track.
How many people has it given courage to? It’s a timeless classic that will never fade.
paintingŌmori Motoki
This work reveals a new side of him as a solo artist—one that stirs the heart deeply.
Released in May 2025 as part of Motoki Omori’s first solo digital single in about four years, it’s marked by quiet, mysterious soundscapes that seem to gently speak to the listener’s inner self.
The lyrics express a poignant wish: for someone to portray his existence using colors only he possesses, and to see even the parts of himself that feel wretched as something beautiful.
It’s a song whose warm melody soothes deep sorrow and loneliness, leaving a lasting impression.
Put it on during a quiet night when you want to be alone with your thoughts.
glowing madder-redAimer
A poignant ballad that sings of the loneliness of being all alone.
It’s a song by Aimer, the singer known for works like “ONE” and “I beg you,” released in 2016 as her 12th single.
It drew attention when it was chosen as the ending theme for the anime Natsume’s Book of Friends Go.
The transparent vocals and grand soundscape complement each other, adding depth to the song’s world.
For example, if someone who recently went through a breakup listens to it, it will surely strike a chord.
KoiAndrop
This song “koi” starts with a moving, tear-jerking chorus.
Haven’t we all felt this way before—haven’t we all experienced a love this bittersweet? Released in 2019 as androp’s 11th single, it’s a poignant love song that also served as the theme for the film “Until I Meet September’s Love.” In the end, it’s unclear whether the story reaches a happy ending or not, but the feeling of being hopelessly in love comes through painfully clearly.
The melody, too, carries an emotional weight that tightens the chest.
The sky of TokyoOda Kazumasa
This piece was selected as the theme song for the drama “Soredemo, Ikite Yuku” (“Still, We Live On”).
It’s a song by singer-songwriter Kazumasa Oda, who has led the Japanese music scene for many years, and it’s included on his eighth album, “Domo,” released in 2011.
The lyrics, which look back on one’s life while thinking of someone with whom you’ve shared time, carry a message that will resonate with anyone.
If you’re feeling worn out by daily life, why not listen to this song and take a moment to calm your heart?
HikariAndrop
This song was the theme for the 2018 drama “Good Doctor.” With its easy-to-listen voice and captivating melody, it became a popular hit.
The message is: “If you, who saved me from the darkness of despair, are suffering, then I want to save you.” May every day with you shine brightly.
It’s a song that helps you stay positive.
If you listen when you feel like crying, it will surely help you take the first step forward.