The world of Japanese laments that sublimate sorrow and wistfulness into beautiful melodies.
From the desolate scenes woven by RC Succession led by Kiyoshiro Imawano, to the soul-stirring poetic realm of Agata Morio, and even the transparent feelings sung by the VOCALOID GUMI.
Timeless masterpieces that have continued to stay close to people’s hearts speak of heartbreak, loneliness, farewells…
They carry the cries of the soul felt in many moments of life.
Alongside vocals that quietly seep into the heart, they invite you into a deeply moving world.
- A classic of poignant, heartwarming songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- A classic Japanese song that sings of sorrow
- A masterpiece that sings of loneliness. Recommended popular songs.
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- [Hometown Songs] A curated selection of popular Japanese tracks that fill your heart with nostalgia
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- A hidden gem among tearjerker songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Masterpieces with the theme of “tears.” A roundup of moving tracks that tug at the heartstrings.
- [Kyoto Songs] Masterpieces that sing about Kyoto — songs themed on the ancient capital. The enduring heart of our hometown passed down in song.
- The Spirit of Japan: A Collection of Famous and Popular Shamisen Pieces
- For When You Need a Good Cry: Soul-Soothing Tearjerker Classics — Life, Love, and Work
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
The soul’s cry woven into Japanese elegies: Unraveling sublime, heart-stirring masterpieces (1–10)
cosmos (flower)Yamaguchi Momoe
Released in October 1977.
Up to then, Momoe Yamaguchi had mostly performed urban, defiant songs, so fans were startled when she suddenly sang a piece from the perspective of a bride leaving home, addressed to her mother.
The song was written and composed by Masashi Sada, who also performs it himself.
ElegyHirai Ken
Among current artists known for their beautifully melancholic voices, Ken Hirai would be a prime example.
This song, Elegy, is his 25th single, released in January 2007.
It also served as the theme song for the film Love’s Cruelty, which drew attention for its R-15 rating.
ElfAdo
A sweeping tale that evokes the legendary elves known for their solitude is vividly brought to life by Ado’s overwhelming vocal power.
Amid an endless journey, the story of a soul that faces itself and overcomes conflict and anguish is deeply moving.
Set to air from January 2025 as the theme song for TBS’s Friday drama “Who Saw the Peacock Dance?”, it resonates perfectly with the emotions of the protagonist played by Suzu Hirose.
Embracing the loneliness and sorrow felt along the path of struggle, this work becomes a song that speaks to the hearts of all who find the courage to move forward.
Asakusa KidBīto Takeshi
Included on the album “Asakusa Kid,” released in August 1986.
Beat Takeshi himself wrote and composed the song while reflecting on his days as an unknown Asakusa performer.
The melancholic lyrics are moving even if you’re not a comedian.
As a side note, the manzai duo Asakusa Kid was formed in 1987.
How to Love AfterimagesTele
A delicate sonic world, woven to gently embrace the pain and regret that lie deep within the heart.
Riding on Tele’s slowly flowing, lyrical melodies, the song about a lost love quietly stays close to the listener’s heart.
The tender, almost whispering vocals and the dreamlike soundscape that seems to reflect a city at night create a space filled with a familiar, aching nostalgia.
Released in February 2025, this work serves as the theme song for Tele’s nationwide tour, coloring 12 shows across 9 cities starting in March.
It’s a song that gently accompanies those who have experienced parting with a loved one or who carry unspoken feelings in their hearts.
reverse dreamKing Gnu
This song captured the hearts of many as a soul-stirring, grand ballad.
It features a beautiful piano melody and sweeping string arrangements, with lyrics that poignantly intertwine sorrow and hope.
Released in December 2021, it was selected as the ending theme for the popular anime film Jujutsu Kaisen 0.
The delicate sound design characteristic of King Gnu and the lyrics that align with the film’s worldview are a perfect match.
It’s a recommended track for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or farewells, or for anyone who wants to feel the bond with someone dear.
The heart-penetrating vocals are moving and will warmly envelop your heart.
KanadeSukima Suichi
A signature song by Sukima Switch, known for its deeply moving melody and poignant lyrics.
Portraying the moment of parting—with the uncommon twist of a woman being the one who leaves—it stirs the listener’s heart.
Released in June 2004, it became widely known through its popularity at karaoke.
Many will relate to the narrator, “I,” who watches over and cheers on “you” as you grow.
It’s a recommended track for those who have experienced a farewell with someone important or who want to support someone they care about.
Its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody are sure to bring comfort.