Moving and iconic anime songs, popular tracks
From the latest anime songs to nostalgic national favorites everyone knows—opening themes, insert songs, ending themes—we present a selection of tear-jerking anime tracks, featuring classic and popular picks recommended by our editorial staff.
Some parts that were cut in the TV broadcast versions are included here—why not listen to the full-length versions from this list?
You’ll surely get chills when you discover deeper lyrics or keywords that tie directly into the anime’s scenes.
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Moving anime song masterpieces and popular tracks (71–80)
SymphonyMakino Yui
Used as an insert song in ARIA The ANIMATION, it’s a piece that captures small moments of emotion in everyday life.
Yui Makino’s gentle vocals and the relaxed rhythm soothe the listener’s heart.
NAKAMAZeddo feat. AI
A much-talked-about track born from a dream collaboration between a world-renowned producer and a powerhouse Japanese singer.
It serves as the ending theme for the anime Dragon Ball DAIMA.
Zedd’s gentle yet grand electronic sound blends beautifully with AI’s soulful vocals, resulting in a moving piece.
The lyrics, which sing of unshakable bonds with friends and hope for the future, warmly embrace the listener’s heart.
It’s the kind of song that will set your heart ablaze when you need the courage to take a step forward.
Over the StarOshitani Saki
This is a ballad whose grand sound, woven by piano and acoustic guitar, evokes the boundless cosmos.
Released as a single in June 2009, it was featured as an insert song in episode 17 of the anime Dragon Ball Kai.
It movingly sings of the courage born from thinking of someone dear and a prayer for the future.
The lyrics, imbued with a strong will to overcome fate and move forward, resonate deeply with listeners.
It will surely gently illuminate your heart as you strive toward your goals.
Moving Anime Song Masterpieces and Popular Tracks (81–90)
Hill of the Rainbow and the Sunpiyo piyo
It’s the ending theme of Ranma ½.
The lyrics are very beautiful, and listening to it as an adult really resonates with me.
Especially when I hear the second verse, I’m moved as it brings back the innocent feelings from my childhood.
Piyopiyo’s singing voice is very gentle and soothing.
A prank by the godsNakajima Ai
It’s the ending theme of Tamayura.
The calm melody and Ms.
Nakajima’s gentle singing voice resonate in my heart.
The ending visuals feel like looking back through a photo album, which makes it bittersweet.
I especially love the chorus lyrics—they’re very beautiful.
Beyond a thousand nightsAqua Timez
This is “Sen no Yoru wo Koete” by the band Aqua Timez, who shocked many by suddenly announcing their disbandment in 2018.
It was used as the theme song for the Bleach theatrical anime and achieved million-selling status.
In addition to this track, the band released numerous beloved hits that anyone can hum along to, such as Niji, the theme song for the hugely popular drama Gokusen, and the classic Toushindai no Love Song.
YOUTHFUL99RadioService
It’s the opening theme of the anime “Chihayafuru,” released in 2011, and the debut single by 99RadioService.
The lyrics align with the anime’s story—a youth friendship song about pursuing dreams, staying connected even when apart, and wanting to meet again at the destination you’re aiming for.