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 Anison Masterpieces and Popular Songs (131–140)
Fragment of a rainbowNatsumi Kon

It’s the ending theme of One Week Friends.
The beautiful melody and Ms.
Kon’s singing are very soothing.
The song doesn’t disrupt the anime’s bittersweet tone, so I think it fits very well.
Some parts of the lyrics feel a bit cheesy, but I still think they’re good.
Embraced by the stars again tonight...Ayaka

Ayaka’s gem of a ballad features a warmly enveloping voice you’ll want to keep listening to forever.
It’s a gentle song that sings of deep feelings for a loved one.
The lyrics portray the poignant emotions of a woman who gazes up at the starry sky every night, thinking of someone dear—feelings that are sure to reach anyone who listens.
Released in July 2007, this piece was also used as the ending theme for the anime The Sky Crawlers.
Sing it with a straightforward, composed vocal tone, pouring your feelings into the simple melody.
single-minded; wholehearted; devoted; earnestKing Gnu

A masterpiece that brilliantly fuses fierce passion with fleeting poignancy.
Released in December 2021 as the theme song for the film Jujutsu Kaisen 0, this work powerfully conveys a pure, unwavering love.
Its devoted resolve—to sacrifice everything for the one you love—is portrayed through a dynamic progression that shakes the listener to the core.
It’s also striking how the relationship between the film’s protagonists, Yuta Okkotsu and Rika Orimoto, is sublimated into a uniquely crafted lyrical world.
An undying classic that resonates deeply with anyone in love.
Winding RoadMAN WITH A MISSION

An ambitious work that portrays a powerful sprint through life’s twists and turns with lyrics that skillfully interweave English and Japanese.
MAN WITH A MISSION’s signature hard-hitting rap-rock sound blends seamlessly with a grand melody, gripping the listener’s heart.
The track was included on the single “Take Me Under / Winding Road,” released in April 2018, which reached No.
4 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
It was later featured on the album “Chasing the Horizon.” Around the same time, it was selected as the opening theme for Season 1 of the TV anime “Golden Kamuy,” garnering attention as a song perfectly suited to the sweeping story set in Hokkaido at the end of the Meiji era.
This is a song for everyone who keeps moving forward, believing in the dawn despite setbacks and hardships.
IllusionMY FIRST STORY × HYDE

A stunning collaborative track by MY FIRST STORY and HYDE that fuses a passionate rock sound with a grand, expansive worldview.
Released in June 2024 as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc.
The strengths of both artists meld beautifully, delivering a powerful portrayal of a heart wavering between weakness and strength over a solid alternative rock foundation.
With lyrics that voice a fighting spirit in search of answers and the resolve to face inescapable fate, the song offers encouragement to anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
It’s sure to resonate as the perfect soundtrack for forging your own path.
BOW AND ARROWKenshi Yonezu

Released in January 2025, Kenshi Yonezu’s new song was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Medalist.
Set in the world of figure skating, the track features lyrics that closely mirror the story of a coach who has experienced setbacks and a girl embarking on the path she admires, supporting each other as they aim higher.
Using the bow and arrow—items that rely on one another—as symbolic motifs, it deftly portrays the two of them advancing toward their dream in step.
The anecdote that Yonezu, a fan of the original manga, personally offered to create the song also shows his deep attachment to the work.
It’s sure to give you a powerful push on your back as you spread your wings toward a new goal.
Fight! PolymerIsao Sasaki

This is a powerful, up-tempo track brimming with the spirit of 1970s hero anime.
A forceful rock-style performance pairs with fiery vocals reminiscent of steel-like strength, brilliantly conveying the protagonist’s courage and power.
The tense developments and high-velocity rhythm further heighten the realism of battle scenes, making it a superb piece.
Released in October 1974 as a tie-in song for the third installment of Tatsunoko Production’s sci-fi action hero TV anime series, it was later used in a live-action film as well.
Showcasing Isao Sasaki’s overwhelming vocal prowess, this track is perfect for moments when you want to stoke your fighting spirit or boost your motivation.





