RAG MusicAnime Songs
Lovely anime song

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.

Moving Anison Masterpieces and Popular Songs (131–140)

Rondo – revolutionOkui Masami

Masami Okui “Rondo - revolution” | Revolutionary Girl Utena | Opening
Rondo - revolutionOkui Masami

Opening with a powerful beat, this song vividly conveys a message of self-transformation and growth, carried by Masami Okui’s resonant vocals.

The protagonist’s strong resolve to overcome a parting with someone dear and carve out their own path is embedded in the memorable melody.

Her commanding voice gives listeners the courage to take that first step forward.

Released in May 1997, the track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Revolutionary Girl Utena.

It was later included on the album Ma-KING and the acclaimed compilation S-mode #1.

Brimming with hope, this is a dependable song recommended for anyone feeling uncertain or ready to embark on a new beginning.

Beautiful WorldUtada Hikaru

Utada Hikaru「Beautiful World」 Directed by Tsurumaki Kazuya
Beautiful WorldUtada Hikaru

This song sung by Hikaru Utada is deeply etched in people’s hearts alongside the Evangelion feature films.

Released in August 2007, it was used as the theme song for the movie Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone.

With a pop sound that incorporates mid-tempo house elements, it gives voice to poignant love and a profound prayer.

Utada herself is a fan of Evangelion and reportedly crafted the track with the world of the series in mind.

The lyrics, which reflect the emotions of the anime’s characters, are sure to resonate with listeners.

It’s a moving, tear-jerking song that fills you with a bittersweet feeling.

Oak Wood MocOnogi Kumiko

With a bright, lively rhythm and a catchy, child-friendly melody, this heartwarming song conveys the importance of kindness and human bonds.

It expresses the protagonist’s innocence and positive spirit through simple yet memorable phrases, resulting in a familiar tune that anyone can hum along to.

The clear, gentle vocals of Kumiko Onogi and the Columbia Yurikago Kai softly deliver the story’s message.

Released in January 1972, it was used as the opening theme for an anime produced by Tatsunoko Production.

It has continued to be loved for many years and cherished by people of all ages.

It’s a nostalgic track that can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Song of Steel JeegMizuki Ichirō

The 1975 robot anime theme song, woven from powerful vocals and melody, portrays an epic tale of a righteous hero battling an evil army.

With a valiant composition by Chuumei Watanabe and lyrics by Haruo Hayashi that stirringly express the protagonist’s sense of mission and responsibility, the piece is perfectly complemented by Ichirou Mizuki’s passionate singing.

Included on the album “Super Robot Spirits: Theme Song Best Collection 2,” this track has colored numerous iconic scenes of giant robots in combat.

It’s a recommended song for those who resonate with heroes of justice or are looking for an uplifting, courage-inspiring anthem.

Gamba’s SongKawahara Hiromasa

Episode 1: Gamba’s Adventure “THE ADVENTURES OF GAMBA” (1975) | An immortal masterpiece depicting the adventures of mice | TMS 60th Anniversary
Gamba's SongKawahara Hiromasa

Hiroaki Kawahara delivers a powerful performance of a song that shines in the history of 1970s anime programs.

Riding an energetic melody, it’s a rousing anthem that calls for the courage to set off on an adventure and the importance of bonds with friends.

Its bright, cheerful rhythm conveys the excitement of an adventure that makes anyone’s heart leap.

Released as a single in January 1975, the song was used as the opening theme for a TV anime broadcast from April to September of the same year.

Like the anime’s story, it centers on friendship and bonds, expressing the determination to face hardships and a positive spirit.

It’s a track that gives you strength and courage when you’re feeling down or want to take on something new.

The world that was transparentHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “The World That Was Transparent” Music Video
The world that was transparentHata Motohiro

This is a heartwarming song crafted by Motohiro Hata as the opening theme for the anime Naruto Shippuden.

Released in August 2010, its sweeping message—reflecting on what has been lost and the resolve to move forward after parting—ties in with the story.

The pop-rock melody, centered on acoustic guitar, is layered with powerful vocals that harmonize beautifully with the anime’s world.

This work is Hata’s 10th single, released in three editions: First Press Limited, Limited Period, and Regular, and it reached No.

13 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It’s a song that resonates deeply with those who have experienced parting from someone important or are trying to face events from their past.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

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.