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/Touching Anime Song Masterpieces and Popular Tracks (11–20)
Song of DepartureClass 3-E

It’s an insert song from the anime Assassination Classroom.
Many people probably feel a lump in their throat when this track plays during the anime’s climax.
Sung by the members of Class 3-E, it’s a moving choral piece themed around graduation and parting.
Released in September 2016, the song brilliantly expresses the anime’s worldview through music and has left a deep impression on fans.
Its forward-looking lyrics, like a gentle push from the wind, will warmly encourage anyone embarking on a new journey.
Even if you haven’t seen the anime, listening to it during the spring graduation season will truly resonate with your heart.
Until the world becomes oneYa-Ya-yah

Ya-Ya-yah’s song was released in May 2002 as the ending theme for the anime Nintama Rantarō.
Its lyrics, themed around friendship and peace, are memorable and carry a warm, positive message.
The phrase “Let’s keep holding hands forever” symbolizes unity and togetherness, expressing love and hope.
It’s a medium-tempo ballad characterized by a simple yet powerful sound.
The members’ youthful, clear vocals enhance the song’s refreshing and heartwarming feel.
In harmony with the anime’s worldview, it became beloved by viewers, and the use of sign language in the performance drew particular attention among fans.
Conveying messages of friendship, love, and hope, the song is a work that leaves a deep emotional impact on listeners.
rainbowMasaki Suda

Masaki Suda, who thrives at the forefront both as an actor and an artist.
The song he performs captured the hearts of many as the theme for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2.
This heartwarming track tells the story of a protagonist who recognizes his own weaknesses, expressing deep gratitude to the partner who supports him and vowing firmly to walk into the future together.
Released as a single in November 2020, the song was written and composed by Huwie Ishizaki.
Suda’s gentle yet powerful vocals align beautifully with the film’s moving narrative.
It’s the kind of song that will surely make your heart swell when you want to convey your appreciation to someone special.
Unchanging ThingsHanako Oku

Resonating deeply with the heart, this song is known as an insert track from the animated film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.
Hanako Oku’s gentle voice expresses the protagonist’s aching feelings, tightening the listener’s chest.
Included on the 2006 single Garnet, it has garnered strong support alongside the film.
It’s a piano-centered ballad, characterized by a simple yet emotionally rich arrangement.
Highly recommended for those who want to cherish memories with a loved one and unchanging feelings.
Its poignant lyrics and Hanako Oku’s vocals are sure to bring tears to your eyes.
kaiju (giant monster)Sakanaction

This track, which also drew attention as the opening theme for the anime “Chi: About the Movement of the Earth,” marks Sakanakution’s first new song in about three years.
Released in February 2025, it has captured many hearts, topping Billboard JAPAN’s Rising Songs chart, among other achievements.
From the lyrics, you can feel a powerful will—like that of a solitary “kaiju”—to pursue the truth even if it means defying common sense.
The interplay between a pure passion to explore precisely because the world is unfinished, and the poignant helplessness that the cry may never reach anyone, tightens the listener’s chest.
For those struggling toward a big goal or trying to stay true to their convictions, this is surely a song that will become a source of strength.
A bouquet of astersASCA

A moving song created as the ending theme for season 3 of the anime The Irregular at Magic High School.
ASCA’s powerful vocals and the grand sound leave a strong impression.
Centered on themes of longing for a lost loved one and eternal love, it conveys deep sorrow and heartfelt gratitude.
Released in June 2024, the CD also includes additional tracks, and the Blu-ray features the music video.
It’s recommended for those who have experienced parting or who want to reaffirm their feelings for someone special.
Each listen resonates with the heart, offering a one-of-a-kind world of sound.
Moving anime song masterpieces and popular tracks (21–30)
Together with the WindSachiko Kobayashi

Created as the ending theme for Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back, this piece is a moving duet by Sachiko Kobayashi and Shoko Nakagawa.
Its lyrics, which depict walking the path of life guided by the wind, give listeners courage and hope.
A remake of a song originally performed solo by Sachiko Kobayashi in 1998, it was released in June 2019 and reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly anime singles chart.
Paired with the world of Pokémon, it’s a wonderful song that lingers in your heart even after watching the film.
It’s a recommended track when you need the courage to chase your dreams or to take a new step forward.





