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-inspiring anison masterpieces and popular songs (201–210)
Get OverDream

This is a song by the female dance-vocal group Dream.
It became a hot topic as the opening theme for the anime Hikaru no Go.
At the time, the anime drew attention for its focus on the game of Go and had a major impact, even leading to an increase in elementary school students taking up Go.
Listening to this song together with the anime makes it an especially moving piece.
Crimson Bow and ArrowLinked Horizon

It’s the opening theme of Attack on Titan.
This song was included—along with two other tracks—on Linked Horizon’s second single, “Jiyuu e no Shingeki,” released in 2013.
It became hugely popular not only in Japan but also overseas, topping numerous charts.
To evoke the anime’s atmosphere, brass instruments are used throughout the track.
CORE PRIDEUVERworld

This is the first opening theme song of the anime Blue Exorcist.
Released in 2011, it is UVERworld’s 19th single, with lyrics written by vocalist TAKUYA∞ and based on real-life experiences.
It’s a powerful, high-energy track befitting the catchphrase, “I’ll change the future with everything I’ve got.”
moon prideMomoiro Clover Z

This song is from Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon.
Since it’s sung by an idol, the key is a bit high, so I think it’s difficult to sing.
However, because Revo handled both the lyrics and composition, it has a grand, majestic atmosphere.
With powerful lyrics, it’s a song that cheers you on.
futureKobukuro

A song by Kobukuro where bittersweet feelings intersect with warm hope.
It was newly written in December 2015 as the theme song for the film “orange.” The track was also chosen as the ending theme for the UHF anime “orange,” and, together with the film’s success, went on to become a long-running hit.
It is included on the album “TIMELESS WORLD.” Set to gentle piano tones, the lyrics—capturing both anxiety and anticipation for the future—resonate deeply.
Evoking the melancholy of youth and the ache of unrequited love, this piece gently accompanies those standing at a crossroads in life or thinking of someone dear.
Kobukuro’s vocals will lean into your emotions and offer encouragement.
mysteryMiho Komatsu

It’s the opening theme of the anime Detective Conan, released in 1997 and Miho Komatsu’s debut single.
Thanks to the anime’s popularity, it was used as the opening for a full year and stayed on the Oricon charts for a long time.
Komatsu wrote both the lyrics and music.
While it’s a love song, it carries a sense of mystery and deduction reminiscent of the anime.
Thank youSun Set Swish

It’s the ending theme of Big Windup!.
The bittersweet melody and lyrics bring tears to my eyes.
The ending visuals show the baseball team on their way home, which makes it even more poignant as I remember my own days on the team.
I recommend it when you’re in the mood for something quietly reflective.





