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 (41–50)
GarnetOku Hanako

It’s the theme song of The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.
I really like Hanako Oku—she has such a beautiful voice.
The fact that it’s a solo vocal with piano makes it even more poignant.
I think it’s a song that brings back memories of those faint, youthful romances from our school days.
It also matches the film’s story very well.
We are!kitadani hiroshi

This is a signature song by Hiroshi Kitadani, famous as the first opening theme of the anime One Piece.
With the series growing ever more exciting—especially with the release of a new theatrical film—why not take this opportunity to revisit the song that started it all?
strollHisaishi Joe

Azumi Inoue’s “Sanpo,” the signature song from Studio Ghibli’s emblematic film My Neighbor Totoro, is performed here with orchestra and chorus.
The footage is from “Joe Hisaishi in Budokan: 25 Years with the Animations of Hayao Miyazaki,” featuring numerous Ghibli masterpieces arranged and conducted by Joe Hisaishi himself.
The live texture of the orchestra is truly wonderful.
This piece was previously arranged for “Orchestra Stories: My Neighbor Totoro,” which includes a narrated performance—highly recommended as well.
Like an instrument introduction, it features sections where only the woodwinds or only the brass play, as well as sections for strings and percussion, plus solo passages, making it an arrangement that showcases the orchestra’s appeal.
It’s also recommended as an introductory piece for those new to orchestral music.
SparkleRADWIMPS

This song portrays the flow of time and the crossroads of fate.
It was created for the soundtrack of the 2016 film “Your Name.” and was used in the climactic scene.
It is characterized by a structure that begins with a quiet piano and unfolds into a grand band sound.
RADWIMPS’s poetic lyrics merge beautifully with the film’s world, moving the hearts of many.
Singing of the feelings of two people in love, this piece is perfect for moments when you want to look back on memories with someone special or when you’re excited about a new encounter.
frecklesJUDY AND MARY

It’s the first opening theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin, released in 1996, and the 9th single by JUDY AND MARY.
It reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
The band reportedly wrote the song without knowing the anime’s story, and were very surprised when they learned about it after recording.
Still, it’s an amazing song that you’d never guess was made in just three days.
XY&ZMatsumoto Rika

It’s the opening theme of Pokémon XY&Z.
Since the singer also voices the main character, I think they deliver an emotional performance that suits the anime.
The lyrics talk about facing difficulties and cherishing friends, making it a warm-hearted song.
Singing it at karaoke will make you a crowd favorite.
youyuzuki

Originally used as background music for Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai, it became so popular that it was released in various arrangements and multiple vocal versions.
The lyrics differ depending on the version, but all are related to the characters, and they are generally characterized by their bittersweet, melancholy themes.
With its catchy, memorable rhythm and lyrics that match the main story, it has become a very captivating song.


