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 (1–10)
Child of the devilAi Higuchi
This is a song by Ai Higuchi, written specifically as the ending theme for the anime Attack on Titan.
The lyrics, filled with the struggles of the protagonist Eren, express his resolve to become a devil in order to protect those he loves.
Singing of the world’s cruelty and the opposing emotion of love, the piece sharply portrays the contradictions within the human heart.
It was released in January 2022 as a digital-only single and was later included on the album “Saiaku SAI-AI,” released in March of the same year.
With its profound message, it’s recommended for those who wish to reflect on the essence of humanity.
Butter-FlyKoji Wada
This is a famous anime song by Koji Wada, used as the theme song for the TV anime Digimon Adventure.
Sadly, Koji Wada passed away after a battle with illness, but this song will continue to inspire many people as a timeless classic.
OrangeSPYAIR
A song marked by a stirring melody and powerful lyrics! It’s the theme song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle (the feature film), brought to you by SPYAIR.
Centered on encounters, bonds, and farewells within limited time, it sings of the courage and hope you find at life’s crossroads.
Released in February 2024, this track marks the fourth collaboration between the Haikyu!! series and SPYAIR.
It’s a song that will be by your side when you want to think of someone dear, or when you’re about to take a new step forward.
Anytime Anywheremilet
This is a song by milet that gained attention as the ending theme for the TV anime “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.” Centered on themes of past and present, life and death, it expresses a longing to always feel the presence of a loved one, no matter the circumstances.
Released in September 2023, the track is characterized by milet’s richly expressive vocals and a dramatic musical arrangement.
Closely tied to the anime’s narrative, it skillfully conveys the emotions of the protagonist, Frieren.
With lyrics that resonate deeply and a composition filled with hope, it’s recommended for those who have experienced parting with someone important or are about to take a new step forward.
KusushikiMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song was chosen as the opening theme for the second cour of season 2 of the TV anime The Apothecary Diaries.
Just as medicine can be both poison and remedy, the lyrics convey a profound message that words and love also have two sides of the same coin.
Layering conflicting feelings onto the stars in the sky, it paints a bittersweet yet beautiful worldview that resonates deeply.
It’s perfect for when you’re carrying complex emotions you can’t put into words.
It will surely help you transcend them.
flameLiSA
Known as the theme song for the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba movie, this track features LiSA’s powerful vocals and a grand, sweeping melody.
The lyrics portray the protagonists’ struggles, their bonds, and their hope for the future, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in October 2020, the song became a social phenomenon alongside the film’s massive success, surpassing 300 million streams.
Its universal themes have earned it support from a wide audience—not just anime fans.
When you need the courage to face hardship, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to move forward.
Is there still anything that love can do?RADWIMPS
This song was created as the theme for director Makoto Shinkai’s film Weathering with You.
With a profound exploration of the power of love and the meaning of life, it resonates deeply with listeners.
The lyrics by RADWIMPS’ Yojiro Noda delve into feelings for those we’ve lost and what we can do for ourselves and others through love.
Released in July 2019, the track sparked a social phenomenon alongside the film.
It’s recommended for those who want to feel the intangible power of love or reflect on life’s meaning.
Listening to this work may help you rediscover the importance of loving and the value of human bonds.