[Sunset Songs] A selection of timeless classics and the latest tracks perfect for listening at dusk
At dusk, as the sun sets, the feelings we hold while gazing at the sunset—“beautiful,” “bittersweet,” “lonely,” and more—vary from person to person.
In this article, we introduce songs that depict various situations and human emotions with the theme of the setting sun and sunsets.
We’ve selected a wide range from timeless classics to the latest tracks, so you’re sure to find a favorite!
Please enjoy while comparing them with the image of the “sunset” you have in mind.
- [Sunset Songs] Songs about sunsets and the evening glow you’ll want to listen to at dusk
- Japanese songs perfect for the evening. Recommended evening tracks for your commute or as background music.
- [Autumn Songs] Songs of autumn. Classic tracks and popular favorites you’ll want to listen to in the fall.
- Classic songs that sing of the sky. Recommended popular tracks that will make you long for the sky.
- [Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]
- Tear-jerking summer classics: recommended popular songs
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- A collection of summer-like songs: tracks that go perfectly with summer, like the sea and the sky.
- Songs you want to listen to at the end of summer: Late-summer classics to look back on the season
- Heartbreak songs to listen to at the end of summer. Classic and popular summer tracks.
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- [Autumn Classics] Japanese Songs to Listen to and Sing in October: A Curated Selection of Beloved, Heartfelt Hits
- Masterpieces that sing of tomorrow. Recommended popular songs.
[Sunset Songs] A selection of classic staples and the latest tracks perfect for listening at dusk (1–10)
glowing madder-redAimer
Akane Sasu is a sunset song with a memorable music video of a man and woman walking sadly at dusk.
It was also used as the ending theme for the anime Natsume’s Book of Friends Go, so anime fans might recognize it.
The lyrics convey a somewhat melancholy state of mind, giving the impression of having found something precious only to have to say goodbye.
In the MV, the man can see the woman, but the woman can’t see the man.
Perhaps they no longer exist in the same world.
It’s a song that fills you with a quiet, lingering sadness when you listen to it while watching the sunset.
evening primroseNovelbright
A heartbreaking breakup song that captures the painful feeling of looking up at the evening sky and remembering someone you can’t forget.
It also drew attention for featuring former Nogizaka46 member Yumi Wakatsuki in the music video.
Released in 2020 by Novelbright, a rock band known for its powerful vocals.
Perhaps more people than you’d expect have cried at the sight of the setting sun on their way home after a breakup.
An emotional ballad that gently stays by your side in tough times.
The setting sun gives me a gentle push on the back.NHK Tōkyō Jidō Gasshōdan
The red setting sun gives a gentle push to the children’s backs.
It’s a simple, warm song that captures a slice of everyday life.
For children, the sunset that signals the end of the day brings a touch of loneliness, yet also stirs anticipation for tomorrow.
Hiroo Sakata’s lyrics and Naozumi Yamamoto’s music blend beautifully, tenderly depicting the scene of twilight.
First broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in July 1968, the song has continued to be loved by many.
When you feel like pausing amid your busy day to gaze at the sunset, give it a listen.
[Sunset Songs] A selection of classic staples and the latest tracks perfect for dusk (11–20)
twilightBEGIN
A track released for streaming on New Year’s Day 2021.
It’s a soothing song whose spaciousness evokes majestic nature and the gentle atmosphere so characteristic of BEGIN.
It stirs up feelings of nostalgia and longing for home, as if rising with the sunset.
Higa’s vocals, radiating warmth and compassion, are deeply moving and seem to smooth the rough edges of everyday life.
It leaves you with the comforting sense of having returned to your hometown.
Tokyo Sunsetback number
Every song by the rock band back number is beautiful and emotional.
Their track “Tokyo no Yuuyake” (“Tokyo Sunset”) is exactly that kind of song.
While it takes Tokyo as its theme, I believe it resonates with people all across Japan.
If you listen while picturing the twilight and paying attention to the lyrics, you’ll find parts that connect with your own feelings.
It’s a song that stands by everyone’s sunset, regardless of age.
Promise in Madder Redikimonogakari
When it comes to Ikimono-gakari’s sunset songs, “Akane-iro no Yakusoku” is the one, right? It’s a song written by member Mizuno with a wedding theme, and it was even performed at vocalist Yoshioka’s older brother’s wedding.
It depicts two people deepening their bond while watching the sunset, and listening to it with someone special gently warms your heart.
While many sunset-themed songs tend to feel a bit melancholic, this one is perfect for anyone who wants to feel positive.
It was also used in commercials and as a TV theme song, so it’s a well-known masterpiece.
twilightkyanai
I can’t help but relate to songs that depict parting with a loved one and feelings of regret! This track is performed by Kyanai, an artist who mainly did street performances up until 2022.
When he uploaded his singing videos to TikTok, they went massively viral.
His current TikTok account has over 140,000 followers! He’s also posted footage of his street performances on TikTok, so if you want to experience the unique atmosphere of live street shows, those videos are highly recommended.
