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[Relax] A curated list of Japanese songs recommended for when you want to fall asleep quickly

You might have ended up here because you’re struggling with things like “I’m sleepy but can’t fall asleep” or “I have to wake up early tomorrow, but I’m wide awake.”

This time, we’re introducing a selection of popular Japanese songs that may help you relax and drift off to dreamland as soon as you listen.

It’s the perfect bedtime playlist: listen under the covers, keep the volume low, and before you know it you’ll feel drowsy and your eyelids will gently close.

Be sure to bookmark it and make good use of it.

[Relax] A Selection of Japanese Songs Recommended When You Want to Fall Asleep Quickly (1–10)

Time machineChara

Chara "Time Machine" Official Music Video
Time machineChara

Its sweet, unhurried vocals might lead you into a dreamlike world.

Known for the hit “Swallowtail Butterfly ~Ai no Uta~” released under the name YEN TOWN BAND, singer Chara put out this track as her 15th single in 1997.

The lo‑fi, spacious guitar sound and Chara’s whispery voice intertwine beautifully.

When you find yourself awake, troubled by matters of love, this song might just help.

O flower, O flowertsuji ayano

Ayano Tsuji – Hana yo Hana yo (Music Video)
O flower, O flowertsuji ayano

This song was featured in a Panasonic commercial.

It’s a work by Kyoto-born singer-songwriter Ayano Tsuji, included on her seventh album, “Nijiiro no Hana Sakihokoru Toki,” released in 2010.

The lyrics, which straightforwardly express love for someone special, are striking, and combined with Tsuji’s gentle voice, they bring a sense of calm.

The piano-forward soundscape also makes it perfect for drifting off to sleep.

It’s a blissful ballad that feels like it will bring sweet dreams.

rose flowerkururi

Quruli – Rose Flower | Trailer
rose flowerkururi

This song might be perfect for those nights when you’re too excited about tomorrow to fall asleep.

It’s one of the signature tracks by Quruli, a rock band from Kyoto, released in 2001 as their seventh single.

The understated band sound pairs beautifully with vocalist Shigeru Kishida’s unadorned singing, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

When your excitement keeps you wide awake—that fluttering feeling—this song will gently embrace it.

Focus on the sound and try closing your eyes.

[Relaxation] Recommended Japanese songs when you want to fall asleep quickly (11–20)

step on a shadowyamasaki aoi

Aoi Yamazaki “Stepping on Shadows” (Official Music Video)
step on a shadowyamasaki aoi

When you’re going through hard and painful times, this song will surely save you.

It’s by Hokkaido-born singer-songwriter Aoi Yamazaki and is included on the 2021 album “√S.” The arrangement, melodic lines, and vocals evoke a cityscape bathed in the orange of dusk, and it’s enough to move you to tears.

The sorrow and frustration woven into the lyrics cut deep—this is a ballad that truly hits the heart.

Let your tears flow to reset your feelings, and may it bring you a peaceful night’s sleep.

GoodbyeToe

toe – Goodbye / Goodbye
GoodbyeToe

Toe is an indispensable presence when talking about Japan’s post-rock scene.

They’re a rock band active overseas as well, having found success on numerous tours across Europe and North America.

Among their songs, “Goodbye” is perfect for falling asleep.

It was included on the 2006 mini-album “new sentimentality e.p.” The light, band-driven sound—centered on technical drumming—leaves a strong impression.

The vocal delivery, which feels like someone gently speaking to you, lulls you to sleep.

With no fixed chorus and a soft, drifting melody, it helps you drift off smoothly.

Give this ambient-tinged track a listen before bedtime.

Can you see it feat. J.Lamotta SuzumeEVISBEATS & Nagipan

EVISBEATS & Nagipan / Can you see it feat. J.Lamotta Suzume
Can you see it feat. J.Lamotta SuzumeEVISBEATS & Nagipan

The moment the intro starts, a soft sound that makes you feel ready for sleep mode.

It’s a track included on the collaborative album PEPE by Nagipan, who has long been connected with trackmaker EVISBEATS.

The lyrics are in English, so the words come through easily as sounds.

The gentle voice of singer J.Lamotta Suzume—whose roots are in reggae and jazz—along with the warming soundscape and relaxed tempo, are truly soothing.

It’s a number that wraps you in a dreamy mood, like dozing off while sunbathing.

When I Get My Playground BackFriday Night Plans

Friday Night Plans – “When I Get My Playground Back” Audio Visual (Dir.Leo Iizuka)
When I Get My Playground BackFriday Night Plans

“When I Get My Playground Back” is a song that gently envelops the “silence” and “loneliness” of a pitch-dark room.

It was created in 2022 by Friday Night Plans, a music project centered around vocalist Masumi.

The track is characterized by a dreamy atmosphere that matches every kind of cityscape.

You can experience a deep sound that stays close to the anxieties of sleepless nights.

It’s also recommended for those who enjoy chill music like lo-fi hip-hop.

Since it’s a long track, it’s especially worth checking out if it takes you time to fall asleep.