[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.
- [Sleep] A Collection of Recommended Japanese Songs for Bedtime [Relaxing]
- Drift into deep sleep with sleep BGM. This is the music that truly makes you sleepy.
- Sleep-inducing music. Relaxing sleep music.
- Music that lulls you into a comfortable sleep. Songs to listen to when going to bed.
- [Take it easy] Recommended ballad songs to help you sleep
- [Sweet Dreams] Songs to listen to before bed: Good Night Numbers to carry you into tomorrow
- [Healing] A song that eases worries and anxiety and puts your mind at ease. A comforting song.
- Healing Songs Ranking [2026]
- Gently soaking into a weary heart... Healing songs released in the Reiwa era
- Songs that heal a tired heart. A collection of timeless tracks that bring peace to the soul.
- [J-Pop] A Collection of Soothing 90s J-POP Hits
- Sleep-inducing Western music: the world’s timeless masterpieces and popular songs for falling asleep
- [I Want Healing] Songs That Bring a Sense of Calm: Heartwarming Masterpieces of Japanese Music
[Relax] A Selection of Japanese Songs Recommended When You Want to Fall Asleep Quickly (1–10)
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.
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.
If it rainsnever young beach
Why not close your eyes and listen to this snappy band sound? It’s a track by never young beach, a band beloved for their retro, warm musicality, included on their second album “fam fam,” released in 2016.
The smooth, unhurried vibe and gentle vocals are incredibly pleasant.
The lyrics’ nostalgic worldview is lovely too, stirring up memories from long ago.
It might be perfect for a rainy night.
[Relaxation] Recommended Japanese songs when you want to fall asleep quickly (11–20)
Future FlowerSukima Suichi
For those who find themselves overthinking even after crawling into bed, I recommend the song “Mirai Hana.” It was released in 2018 by the music duo Sukima Switch, known for crafting catchy tunes anyone can enjoy.
Its warm sound—built on a jazzy piano accompaniment and vocals—really strikes a chord.
The song overflows with pure feelings that paint a “future” with someone special.
You’ll also get to fully appreciate Takuya Ohashi’s wide vocal range.
On sleepless nights, it’s especially nice to let these gentle vocals wash over you.
TOKYONulbarich
TOKYO is a mid-tempo track that paints the infinite scenes and rhythms of life in Tokyo.
It’s a 2021 release by Nulbarich, a band that captivates with emotional yet stylish grooves.
The song has a gentle vibe that seems to stay close to your anxieties, and a sound that invites you to imagine a softly expanding future.
Its calming mood makes it a great choice for drifting off to sleep when you’re worn out.
For those nights when you want to say “good job today” to yourself and slip into a relaxed, urban evening—let this track carry you.
Before our feelings overlap…Hirai Ken
This is a gentle ballad by Ken Hirai, featuring a tender, conversational singing style that leaves a strong impression.
It was produced as the theme for Toyota’s “Corolla Fielder” commercial and was also used as the main theme for the drama “Tsumiki Kuzushi Shinsō: Ano Kazoku Sono Ato no Higeki” (The True Story of Tsumiki Kuzushi: The Tragedy That Befell the Family Thereafter).
The acoustic sound that soothes the heart and the gradually added strings are moving.
The lyrics, like a letter written by one’s past self to one’s future self, are also appealing, conveying a gentle image of calmly facing oneself.
to exist; to be (used for inanimate things or abstract existence)Hata Motohiro
When it comes to songs that gently keep you company on sleepless nights, “Aru” comes to mind.
It’s included on singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata’s 2019 album Copernicus, an album filled with warmth that soothes listeners.
The melody, led by the sound of acoustic guitar, resonates softly.
The lyrics, which honestly express feelings for a loved one, are heartwarming, and his sweet voice will help you relax.
If you find yourself thinking, “I want to sleep but I can’t…,” lend an ear to this warm ballad that gently wraps your anxiety and restlessness.