[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.
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[Relaxation] Recommended Japanese songs when you want to fall asleep quickly (11–20)
OverLUCKY TAPES
Over wraps you in a soft, chillout mood.
It’s a track included on LUCKY TAPES’ 2020 album Blend.
The band’s appeal lies in their comforting blend of sweet pop sensibilities rooted in Black music.
This song, too, is enveloped in a mellow, slow tempo.
Its lyrics gently stay by your side on days when things don’t go well, and help you make it through the night—perfect for soothing you before bed.
It’s a number you’ll want to listen to with your favorite sleep headphones.
trumpet vineAndō Yūko
A song I’d like you to listen to on those nights when your heart feels unsettled and you can’t sleep is “Nōzen Katsura.” It’s included on singer-songwriter Yuko Ando’s 2006 album Merry Andrew; she’s also an actress who has appeared in many films and TV dramas.
The track features a simple sound built around beautiful piano tones and vocals.
Her clear, translucent voice will soothe your heart.
The lyrics are filled with gentle words inspired by the motif of “flowers.” Be sure to add this perfect sleep-time track to your playlist.
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.
Before you become a memorysupittsu
On sleepless nights, you find yourself wanting to hear a gentle voice with a healing touch, don’t you? For those moments, I recommend the song “Kimi ga Omoide ni Naru Mae ni.” It was released in 1993 by Spitz, a rock band that delivers nostalgic tracks with a unique worldview.
Its warm melody line, unfolding at a leisurely tempo, is especially memorable.
Centered on softly floating guitar tones, the band’s performance resonates beautifully.
Masamune Kusano’s clear, translucent vocals will surely soothe your heart.
Give this song a listen to wrap your nighttime anxieties and loneliness in comfort.
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.
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.
[Relax] Recommended Japanese Songs for When You Want to Fall Asleep Quickly (21–30)
Don’t Fall Asleep feat. Ikuko Harada (clammbon)YONA YONA WEEKENDERS
A lovely band that embraces the concept of “good music to go with your drinks,” YONA YONA WEEKENDERS released this new work in April 2023.
It’s included on their fifth EP, “into the wind,” out in June, and features Ikuko Harada from clammbon as a guest vocalist.
The lyrics, which depict time spent together, and the sweet atmosphere create a soothing comfort.
It seems perfect as a bedtime song, too.
It’s got that quintessential Yona Yona gentle groove that leaves you dreamy.
Alongside the reassuring band ensemble, a calm, peaceful time flows.