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[Crying Songs] A collection of classic Japanese hits whose stylish melodies tug at the heartstrings
For those of you searching for refined, tear-jerking songs that resonate deeply with your emotions and gently wrap your heart.
In this article, we’ve gathered cathartic tracks that stand by you in all kinds of “moments you want to cry,” from the sorrow of heartbreak and farewells with loved ones to despair in life.
The world woven by lyrical lyrics and delicate melodies offers a special allure that appeals to a mature sensibility—more than just sadness.
May your encounter with stylish, sophisticated music bring you healing.
[Crying Songs] A Collection of Classic Japanese Hits with Stylish Melodies That Tug at the Heartstrings (1–10)
Only HumanK
A dramatic ballad by K that shines a light of hope, telling us that “beyond sorrow lies a smile.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama One Litre of Tears, the piece portrays people who keep looking forward even as they face life’s hardships.
When you’re exhausted, when you stop and wonder if things are okay as they are, this song gently gives you a push.
Released in November 2005, it reached No.
5 on the Oricon charts.
It’s also included on the album Beyond the Sea and continues to be cherished as one of K’s signature works.
Its tender, enveloping vocals are sure to give you strength.
NonfictionHirai Ken
Life can feel overwhelming, full of absurdities and helpless moments.
In times like these, I hope you’ll listen to Ken Hirai’s 42nd single.
Written as the theme song for the drama “Little Giant,” it was released in June 2017.
Born from Hirai’s profound grief over losing a friend, the song delivers fundamental questions about life and a heartfelt cry to see a loved one again, piercing the heart with a voice that cuts deep.
You may find it impossible to listen without tears…
Things that have formShibasaki Kou
It seems to tell us that even if tangible things fade away, memories continue to shine forever in our hearts.
This is the sixth single by Kou Shibasaki, who is active both as an actress and a singer, and it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World,” which aired in 2004 and became a social phenomenon.
The song portrays the strength and poignancy of thinking of someone you can no longer meet, transforming even sorrow into love.
Her voice, combining clarity and power, melds with the sweeping strings, and together with the drama’s worldview, it really tugs at the heartstrings.
When you are grieving the loss of someone dear, it gently stays by your side and kindles a warm light in your heart.
Song of the Eternal NightKami wa saikoro o furanai
A gem of a rock ballad by Kami wa Saikoro wo Furanai that became a hit after gaining buzz on social media.
Its melody, vocals, and lyrics each carry a sensational power that speaks straight to the heart.
The song was included on the mini-album “An Opinion on Lambda,” released in May 2019.
It expresses an overwhelming longing for someone precious you can never meet again, and many listeners find themselves moved to tears even without having gone through a breakup.
Vocalist and lyricist Shusaku Yanagita reportedly cried many times during production.
Listen to it on a night when you can’t forget someone, and your tear ducts will surely be stirred.
balladKetsumeishi
A love ballad from Ketsumeishi that differs from their usual cheerful image.
It’s a tear-jerker that gently yet poignantly sings of unrequited feelings for someone special, set to a tender, heartrending melody.
With piano and strings that resonate deep in the heart, this work was also a bold experiment that surprised longtime fans.
The song was released in January 2011 as one of a double A-side single and was included on the acclaimed album “Ketsuno-Polis 7.” It was also used as the theme song for the Nippon TV information program “Sukkiri!!.”
AiHata Motohiro
Sung by Motohiro Hata in a delicate, tear-evoking voice, this song is a moving number that portrays how emotions one couldn’t believe in before begin to gently take root in the heart after meeting someone irreplaceable.
The beautiful guitar arpeggios and clear vocals deliver that heartrending love straight to the listener’s heart.
Released in January 2010 as his ninth single, it reached No.
5 on the Oricon weekly chart and was also used as the ending theme for a TV Miyazaki program.
It’s the perfect track for those moments when you want to once again feel the presence of someone precious to you—be it a partner, family member, or any loved one.
rendezvousshaitoopu
A bittersweet love song that delicately paints scenes like meeting up in the rain and looking back on proofs of their love.
Released as a digital-only single in April 2023, it was later included on the album “Hors d’œuvre.” It debuted at No.
1 on the Billboard Japan Heatseekers Songs chart and has captured many listeners’ hearts, surpassing 100 million streams.
It’s a recommended track for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or goodbyes, or who want to reflect on past love.
Why not entrust your heart to Shytoop’s delicate vocals?