A piercing ache in your chest, a powerful longing for the one you love, and at times, a strength that gives you a push… Welcome to the world of emo songs, where lyrics and sound combine to resonate deep within.
In this article, we’ll introduce emotional Japanese tracks that stay close to your heart.
They’re perfect for nights when you want to immerse yourself in music alone, or when you want to spend a special time with someone important.
You’re sure to find that one special song that speaks to your feelings, so be sure to read through to the end!
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A Curated List of Stylish Japanese Tracks and Heart-Tugging Emo Songs (1–10)
Liaratarayo
This song, released by Atarayo in October 2021, turns a lie born from a romantic misunderstanding into music.
It’s an answer song told from the male perspective of “I’ll Forget Your Silence in October.” Hitomi’s emotional vocals convey the regret and lingering attachment toward a lover whose heart is drifting away, tightening your chest.
And the device at the end—where the melody of “I’ll Forget Your Silence in October” overlaps—invites you to imagine the two characters’ story and brings tears to your eyes.
somedaySaucy Dog
A signature song by the rock band Saucy Dog, its lyrics look back on everyday memories with a lover you can no longer see, tightening the listener’s chest.
The gentle tone of the guitar and the soft sound of the bass leave a strong impression, and the clear, transparent vocals that weave through them heighten the sense of melancholy.
Released on their first mini-album “Country Road” in May 2017, this track is a lyrical ballad that’s perfect for when you want to sink into your memories.
sleep sleep feat. Moka Satozettakun
This track wraps you in a cozy comfort, as if you’re drifting in a daydream.
It’s a collaboration where rapper and trackmaker Zettakun features singer-songwriter Satomoka, released in September 2019.
A soothing beat, Zettakun’s light, breezy rap, and Satomoka’s dreamy vocals layer together perfectly—it’s irresistibly satisfying.
The lyrics portray intimate moments just before falling asleep, and listening warms you gently from the inside.
Try playing it at the end of the day while thinking of someone dear to you.
NautilusYorushika
Yorushika, known for their literary messaging and sound that vividly evokes their unique world, have gained widespread popularity.
This song, included at the end of the concept album “Elma” released in August 2019, is a pivotal number that brings the story carried over from the previous work to its conclusion.
Like awakening from a deep sleep to greet the dawn, it portrays a resolve to part with the past, rise again, and set out on one’s own.
It’s a bittersweet yet powerful track that gently gives you a push forward when you’re ready to take a first step.
I want to see you.iri
Singer-songwriter iri, popular for her unique sound that fuses R&B and hip-hop.
Released in 2015, this work blends a mellow track produced by mabanua with iri’s husky vocals to create a sophisticated, urban atmosphere.
The lyrics depict a straightforward desire to see someone and the inner conflict of trying to hold that feeling back—touching especially those who are struggling with love.
Be sure to listen closely.
remainingYoshizawa Kayoko
Opening with a wistful melody that evokes the end of summer, this piece is one of singer-songwriter Kayoko Yoshizawa’s signature songs.
The languid feelings of the morning after a night spent with a lover—where exhilaration and guilt mingle—are spun out in literary language.
Her slightly languorous yet gentle voice further accentuates the bittersweet mood.
Released as a single in October 2017, the track was also selected as a “POWER PLAY” on Nippon TV’s Buzz Rhythm.
It was later included on the album Actress Sisters.
It’s a recommended listen for nights when you want to reminisce about a summer romance that has passed, or when you’d like to quietly sink into your thoughts alone.
YOKAZEHentai Shinshi Kurabu
This track is a piece included on the April 2020 EP “HERO.” The contrast between the track crafted by GeG and the raw lyrics by WILYWNKA and VIGORMAN feels so good.
The earnest desire to step into tomorrow—carrying shame and self-loathing yet letting the night breeze blow through—cuts deep into the listener’s heart.
If you listen to it while taking a nighttime walk, you’ll feel a warmth that gives you a gentle push forward.