Recommended tear-jerking songs for women: classic and popular J‑pop tracks
We’ve put together a collection of songs you’ll want to listen to when you’re heartbroken, or when, for reasons you can’t quite explain, you just want to have a good cry.
From famous tracks to hidden gems, this feature is sure to help you find the perfect song to match your mood.
Listen while thinking of someone, or while facing your own feelings.
Even well-known songs you hear all the time can make you think, “Wait, was this always such a tearjerker?” when you really listen closely.
So go ahead and cry your heart out—and feel refreshed afterward!
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Tearjerker Songs Recommended for Women: Classic and Popular J-Pop Hits (31–40)
Memory of LifeNikaidou Kazumi
A beautiful song with a lovely singing voice that was chosen as the theme song for the Studio Ghibli film “The Tale of the Princess Kaguya.” Listen to it while reflecting on life and the finiteness of our existence.
Kazumi Nikaido is a skilled singer who can handle everything from simple pieces to powerful performances with a jazz band.
As a side note, she is said to hold a monk’s qualification.
Family SongHoshino Gen
This is a song released in 2017 as the theme for the drama “Overprotected Kahoko.” You’ll be wrapped in Gen Hoshino’s gentle vocals and the song’s world.
It has a warm atmosphere, yet carries a touch of bittersweetness that gives it a unique charm.
It’s a wonderful track to listen to while wishing happiness for your family or someone special.
a single flowertuki.
With its gentle melody and tuki.’s pure vocals, this song feels like it could loosen your tear ducts from the very intro.
Released in November 2023, it was inspired by the anime Jujutsu Kaisen.
This track brought tuki.
sudden attention—many people may have discovered tuki.
through this very song.
Every lyric carries a poignant sense of longing, and tuki.’s voice makes it all the more moving.
It’s the kind of song that lets the feelings you’ve been holding back—and your tears—pour out at once.
I especially recommend it to anyone who has experienced heartbreak or parting, or who wants to face themselves.
moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro
Gekko (Moonlight), well known as the theme song for the drama TRICK starring Yukie Nakama and Hiroshi Abe, is a track released in 2001 by singer-songwriter Chihiro Onitsuka and is famous as one of her signature songs.
Life isn’t always easy, and there are times when we feel worn out.
Even when you’re tired, you might get fed up with a world that constantly demands positivity.
In those moments, listen to this song and let it detox the everyday haze from your mind.
So it wasn’t me, huh.riria.
Singer-songwriter Riria gained popularity after posting self-accompanied performance videos on TikTok and YouTube.
Known for love songs from every perspective, her 2021 release “Watachi Janakattan Da Ne” (“So It Wasn’t Me”) expresses the bittersweet feelings toward someone who sends mixed signals.
Many listeners will relate to the lyrics that capture the frustration of staying in a more-than-friends, less-than-lovers relationship that never quite comes together.
Paired with her conversational vocal style, it’s a breakup song that closely mirrors the emotions of young people.
Give it a listen—it’s frequently used in TikTok videos themed around poignant love stories.
Tearjerker songs recommended for women: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (41–50)
Baby Don’t CryAmuro Namie
Namie Amuro’s “Baby Don’t Cry” is one of those timeless songs whose appeal doesn’t fade with the years—it really resonates with the heart! While it carries a touch of poignancy, it also delivers an uplifting message, making it a true “anthem for those who keep moving forward.” Among her songs, this one is relatively easy to sing, and its melody is so catchy you can’t help but hum along after just one listen.
Also, if you bring extra emotion into the key-change section, it can create an even more moving effect.
When you’re feeling down, belt it out at karaoke—sometimes with friends, sometimes on your own—and let it lift your spirits!
SAD SONG feat. No No Girls FINALISTSchanmina
A special song by Chanmina and the “No No Girls” finalists has moved many to tears with its stirring performance.
The lyrics—filled with the bittersweetness behind happiness and a strong resolve to believe in the future—captivate listeners and make the piece deeply compelling.
Said to be based on Chanmina’s real experiences, it conveys the loneliness of chasing a dream and the importance of bonds with fellow travelers.
Released in January 2025, the song’s performance on THE FIRST TAKE in May of the same year tied in with the audition project and generated great emotion, topping YouTube for 10 days.
If you’re working hard at something, this song is sure to gently nudge you forward.
Don’t miss the chance to experience it.