Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
Here are some tear-jerking J-Pop songs I’d recommend for women in their 40s!
Your 40s can be a busy time, with lots of changes both at work and in your personal life.
In the midst of an overly hectic routine, you might feel worn out or suddenly feel like crying when you finally get a moment to breathe.
At times like that, why not listen to some songs that let you cry and reset your feelings?
I’ve gathered a variety of moving tracks—songs you might have listened to in your youth, as well as ones that resonate precisely because of the age you are now.
When your body and mind both feel unsettled, please give them a listen.
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Tearjerker songs recommended for women in their 40s: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (81–90)
User ManualNishino Kana
This song, Kana Nishino’s 27th single, was the theme song for the film “No Longer Heroine.” She reportedly wrote it after reading the movie’s script.
Written as a kind of instruction manual for understanding women, the song sings about the inner feelings and girlish heart that men often find hard to grasp, and it’s a track frequently used in wedding scenes.
tear-coloredNishino Kana
Kana Nishino’s 21st single, “Namidairo” (Tear-Colored), was released in 2013.
Many people likely listened to her love songs a lot back then.
This song is one that brings tears, as it recalls someone you once loved and blends a mix of emotions—contrasting fond memories with the sadness you feel now.
Does someone come to mind when you listen to it? It might be nice to occasionally revisit in your heart the precious memories of someone you can never forget.
Goodbye, my beloved.Hana＊Hana
A gemlike ballad where poignancy and warmth coexist.
Centered on parting with a loved one, it delicately portrays sorrow, lingering attachment, and the resolve to move forward.
The stirring, beautiful melody and the gentle timbre of the piano highlight Hana*Hana’s clear, transparent harmonies.
Released in October 2000, the song drew attention as the theme for the TBS drama “Oyaji.” Embracing the hearts of those who have experienced a breakup or a farewell to someone dear, it continues to be loved by many as a song that gently gives you a push forward.
Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi
Known by the abbreviation “Elekashi,” Elephant Kashimashi is a four-piece rock band whose 34th single features Hiroji Miyamoto’s instinctive, impassioned vocals that leave a powerful impression.
Used as the CM song for House Foods’ “Ukon no Chikara,” the track gives you a strong push from the very first moment with powerful, straightforward lyrics.
Its message, one that resonates precisely because you’re in your 40s, offers courage while also tugging at the heartstrings.
It’s a gem of a rock tune that those who are giving their all will especially relate to.
wedgeOku Hanako
People shouldn’t make promises they can’t keep, and yet we promise to meet because we want to hold on.
Even after years have passed, it’s not that either of us came to hate the other.
Isn’t that why we end up thinking of the person we loved and crying?
Love is a flower, and you are its seed.Miyako Harumi
This is the 97th single by Harumi Miyako, a singer known as a national enka star who gained popularity for her unique vocal style dubbed the “Harumi-bushi.” It is a Japanese-lyric cover of Bette Midler’s “The Rose,” chosen as the theme song for the Studio Ghibli film Only Yesterday.
Its lyrics—conveying that even if things aren’t going well now, a time will come when your efforts are rewarded—may resonate especially deeply with women in their 40s who likely encountered the film in real time.
A beautiful melody woven with a singer’s voice that is both powerfully enka-like and lyrical soothes the heart, making this a timeless masterpiece that transcends genres.
Tear-Jerking Songs Recommended for Women in Their 40s: Classic and Popular Japanese Hits (91–100)
Ti AmoEXILE
If you’re a grown woman, chances are you’ve experienced a forbidden love or fallen for someone you shouldn’t have, haven’t you? The lyrics are tear-jerking.
It’s a masterpiece of a ballad that Japan is proud of, singing a heartrending love with gentle melancholy.