[2026] Recommended for Men in Their 40s! A Collection of Classic Japanese Breakup Songs

By the time of the Christmas carolsInagaki Junichi

Junichi Inagaki – When It's Christmas Carol Time (Official Music Video)

Released in 1992 as Junichi Inagaki’s 27th single.

Sung from a male perspective, the song portrays a couple in a stagnant phase deciding to take some distance until Christmas to reassess their future together.

It was used as the theme song for the TBS TV drama “Homework” and became Inagaki’s biggest hit, selling over a million copies.

It also remains a popular Christmas standard.

somedaySaucy Dog

Saucy Dog "Someday" MUSIC VIDEO

A straightforward, honest love song that brings the ache and poignancy of heartbreak right to your chest.

Through real-life scenes—like the deserted park at Tawarayama and the sloping road where you can see the starry sky—the memories woven together vividly portray feelings for a precious person you can never meet again.

Released in May 2017 as a track on the album “Country Road,” this piece gently embraces an unforgettable love with warm lyrics that blend in the local Shimane dialect.

Its softly resonant melody offers quiet comfort to those who want to hold their one-sided love close, and to those who can’t quite put an end to a past romance.

Goodbyeofukōsu

Sayonara

This is a pure love ballad that poignantly portrays the end of a romance, released as an Off Course single in December 1979.

With Kazumasa Oda’s warm yet translucent vocals and a heart-stirring melody, the song richly conveys the sorrow of parting.

Its gentle, relatable lyrics—about a first heartbreak or a bittersweet farewell to someone dear—have made it a beloved classic that quietly resonates with listeners.

It was also featured as an insert song in the first season of the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B” and later included on the album “SELECTION 1978-81.” As a song that stands by you through the poignant end of love that comes with winter’s chill, it’s especially recommended for those facing a farewell with someone important.

Rainy Amusement ParkSasuke

Rainy Amusement Park

This is a ballad that poignantly depicts memories of a couple’s date at an amusement park and their bittersweet parting.

It weaves together contrasting scenes: a past moment of riding a carousel in the rain, and the present, where the narrator catches sight of a former lover with shorter hair, looking happy.

The lingering attachment the protagonist still feels, along with a quiet resolve to face forward and live on, gently presses on the heart.

A warm sound centered on acoustic guitar and piano highlights the story-rich lyrics.

Included on Sasuke’s album “Smile,” the piece was released in October 2004, reached No.

3 on the Oricon charts, sold over 450,000 copies, and was certified Platinum.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a rainy day, especially when you’re trying to heal the pain of a broken heart.

From our joined handsback number

back number – From the Hands We Held (full)

A poignant ballad that reflects on past romance and gradually realizes the value of a lost love.

It delicately portrays the warmth of happier days slowly cooling, as well as the magnitude of the other person’s presence that only becomes clear after the breakup.

Included on the 4th album “Love Story” released in March 2014, it was also used as the commercial song for JTB’s travel product “JTB Premium.” With a gentle, heart-touching melody and a relatable narrative, this song is relatively easy to sing at karaoke and is one you’ll want to try—especially if you’ve experienced heartbreak or parting.

Bye For NowT-BOLAN

T-BOLAN「Bye For Now」MV

A gem of a ballad etched in the hearts of many as a supportive anthem about a beautiful farewell.

Released by T-BOLAN in November 1992, this song was used as the theme for Woman Dream and went on to become a million-seller.

Its powerful message—singing of the courage and hope to move toward one’s dreams after overcoming the loneliness of parting—deeply resonates with listeners.

It remains a beloved choice for moments like parting from someone dear, graduation ceremonies, and new beginnings, retaining its luster more than 30 years after its debut.

Featured on the albums HEART OF STONE and SINGLES, it shines brightly as one of T-BOLAN’s signature songs.

cherrysupittsu

Spitz / Cherry

With its melodious sound and lyrical lyrics, this masterpiece gently stays close to the heart.

While looking back on the days of a bygone youth, the protagonist’s resolve to keep moving forward carries a warmth that invites everyone’s empathy.

Released in April 1996 and reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts, the song was also included on the album “Indigo Chiheisen,” and has been featured in NTT East’s TV commercials since 2019.

This piece is perfect for moments when you want to take a new step forward while cherishing memories with someone special, or when you feel like linking arms with friends and singing together—any time you need a boost of positivity.