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

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.

Cactus Flowerchūrippu

Cactus Flower

A poignant love song themed around parting and renewal with a loved one.

Sparked by a small incident one day, the girlfriend storms out of the room; from there, the lyrics delicately depict the scene of the room left behind and the man’s inner feelings.

Gentle lines evoke everyday images—the snowy view from the window, a half-knitted glove, laundry—rising vividly to the mind.

Released in February 1975, this work is cherished by many fans as one of Tulip’s signature songs.

It drew renewed attention as the theme song for the 1993 TV drama “Under One Roof,” making it widely known among younger generations as well.

Its beautiful melody, conveying both the pain of heartbreak and a sense of hope, carries a universal message that resonates with the heart.

It’s the perfect song for looking back on a bygone romance or deepening your feelings for someone special.

huge nuisanceyunikōn

Unicorn - “Great Nuisance”

A blissful newlywed life in a brand-new home is shattered by a sudden solo assignment away from the family…

This is a UNICORN song that portrays the sorrows and inner conflicts of a salaryman with plenty of humor.

Its dramatic melody, fused with orchestral elements, perfectly matches the song’s unique worldview, resulting in a masterpiece that sharply satirizes Japanese society during the bubble era.

Released in April 1989 as the lead single from the album “Hattori,” it reached No.

12 on the Oricon charts and remains immensely popular among fans.

With lyrics that empathize with the feelings of corporate warriors and a catchy, karaoke-friendly melody line, it’s perfect for gatherings where friends want to reminisce.

White LoversKuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Shiroi Koibito-tachi (Short ver.)

A gem of a ballad, richly expressing the bittersweet feelings of winter love, has been delivered by Keisuke Kuwata.

It’s a moving piece that looks back on warm memories of love, as if wrapped in snow, with a sense of blessing.

Rather than lamenting a past romance as a mere failure, it impressively celebrates the moments of that love from the heart.

Accompanied by a beautiful, resonant melody, it conveys a gentle warmth within the chill of winter.

Released in October 2001, the song was featured in a Coca-Cola commercial and sold 520,000 copies on the Oricon weekly chart.

It’s a perfect choice for winter karaoke with family and close friends when you want to share heartwarming memories.

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.

You Go Your WayCHEMISTRY

CHEMISTRY – You Go Your Way 【PV】

It was released in 2011 as CHEMISTRY’s third single.

It reached number one on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, and thanks to the song’s success, they made their first appearance at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

The song was also used in a collaboration commercial with Suntory’s BOSS, expressing the bittersweet feelings of two people who have separated and are walking their own paths.