Masterpieces about girls: recommended popular songs

planetariumOtsuka Ai

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium (Short Ver.)

Ai Otsuka’s iconic song was released in September 2005 as the image song for the drama “Boys Over Flowers.” It beautifully portrays memories of a lost first love while gazing up at the starry sky.

The quiet melody that opens into a soaring chorus is striking, and the aching feelings of love hit close to the heart.

Ai Otsuka, at 19, was moved by the starry sky she saw over the dark sea in Ishikawa Prefecture and composed this song.

In a dreamlike, planetarium-like space, one hopes to preserve memories with someone special forever… You can feel the pure emotions of a woman in that wish.

If you want to soothe a heart hurt by unrequited love or heartbreak, give it a listen.

i love youchanmina

CHANMINA – i love you (Official Music Video)

Crafted by Chanmina, known by the nickname “Beyoncé of Nerima,” this song is imbued with a poignant desire to affirm one’s existence through the gaze of a loved one.

While carrying her own fragility and wavering, the lyrics resonate by honestly expressing feelings for someone dear.

The choice to start the title in lowercase reflects the artist’s wish to convey a reserved, understated emotion.

The layered, multi-tiered choruses leave a strong impression, carefully shaping the song’s emotional depth.

Released in October 2025, the track was written as the theme song for the double-lead drama “Fake Mommy,” starring Haru and Rina Kawaei.

Its exploration of reexamining love amid life’s changing phases aligns with the drama’s worldview.

It’s a perfect song for anyone who struggles to be straightforward in front of the person they like, yet still longs to convey their feelings.

User ManualNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Torisetsu' MV (Short Ver.)

This song portrays the delicate emotions of women through the fresh, inventive concept of an “instruction manual.” The phrase, “If I start to feel a bit worn and your eyes begin to wander, remember the day we first met,” expresses a woman’s wish for unwavering love.

Released in September 2015, it was also chosen as the theme song for the film No Longer Heroine (Heroine Shikkaku).

It resonated with many people, including through appearances at the 2015 and 2018 Kohaku Uta Gassen.

It’s a recommended track not only for women struggling with their relationships, but also for men who want to understand a woman’s heart.

roseTsuchiya Anna

ANNA inspi’ NANA(BLACK STONES) / rose

This is one of Anna Tsuchiya’s signature songs, known for its powerful vocals and memorable melody.

The themes of “the need for love” and “the pain of losing love,” combined with its cool, rock-driven sound, leave a deep impression on listeners.

Released in June 2006, it was also used as the theme song for the anime NANA.

It reached No.

6 on the Oricon charts and captured the hearts of many listeners.

Packed with Anna Tsuchiya’s appeal, this track is especially recommended when you’re going through heartbreak or feeling lonely.

Her strong, cool vocal presence is sure to give you courage.

threadNakajima Miyuki

Thread – Miyuki Nakajima (Full)

This song, known as one of Miyuki Nakajima’s signature works, features outstanding lyrics that liken encounters and bonds between people to a woven fabric.

It was included on the album “EAST ASIA” in February 1992, but its popularity surged after it was used as the theme song for the drama “Procession of Saints” in February 1998.

In 2020, it received even more attention when it was adapted into a film starring Masaki Suda and Nana Komatsu.

The lyrics, which depict the miracles of encounters in life, resonate with many people regardless of gender.

It is often sung softly at weddings and in farewells with loved ones.

GibbsShiina Ringo

Shiina Ringo – Gibbs

A song by Ringo Sheena said to have been written when she was 17, before her debut.

Released in January 2000, it drew attention as her first ballad single.

The complex emotions of romance and the fragility of human relationships are portrayed through her uniquely distinctive worldview.

It delicately expresses the feelings of a woman in love—her resistance to moments turning into the past when captured in photos, and her doubts about the word “absolute.” It debuted at No.

3 on the Oricon charts and reportedly surpassed 400,000 copies in first-week sales.

It’s a perfect song for women troubled by love, as well as for men who want to understand a woman’s heart.

Koto no Haayaka

Ayaka / “Kotonoha” Music Video (Short Ver.)

Ayaka’s signature song, infused with the power of words.

Its warm message of connecting hearts through letters resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in May 2017 as the theme song for the NHK drama “Tsubaki Stationery Store: Kamakura Daishoya Monogatari,” the track was written and composed by Ayaka herself, and its music video—featuring over 100 illustrations she drew—also drew attention.

The lyrics, which capture unspoken feelings for someone dear, are especially memorable and offer comfort to anyone who wishes they could go back and say what they left unsaid.

Give it a listen when you feel like reflecting on memories with a loved one or family.