Hidden gem tearjerker songs. Recommended popular tracks

HOMEAnjura Aki

Angela Aki “HOME” Music Video

It was released in 2005 as Angela Aki’s major-label debut single.

Despite having no tie-in, it gradually became a hit, and with this song she made her first appearance at the 57th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s a gentle song that brings your hometown to mind and makes you feel like going back there.

planetariumOtsuka Ai

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium (Short Ver.)

It was released in 2005 as Ai Otsuka’s 10th single.

The song was used as an image song for the drama Boys Over Flowers, which became a big hit starring Mao Inoue, and it incorporates many traditional Japanese elements.

It’s a song that reflects on a beloved person far away on a summer night.

If only you were here so I could hold you.miwa

miwa 'If You Were Here So I Could Hold You'

This song, “If You’re Here and I Can Hold You,” was the theme song for the drama “Kounodori,” starring Go Ayano, which focuses on obstetric medicine.

Centered on the theme of “love” that can be seen as directed toward both a lover and family, it’s a number that slips gently into anyone’s heart.

Even when you’re feeling down or shaken by something, having someone by your side who has this much love makes you feel that everything will be okay.

It reminds you that, even if you don’t usually notice it, you are wrapped in deep love.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

How to Love AfterimagesTele

Tele | How to Love Afterimages – Music Video

A delicate sonic world, woven to gently embrace the pain and regret that lie deep within the heart.

Riding on Tele’s slowly flowing, lyrical melodies, the song about a lost love quietly stays close to the listener’s heart.

The tender, almost whispering vocals and the dreamlike soundscape that seems to reflect a city at night create a space filled with a familiar, aching nostalgia.

Released in February 2025, this work serves as the theme song for Tele’s nationwide tour, coloring 12 shows across 9 cities starting in March.

It’s a song that gently accompanies those who have experienced parting with a loved one or who carry unspoken feelings in their hearts.

tear-coloredNishino Kana

Kana Nishino – Namidairo (Full Chinese Subtitles Version)

It was released in 2013 as Kana Nishino’s 21st single.

Although it’s about a breakup, it’s a gentle, positive heartbreak song that wishes to cherish the time they were together as beautiful memories rather than painful ones.

Its tender melody really touches the heart.

Unrequited loveSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Unrequited Love” MV

SUPER BEAVER’s in-show song for NHK’s late-night drama “Vanilla na Mainichi” delivers a powerful rendition of aching, unrequited love that truly stirs the heart.

It’s a gem of a ballad where a melody that gently cradles a faint yearning blends beautifully with subtly warm lyrics.

First released digitally on March 7, 2025, and included on the single “Kataomoi / Namida no Shoutai,” out March 12, the track enriches the drama’s world alongside its main theme, “Namida no Shoutai.” With tender, emotional soundscapes and the band’s signature straightforward message, this heartwarming song keeps you company in those quiet moments when you secretly think of someone you love.

Everything (It’s you)Mr.Children

Mr.Children “Everything (It’s you)” Mr.Children Tour 2004 Shifuku no Oto

Mr.Children has many hit songs, and no matter which one you pick, their lyrics feel profound, often striking at the sorest spots deep in the heart.

“Everything (It’s you)” is another masterpiece that pierces the chest and resonates with a weary soul.

It sings of inner conflict as if questioning oneself, and as you listen, you feel a prick, prick in your own heart—there’s something almost sermon-like about it.

It’s the kind of song that, when you’re exhausted, brings you to tears before you know it.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem