A heartbreak song known to those in the know. Hidden gems of Japanese music that resonate with the heart.
When you go through a heartbreak, it can feel like there’s a gaping hole in your heart.
You want to cry but no tears come, you want to talk to someone but can’t find the words.
In moments like these, isn’t it music that gently stays by your side? In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of hidden gems in Japanese breakup songs—from those from a male perspective to those from a female perspective.
Their poignant lyrics and melodies are sure to speak for how you’re feeling right now.
We hope you can immerse yourself as much as you need, and that it becomes a small step toward looking forward again.
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A heartbreak song known to those in the know. Hidden gems of touching Japanese music (31–40)
I want to see youGACKT
GACKT’s song is a ballad that delicately portrays the ache of unrequited love.
Its gentle melody, built around live piano and acoustic guitar, is layered with GACKT’s emotionally rich vocals, resonating deeply with listeners.
The lyrics, which empathize with those who have experienced a breakup, may help soothe the pain of heartbreak.
Released in October 2004, the track was also used as the ending theme for “The Wide.” It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who continues to hold feelings for someone important.
You might find it nice to listen while letting your thoughts drift to a lover from your memories.
Effeminate; overly sentimental; being clingy/whiny (context-dependent)Gōruden Bonbā
It’s a signature song by the visual kei rock band Golden Bomber.
This track catapulted Golden Bomber to fame and even earned them a spot on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It’s upbeat and popular at karaoke, but it’s also a heartbreak song told from a male perspective.
First LoveUtada Hikaru
A famous song that just about everyone knows.
The album it’s on, First Love, was a mega-hit, and even now every track still feels exceptional.
I was in elementary school at the time, and I remember all my friends could sing this song fluently—even the English lyrics.
It really was that much of a social phenomenon.
Cape TourYamamoto Kōtarō & Uīkendo
Misaki Meguri (Cape Tour) is a masterpiece created in the 1970s by the unit Yamamoto Kotaro & Weekend.
Although it is a heartbreak song, it gently sings of a man traveling alone around capes, and it won the support of many young people, becoming a huge hit.
Close your eyesHirai Ken
This is one of Ken Hirai’s signature songs as a singer-songwriter.
It also made waves as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” Covered by other artists, it has become a timeless classic.
It’s arguably a quintessential heartbreak song.
A heartbreak song known to those in the know. Hidden gems of moving Japanese music (41–50)
Kanna Route 8Matsutōya Yumi
It’s a classic powerhouse song, also included on their best-of album.
Even as it’s struck by the sadness of a broken heart, it makes you feel a reckless surge of energy—like you want to take off running, like you just want to get away somewhere.
youHY
It’s a heartbreak song.
I couldn’t be honest and I regret that, but it’s a song about how I truly loved from the bottom of my heart.
It’s my favorite song.
I really relate to it.
When I listen to it, I remember the relationship I had back then.
The lyrics, entrusted to the singer, are so relatable.
They express exactly how I feel.
I think many women feel the same.
I believe it’s a song many women can relate to.