Hidden gems of Japanese love songs. Recommended popular tracks.
If you’re starting to feel that the love songs you always listen to aren’t quite enough anymore, why not try some hidden gems?
I’m sure you’re very familiar with the songs that make it onto the hit charts.
But what about everything else?
There are surprisingly many songs by artists you know that you just haven’t listened to yet.
So in this article, we’ve gathered hidden masterpieces of love songs that you should hear at least once.
You might just find a wonderful classic you didn’t know before somewhere on this list.
- Hidden gems of love songs. Recommended popular tracks.
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Hidden gems of Japanese love songs. Recommended popular tracks (51–60)
An unfinished love song I’ve been working on foreverHata Motohiro
Hata Motohiro’s warm, tender voice weaves together feelings for someone precious.
This gem of a ballad delicately portrays a love that deepens with time, expressing ever-changing shades of affection through its poignant melody.
Released as the theme song for the film “A Love Letter on the 35th Year,” it was distributed digitally in February 2025, followed by a limited-edition CD single with Blu-ray in March.
The bonus video content, including three tracks such as the live performance “Raspberry Lover,” is also compelling.
It’s a song best enjoyed during calm moments—on a quiet walk home from work, or on a peaceful day spent thinking of someone dear.
FOR HiMBiSH
BiSH, a group that gained popularity as a new kind of music act beyond the boundaries of idols or artists.
The song “FOR HiM,” included on their 2017 album THE GUERRiLLA BiSH, showcases their ability to deliver a wide range of styles from rock to ballads.
Accompanied by an aggressive band performance driven by a passionate guitar riff, the song expresses love for someone important to whom those feelings couldn’t be fully conveyed.
It’s a rock number that, through their emotional vocals, faces the bittersweet feelings that arise when looking back on the past.
Good Luck in Summer and AutumnRA MU
RA MU was a band that delivered a unique sound by blending city pop with idol pop.
Fronted by Momoko Kikuchi, who is active as both an actress and singer, their hidden gem is “Natsu to Aki no Good-Luck.” The track was included on their 1988 album THANKS GIVING.
Centered on bright brass and synth tones, with a sinuous bassline added in, it comes together as a breezy, buoyant sound.
Set against the backdrop of the seaside at summer’s end, it’s an urban, soothing song where her translucent vocals poignantly capture a bittersweet romance.
carpaimyon
Koi is a heartbreak song themed around the proverb “the one that got away.” It was included on singer-songwriter Aimyon’s 2019 single Harunohi, a release that cemented her nationwide popularity.
Set to a lively ska-style beat, its acoustic guitar and synth tones ring out.
The lyrics portray the sorrow of not ending up with the one you love, depicting someone facing an unbearable reality alone.
With its rhythmic band arrangement contrasted by her emotional vocals, it’s a hidden gem.
Hidden gems of Japanese love songs: Recommended popular tracks (61–70)
RubyImai Miki
Miki Imai is a singer who has been active in a variety of fields—including modeling, acting, and singing—and has lived in the UK since 2012.
Her 11th single, “Ruby,” was selected as the ending theme for the music program Pop Jam.
Its bluesy ensemble over a relaxed shuffle beat, paired with her gentle vocals, creates a warmth that draws you in.
With lyrics that portray powerful love and shake the heart, it’s a heartfelt ballad number.
Make LoveAISHA
A catchy, cool track by Aisha, a next-generation dance-vocal singer.
The drum patterns are contemporary and the arrangement is engaging, capturing the exhilarating, refreshing charm unique to electro.
It’s a hidden love song with the makings of a classic that can resonate worldwide.
Ex-BoyfriendCrystal Kay
This is a hidden love song by Crystal Kay, one of Japan’s most skilled vocalists, themed around an ex-boyfriend.
Despite dealing with heartbreak and lingering feelings, it’s a poignantly sung piece.
It’s part of a series, allowing listeners to experience a variety of different worlds.
Though not widely known, it has a universal quality that lets you recognize it as a great track the moment you hear it.