[Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now

The Wind of BeginningsHirahara Ayaka

The Story of Saiunkoku OP – The Wind of Beginnings (Ayaka Hirahara)

A song by singer-songwriter Ayaka Hirahara, who shot to prominence with the smash-hit debut single “Jupiter,” based on the melody of the classical masterpiece The Planets.

This track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime The Story of Saiunkoku and is included on her fourth album, 4tsu no L (Four Ls).

The oriental tones layered over a string-featured ensemble resonate with the anime’s worldview.

With an emotional vocal that soothes both mind and body, it’s a masterpiece that even conveys a sense of grandeur.

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Hoshino Takashi

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summer visitKahara Tomomi

Summer visit Tomomi Kahala solo piano/vocal performance #fanksfes

It’s a song included on Tomomi Kahala’s first original album, “LOVE BRACE,” released in 1996.

It instantly achieved million-selling first-week sales.

The track was recorded while looking out at the ocean, and she has said she wanted it to be released as a single.

Letter ~To My Beloved~Fujita Maiko

[Chinese-Japanese Subtitles PV] Maiko Fujita - Letter ~To My Beloved~

Released in 2013 as Maiko Fujita’s ninth single.

The lyrics express straightforward gratitude to one’s parents, making it a moving song often used at weddings.

It is also known as a staple track for “ruikatsu,” events where people refresh their minds and bodies by having a good, cathartic cry.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTIONNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION' Live Performance

Kana Nishino, who has created numerous love songs such as “Aitakute Aitakute” and “Torisetsu,” has a track that likens romance to a romantic film: “LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION.” By the way, the title comes from the cue used when shooting movies: lights, camera, action.

The lyrics are sprinkled with lines from classic romance films, so movie lovers will find plenty of fun discoveries.

It’s available on all major streaming services, so be sure to check it out!

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yamamoto

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dizzinessOnitsuka Chihiro

Chihiro Onitsuka – Dizziness

When it comes to Chihiro Onitsuka, Gekkou is her most famous song, but all the singles she released one after another since 2000 were big hits.

One of them is Memai, released in 2001.

It was featured in a commercial and won the Lyrics Award at the 43rd Japan Record Awards, making it a very popular track from her early period.

While many of her songs carry a certain sharp, painful edge, this one is a love song that evokes a quiet sense of despair.

When love feels exhausting, or when you’re stuck in a hopeless relationship, why not let this gentle song soothe your sadness?

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Tani Satoko

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in ordinary wordsWANDS

07 In Ordinary Words

The soaring high-tone vocals seep into your heart.

This is a song by WANDS, a rock band formed in 1991.

It’s included on their sixth single, “Koi Seyo Otome,” released in 1993.

The song is a heartbreak piece that sings of feelings for a precious person who is no longer here.

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Araki Jakkan

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WhistleMoriguchi Hiroko

Whistle

Hiroko Moriguchi, a pop idol singer who also thrives on variety shows, is well-known as an anison (anime song) singer for scoring hits with theme songs for Mobile Suit Gundam.

Her 13th single, “Whistle,” released in 1993, is a track produced by Kaori Okui of Princess Princess.

It was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s variety show Yume ga MORI MORI.

With a driving, uplifting sound that powerfully cheers someone on, it’s a fast-paced song that energizes its listeners.

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nikki

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