[Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now
Beyond the trendy songs you often hear on TV or around town, and the tracks tied in with dramas or anime that everyone knows, there are also hidden gems—songs from before an artist got big or tracks without any tie-ins.
This time, we’ll introduce those hidden masterpieces that are especially popular among the artists’ fans.
Many of these songs don’t get much TV exposure, but they’re well-known among fans—once you listen, you’re sure to get hooked! If you haven’t been exploring or adding new music lately and want something fresh to listen to, this is for you.
I hope you find a new favorite track!
- A hidden gem known only to those in the know. A great J-pop/Japanese song.
- Memorable masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- A catchy tune that sounds familiar
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- Hidden gems of love songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems and lesser-known songs by popular Japanese rock bands
- Hidden gems among tear-jerker songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems of inspirational songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems of healing songs. Recommended popular tracks
- [Cheer Song] A hidden gem that stirs the soul. A rallying anthem known to those in the know.
- [Must read] Songs with great lyrics. Moving songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics
- Nothing but masterpieces! Hit songs from the Reiwa era that are perfect for background music
[Hidden Gems] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share Right Now (31–40)
LetterSHE’S
This is a moving song that portrays conflict and growth in human relationships through a dialogue with oneself.
Its deep melody, where poignancy and warmth coexist, and its lyrics that delicately weave subtle emotions resonate deeply with listeners.
SHE’S released the track as a digital single in October 2019, and it is also included on their album Tragicomedy.
In 2020, it was featured as the commercial song for Nintendo’s game Animal Crossing: New Horizons and the Nintendo Switch Lite.
It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who wants to face the many emotions of life or who is struggling with relationships with loved ones.
I can’t put it into words well.yuzu
If you feel too shy to express your feelings to your partner, this song might help.
Created by the music duo Yuzu—known for hits like “Glory Bridge” and “Muscat”—it’s included on their eighth album, WONDERFUL WORLD, released in 2008.
It’s a heartrending love ballad that’s warm yet moving.
Listening to it will surely make you think, “I want to cherish the person who’s by my side right now.”
filmHoshino Gen
It’s a comforting song that feels like it captures small, everyday moments.
The relaxed rhythm and gentle melody intertwine beautifully, soothing the worries and loneliness of daily life.
Released in February 2012, it was written as the theme song for the film “The Woodsman and the Rain.” Gen Hoshino’s delicate vocals tenderly paint the memories reflected deep within eyes like frames of film.
For those who’ve seen the movie, it brings the entire story back to mind; for those who haven’t, it offers a standalone world to enjoy.
It’s a warm, heartfelt track you’ll want to listen to on a quiet night—alone or with someone you cherish.
SWEET TWEETOfisharu Higedan Dism
A song by Official HIGE DANDism, the four-piece piano pop band known by the nickname “Higedan,” who are taking the J-pop scene by storm with their exceptional pop sensibilities.
It opens their first nationwide release, the debut mini-album “Love and Peace Are in You,” and the breezy, piano-featured intro feels great.
The high-quality ensemble and catchy melody make it clear that the band’s sensibilities were already fully formed in their indie days.
It’s a hidden gem that I’d recommend checking out even if you’re not a Higedan fan.
TokyoKetsumeishi
Tokyo is a warm, encouraging number that embraces and gives a push to people who leave their hometowns for the big city, released by Ketsumeishi in 2005.
With its simple, straightforward melody and lyrics, Tokyo is loved as a hidden gem among their many hits.
Depicting the setbacks and loneliness experienced in the place one once dreamed of, and the recovery from them, Tokyo serves as emotional support for those fighting in their own cities of aspiration.
With gently spoken rap verses and a tender, melodic chorus, it can be called a cheer song for people who leave their hometowns and strive to make it in the city.
[Hidden Gems] Japanese Songs So Good You’ll Want to Tell Someone Right Away (41–50)
everlasting lampPEOPLE 1
This is a hidden gem by PEOPLE 1 that portrays the doubts and struggles faced by young people today, carried by a gentle and beautiful melody.
The lyrics, which question the formation of self and how to face society, resonate deeply and quietly illuminate the heart like lights floating in the night sky.
Released in July 2020 as their second digital single, it was later included on the album GANG AGE, released in September of the same year.
The music video recorded 1.4 million views in about two weeks, drawing attention for its pop, light dance animation.
This work is recommended for young people searching for their own path and for anyone seeking a light in their heart.
Its deeply empathetic message and comfortable groove are sure to stay close to the listener’s heart.
Two HeartsMiura Daichi
This song portrays the depth of love in which two hearts become one.
It’s a track included on Daichi Miura’s album “The Entertainer,” and it was also released as a single in May 2012.
The song’s themes are the bond and trust between two people, as well as hope for a future they will walk together.
Seamlessly blending Daichi Miura’s vocal prowess with his dance performance, this work is recommended for those who want to feel a profound connection with a loved one.
In the music video, Daichi Miura himself handles the choreography and delivers a stunning performance alongside the dancers.