[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 So Good You’ll Want to Tell Someone Right Away (41–50)
two-flower blossomikimonogakari
Ikimono-gakari is loved by many for their powerful vocals and lyrics that dive straight into the heart.
While “Arigatou” and “YELL” are often cited as their signature songs, this track, “Nirinbana,” is also a real gem.
It was included as the B-side to the 2006 single “Koisuru Otome” and served as the theme song for the Uplink-distributed film “Cherry Pie.” The lyrics—about continuing to love someone no matter what form that love takes—and the vocals, which savor each and every word, are deeply moving.
They inspire you to carry the invisible yet potent power of love within your heart as you live your life.
Further awayRemioromen
Known for their massive hits “Konayuki” and “March 9,” Remioromen is a three-piece rock band currently on hiatus.
This song is their 13th single overall, released as a double A-side with “Orchestra,” and it was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s coverage of the Beijing Olympics.
The richly layered ensemble—blending band sound with strings—evokes the stories of people fighting on their respective stages.
It’s a lyrical rock tune whose powerful, encouraging message is truly stirring.
Scatter, Scatter, Fill (feat. Masaki Suda)Kimyō Reitarō
Reitaro Kimyo is a singer-songwriter who also performs as the vocalist and guitarist of the band Tensai Band and works as a narrator for TV programs and commercials.
The digital-only single Chiru Chiru Michiru feat.
Masaki Suda, featuring Masaki Suda, grabs you from the opening with its somewhat nostalgic melody.
Its soulful ensemble is likely to captivate listeners of any generation.
The layered vocal harmonies are emotional, giving the track a universal appeal.
Two wordsyuzu
It’s a moving message song packed tightly with feelings for someone precious.
It’s a track by the musical duo Yuzu, who have produced numerous hit songs like “Eikou no Kakehashi” and “Muscat,” and it’s included on their ninth album, FURUSATO, released in 2009.
It’s said to have taken a long time to make, so it’s surely a song that means a lot to the two members of Yuzu.
As for what the “two words” in the title are, try inserting your own words and give it a listen.
Rainbow-Colored WarSEKAI NO OWARI
This is a work from before SEKAI NO OWARI’s major debut, back when the band was still called “Sekai no Owari.” The current fantasy feel of their style is a bit subdued here, and the four-on-the-floor groove gives it a catchy, danceable vibe! Also, you don’t see Fukase singing while playing the guitar much these days, do you? It’s a hidden gem that deserves to be called a masterpiece, brimming with a different kind of charm from what they have now.
Night of Osmanthuskinoko teikoku
The translucent guitar sound really sinks into your chest.
It’s a track by the rock band Kinoko Teikoku, included on their third album Time Lapse, released in 2018.
It combines a dreamy atmosphere with the essence of catchy guitar rock, making for a very pleasant listen.
Osmanthus blossoms bring to mind autumn… that chill in the air makes you long for someone, doesn’t it? It’s a nostalgic number that brings back memories of someone you once dated and leaves you with a bittersweet feeling.
Letterback number
“Tegami” is a song by back number released in 2015.
Since it was used in an NTT Docomo commercial, many people probably first heard it on TV.
The lyrics convey gratitude to the singer’s mother.
If you take the time to read them closely, it’s a song anyone can relate to, and it’s sure to warm your heart.
While back number is often recognized for their love songs, they’ve created masterpieces beyond that as well!