Tear-jerking songs recommended for high school students: classic and popular Japanese hits
I think there are many kinds of tear-jerking songs—love songs, songs about dreams, songs about friends and family, and more.
I’ve gathered songs you’ve probably heard at least once, so if you listen while taking a close look at the lyrics, some of them might even make you cry!
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Tearjerker songs recommended for high school students: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (21–30)
A Clockwork DreamKeyakizaka46
It’s a song that vividly brings back a page of youth that everyone experiences—the farewell to a friend seen off on the station platform.
Sung by Keyakizaka46’s popular unit “Yui-chans,” this track was included on the single Glass wo Ware!, released in March 2018.
The gentle tones of the acoustic guitar delicately portray the distance between the city and one’s hometown, as well as a sense of loss for one’s dreams, as if a spring had suddenly unwound.
When you’re separated from your best friend and feel just a little lonely, this bittersweet yet warm melody may resonate in your heart.
It’s a work that softly stays by your side, as if to remind you that precious memories never fade, no matter how far apart you are.
ElfAdo
This song explores themes of loneliness and struggle, set in a fantastical world with profound messages.
Inspired by a legendary long-lived race, it portrays a solitary battle, growth, and confronting oneself.
Ado’s powerful vocals brilliantly capture both the strength and fragility of facing loneliness.
It is used as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Who Saw the Peacock Dance?” airing from January 2025, perfectly matching the world of the series starring Suzu Hirose.
Centered on strings and piano, the arrangement creates a richly emotional atmosphere, making it a memorable track that enhances the drama.
It’s a heartwarming anthem that gently supports those trying to carve out their own path or take a new step forward.
Tearjerker songs recommended for high school students: Japanese classics and popular hits (31–40)
tear(s)GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE
This is a song by the seven-member dance and vocal group GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE.
It was released in 2016 as their 12th single.
It’s a sad breakup ballad that portrays the end of a relationship.
The piano tones make the atmosphere of the song feel even more fleeting.
I hope to experience a love without regrets…
budGOOD ON THE REEL
It’s an emotional breakup song told from a man’s perspective as he tries to shake off his feelings for an ex.
The track is by GOOD ON THE REEL, a rock band formed in 2006.
It’s included on their second album, “Petry Is Calling,” released in 2015.
If you’re a high schooler who’s into bands, it might really resonate with you.
The band has a distinctive melodic sensibility.
I loved you to the point it hurt.Lisa Halim feat. JAY’ED
Even the past-tense title already feels bittersweet.
It’s a collaborative track by singer-songwriter Lisa Halim and singer JAY’ED.
It was released in 2008 as their third single.
Their clear, translucent vocals seep straight into the heart.
We areONE OK ROCK
An empowering anthem that stands by the anxieties and struggles of young people, powerfully singing the importance of living true to yourself! Taka from ONE OK ROCK delivers an emotionally rich vocal performance, and the fusion with the emotive melody creates a soul-stirring sound that leaves a lasting impression.
Featured on the album “Ambitions” and released in January 2017, this track was chosen as NHK’s soccer theme song and deeply moved many viewers.
It’s a warm song that supports and encourages not only students in the midst of their youth, but also those who feel unable to face societal pressures and surrounding prejudice, and those on the verge of losing their sense of self.
All rightPERIDOTS
The soothing tone of the acoustic guitar slips gently into the depths of my heart.
It’s a song by PERIDOTS, a band formed around singer-songwriter Koki Takahashi.
It’s included on their first album, “MY MIND WANDERS,” released in 2010.
The honest vocals have a charm that makes you want to keep listening.