Recommended breakup songs for high school students: classic and popular J-pop tracks

A Tiny Love SongŌhara Sakurako

Sakurako Ohara as Riko Koeda – A Tiny Love Song (Short ver.) <Film: The Liar and His Lover>

This is the song that became the theme for the movie The Liar and His Lover, which was the breakthrough for Sakurako Ohara.

The melody is wonderful, of course, and the poignancy of the lyrics really hits home, so I recommend it to high school students dealing with heartbreak or to anyone parting from someone they love upon graduation.

Pure love, therefore the theory that human nature is evil.kusō iinkai

Fantasy Committee / Pure Love, Therefore the Bad-Nature Theory MV

Kusou Iinkai is a three-piece band formed in 2008 that I’d recommend to fans of Sakanaction and other festival-oriented bands.

Their breakup songs feel very real, with lyrics that depict situations where feelings for someone become twisted after heartbreak, yet still convey the lingering affection.

If there really is a destined person for meNishino Kana

Kana Nishino “If My Soulmate Exists” MV (Short Ver.)

There are many times when things don’t go the way we want—like when the person we like doesn’t like us back or a crush ends unrequited—but listening to this song makes me feel like I might meet my soulmate.

Even after many heartbreaks, I feel like I’ll meet someone wonderful.

One more time,One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi

Masayoshi Yamazaki – “One more time, One more chance” MUSIC VIDEO [4K Quality]

Masayoshi Yamazaki’s fourth single, released on January 22, 1997.

It served as the theme song for the animated film “5 Centimeters per Second.” The single was discontinued when the single best-of “BLUE PERIOD” was released, then reissued as the “5 Centimeters per Second” Special Edition on March 3, 2007.

It’s a song whose wish to reclaim lost time pierces the heart.

deep redMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Deep Crimson (Official Music Video)

A signature song by My Hair is Bad packed with the pain and joy of love.

From depictions of intimate moments to the sorrow of parting, the candid lyrics pierce the heart.

The emotional rock sound pairs perfectly with vocalist Tomomi Shiiki’s husky voice.

Since its release in July 2015, it has captivated fans and never let go.

Perfect for those carrying the pain of heartbreak or struggling with complicated relationships.

Listening to this song might give you the courage to face your own feelings.

Unreachable love songTani Yuuki

Unreachable love song – Tani Yuuki (Official Lyric Video)

Despite being said to have started his career in 2020, his YouTube subscriber count is already on the verge of reaching 500,000.

With nearly 50 releases including MVs and digital-only singles, I feel that Tani Yuuki is one of the artists riding the biggest wave right now.

Here’s one of Tani’s pop yet somehow bittersweet tracks, “Unreachable love song.” Rather than a full-on tearjerker, a “tour of places filled with memories” might pair better with the refreshing words of heartbreak.

If you want to shed tears you don’t want others to see, this song is highly recommended.

sentimentalculenasm

culenasm “Sentimental” (Official Music Video)

culenasm’s latest work beautifully portrays memories and regrets from the past.

Focusing on relationships with friends and lovers, it looks back on how a single casual remark can change everything.

Its distinctive sound—memories expressed through guitar tones and regrets through roaring noise—leaves a strong impression.

Released in February 2025, the song has garnered a huge response at live shows.

The music video, shot by the members themselves on an iPhone, is also available, allowing listeners to immerse themselves even more deeply in the song’s world.

It’s a highly recommended track for the graduation season, especially for those reflecting on past relationships or seeking music that truly resonates.