Japanese breakup songs sung by female artists

I long to see you now.MISIA

MISIA – Aitakute Ima (Official HD Music Video)

Do you have someone you desperately want to see but can no longer meet—a past love? Regrets in romance are truly painful, aren’t they? I think everyone has felt at least once that they wish they could go back to that day.

“Aitakute Ima” is sung from a woman’s perspective about those very feelings, so when you listen to it in hard times, it’s incredibly relatable!

planetariumOtsuka Ai

Planetarium – Ai Otsuka (Full)

Planetarium, a song by Ai Otsuka, expresses the heartfelt longing of wanting to see someone you love but being unable to.

Although the lyrics are a bit melancholic, Ai Otsuka’s clear voice and refreshing melody make it a highly recommended track for anyone feeling down about love right now!

HeyDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – “Hey”

Nee, written and composed by Miwa Yoshida, is characterized by lyrics that portray the pain and heartache of love from her perspective.

Its gentle words, which understand the hardship you’re feeling now, are sure to be very encouraging.

It’s a song I want people who are currently hurt by love to listen to.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

Singer Yo Hitoto, who hails from Okinawa.

When you think of her, it has to be Hanamizuki, released in 2004.

It’s said she wrote the lyrics inspired by the September 11 attacks in the United States.

The words about wishing to stay with a loved one for a long, long time are deeply moving.

She and TIP ON DUOImai Miki

She and TIP ON DUO

This is a famous song by Miki Imai that leaves a strong impression with its portrayal of an independent woman who gracefully moves on from heartbreak.

The lyrics were written by Yasushi Akimoto and the music composed by Chika Ueda, and the urban, smooth sound is wonderfully stylish.

While acknowledging where her former partner is now, the lyrics depict her stepping forward flexibly into her own future; combined with Imai’s transparent vocals, it’s a song that seems to breathe a refreshing breeze into the listener’s heart.

Released in August 1988, the track was used in a Shiseido campaign and became a major talking point.

Jun Sato, who arranged the piece, is also known for winning the Arranger Award at the 30th Japan Record Awards for this sophisticated production.

Why not enjoy this song as background music for a weekend drive or a relaxing café time?

I want to be dumped with a happy endingAnri

I want to be dumped with a happy ending

If it’s going to end anyway, I’d rather keep it as a beautiful memory—this is a heartbreak song where bravado and true feelings intermingle.

Released in March 1987 as Anri’s 20th single, the track was featured in a JT “SomeTime LIGHTS” commercial.

It’s also included on the classic album SUMMER FAREWELLS.

Anri’s vocals resonate with the bittersweetness of a fading summer, striking straight to the heart.

The lyrics, portraying a brave yet sorrowful protagonist trying to smile in the face of parting, really hit home.

On nights when you want to look just a little ahead and sort through your memories even amid painful heartbreak, give it a listen.

Ephemeral SummerTakeuchi Anna

Anna Takeuchi – Ephemeral SUMMER (Music Video)

Released in July 2022 by singer-songwriter Anna Takeuchi, this work is a piece of city pop whose effervescent, fizzy sound feels delightful—like sparkling soda.

At first listen it sounds like a bright summer tune, but it actually portrays the premonition of a love that seems as if it might vanish like bubbles.

While she puts on a brave face saying, “I’m fine without you,” underneath it all lies a heartfelt longing to stay by their side, a bittersweet feeling that resonates deeply.

On a late summer night, this song will surely keep you gentle company.