Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music.
What are your favorite theme songs or insert songs from Japanese films?
In this article, we’ve selected beloved classics that once topped the charts and are still cherished by listeners, as well as the latest theme songs from Japanese movies—picked based on research by our editorial team and tips from music fans!
So, what kind of works made the list?
You’re probably curious whether your favorites are included, right?
We carefully chose from a wide range of Japanese films, old and new, so please enjoy!
You’re sure to find some nostalgic tunes too!
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Theme and insert songs from Japanese films: Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music (71–80)
Beyond the nighttsuru
It’s their eighth single, released in 2012.
It was also used as the theme song for the film Afro Tanaka, starring Shota Matsuda.
The track was created by the rock band Tsurugi, and it’s characterized by a crisp, masculine sound arrangement.
evolutionHamasaki Ayumi
Accompanied by a powerful, emotionally stirring melody, Ayumi Hamasaki’s “evolution,” a song about single-mindedly moving forward, is an unforgettable track for many fans.
Released in 2001, it shot up the charts in no time and has become a karaoke staple.
Its lyrics carry a positive message of overcoming setbacks and continuing to evolve, giving many listeners courage and hope.
With assured vocals and a performance overflowing with emotion, it still grips countless hearts—an ideal song to recommend when you need that extra burst of power.
All of the YouthFujifaburikku
It is included on the compilation album “Koi no Uta ~Inspired by the film Chihayafuru~,” which features many songs that match the story of the movie starring Suzu Hirose.
It’s a 2007 track by Fujifabric.
The song was included because it was thought to suit the image of the Hyakunin Isshu poem about late summer, “Kaze soyogu~.” The atmosphere of the poem—capturing the time just after Obon has passed, when you begin to feel the signs of autumn—perfectly matches the mood of this song.
Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music (81–90)
RainHata Motohiro
This is the ending theme of Makoto Shinkai’s 2013 film The Garden of Words.
In keeping with the rain that serves as a key element of the story, it is a cover of Senri Oe’s Rain.
There is also a song titled Kotonoha, written by Motohiro Hata as the image song for the film.
without even blinkingNakajima Miyuki
When it comes to masterpieces that sing of life’s resolve, this is the one! Released in October 1998, it’s Miyuki Nakajima’s 36th single.
Chosen as the theme song for Yoji Yamada’s film “Gakko III,” it added profound emotion to the story.
Set to a dramatic band sound, it portrays a powerful will: standing at a crossroads in life, steeling oneself and fixing one’s gaze on the future.
The determination to never look away for even a moment and to etch each precious instant into one’s heart is so earnest it almost hurts, tightening your chest.
You can feel the protagonist, who shakes off all hesitation and looks only forward, gently giving you a push from behind.
It’s a song that becomes a reassuring ally whenever you’re about to start something new.
Grand Escape feat. Toko MiuraRADWIMPS
RADWIMPS is a rock band that has influenced countless artists and made its presence felt across a wide range of fields, from rock to film music.
The track Grand Escape feat.
Toko Miura, included on the soundtrack of the animated film Weathering With You, features Miura’s vocals—chosen after a year-long audition process—that are truly pleasant to the ear.
From the striking opening piano phrase to the choral section at the end, its dramatic arrangement is overwhelming just to listen to.
It’s an emotional number that sends shivers through your heart no matter how many times you hear it.
Spring Dayaimyon
It’s the theme song for the movie Crayon Shin-chan: Honeymoon Hurricane – The Lost Hiroshi.
Written from Hiroshi’s perspective, it centers on his proposal to his wife, Misae, Shin-chan’s parents.
Aimyon also poured into the song her deep affection for Crayon Shin-chan, of which she’s been a fan since childhood.
It’s a gentle, comforting track featuring Aimyon’s soft, non-aggressive vocals.