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 (81–90)
The Girl Who Leapt Through TimeHarada Tomoyo
This was her third single, released in 1983.
With the same title, it served as the theme song for the film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, starring Tomoyo Harada.
In recent years, to commemorate the 35th anniversary of her debut, Harada remade the song herself and drew attention by making a rare appearance on a music program.
Her clear, transparent voice is adorable and wonderful.
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.
ALWAYSD-51
It’s the fifth single, released in 2005.
It was used as the theme song for the film “Always: Sunset on Third Street.” Although it wasn’t written specifically for the movie, its somewhat nostalgic melody makes it a perfect fit.
dearestKOH+
This song was written specifically as the theme for the film “The Devotion of Suspect X.” Its gentle piano melody and delicate string harmonies create a sound that evokes deep emotions.
Masaharu Fukuyama wrote, composed, and produced the track, while Kou Shibasaki provides the vocals, resulting in a collaboration that showcases each artist’s strengths.
The work is positioned as the second single by KOH+, released in December 2017.
Enhancing the film’s story, the song tenderly envelops the listener’s heart and unobtrusively accompanies their everyday life.
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.
Moon FlowerDAOKO
DAOKO, who is especially popular among teens and people in their twenties, created Tsuki no Hana as the theme song for the film Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos.
It’s an EDM track with a comfortable beat and a stylish vibe.
At the same time, it captures the film’s world and cleverly includes elements that link back to past theme songs, which is part of its appeal.
The song is included on the album that compiles the franchise’s theme songs, so why not take this opportunity to compare and listen?
Theme songs and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese film music (91–100)
StrongerEXILE
It’s a heartfelt ballad infused with a powerful message.
Even amid sadness and despair, it gives you the courage to keep moving forward.
EXILE’s harmonious vocals further enhance the song’s emotional depth.
Released in September 2010, it topped the Oricon charts.
Used as the theme song for the film “THE LAST MESSAGE: Umizaru,” it captured the hearts of many listeners.
This work has long been cherished as a song that stays close to life’s important milestones and times when we need to support one another.
It’s the perfect track for those facing difficulties or when you want to encourage someone dear to you.