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 (111–120)
THE SKY FALLSXAI
This song weaves together a grand scale with delicate emotional expression.
XAI’s mystical vocals powerfully convey the strength and hope to face adversity.
The image of wings slicing through thick clouds is striking and resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in May 2018, the track was used as the theme song for the animated film GODZILLA: City on the Edge of Battle.
XAI performed the theme songs for all three films in the GODZILLA trilogy, brilliantly expressing their world through music.
It’s a powerful piece that encourages those who strive to keep moving forward despite hardship.
Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music (121–130)
live and dieXAI
This is the theme song for the film “GODZILLA: The Planet Eater,” featuring XAI’s voice resonating with a mystical quality.
It powerfully yet delicately portrays emotions wavering between life and death, freedom and restraint.
The contrast between stillness and dynamism in Masayuki Nakano’s composition and arrangement further enhances the song’s appeal.
Released in November 2018, this track showcases XAI’s talent, who performed all the theme songs for the GODZILLA trilogy.
It’s a soul-stirring piece that resonates with those carrying deep emotions and inner conflict.
staraiko
It’s a single released in 2005 and the theme song for the animated film “Arashi no Yoru ni.” The movie is based on a picture book.
For aiko, it was her first movie theme song since her debut single “Ashita.” With this song, she made her fourth appearance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
my nameback number
When I listen to the song “Boku no Namae o,” I’m overcome by a stirring feeling.
The lyrics portray a unique mix of anxiety and anticipation in love.
Back Number has long captivated music fans with songs that feel like stories, and this track is no exception.
While it colors the imagery of the film, it also conveys a universal theme that goes beyond it.
Along with its heartrending melody, it will become a fragment of people’s memories.
It’s a track I’d recommend as a karaoke staple—one in which each listener’s own story comes alive.
I feel like going home.ikimonogakari
Conveying a gentle compassion from the depths of the heart, “Kaeritaku Natta yo” stirs listeners’ nostalgia and longing.
Released in 2008, the song was written as the theme for the film “Sand Clock.” In addition to its strong showing on the Oricon charts, it has surely become a memorable ballad for many listeners.
Its melody, blending ache and warmth, has the power to evoke distant hometowns and cherished people.
The more you listen, the deeper the resonance, making it a song that holds a special place among the many pieces that color Japanese cinema.
futureKobukuro
The song “Mirai,” which powerfully reflects the world of the film Orange that portrays the bittersweet love of high school students, offers courage and warmth to its listeners.
As one of Kobukuro’s signature works, it’s a ballad whose gentle melody and uplifting lyrics resonate deeply.
Possessing the power to rekindle the film’s moving emotions, this track, which explores the universal theme of “wanting to be with the one you love no matter what,” will continue to be cherished by many listeners for a long time.
By listening to this poignant yet warm, emotion-filled piece, you’ll find yourself recalling not only memories of the movie, but also precious moments with someone dear to you.
Just as that sun continues to illuminate this world.Kobukuro
It’s their 21st single, released in 2011.
It was also used as the theme song for the film “Gaku: Minna no Yama,” starring Shun Oguri.
After reading the original manga, the two members of Kobukuro chose “life” as the theme and crafted a song with a strong message.