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 (141–150)
facing each otheraiko
The hugely popular manga “My Darling Is a Foreigner” was adapted into a live-action film in 2010, and its theme song was this track, aiko’s “Mukaiawase.” True to the title, it stars Mao Inoue and portrays the ins and outs of an international marriage, with the protagonist’s lover—later her husband—being a foreigner.
aiko’s songs are beloved not only by women but also by many men.
This love song, packed with the charm of aiko—who has no equal when it comes to singing about heart-fluttering romance—is a moving love ballad whose poignant melody resonates deeply.
I’m happy.ikimonogakari
Ikimonogakari, who have released numerous hit tunes featuring their soft, straightforward vocals, put out their 34th single Ureshikute as a double A-side with Tokimeki.
The song was selected as the theme for the animated film Pretty Cure All Stars F.
Its positive lyrics, which evoke the image of moving forward without being defeated by adversity, beautifully complement the story portrayed in the movie.
It’s a heartfelt ballad with an impressive, grand ensemble featuring piano and strings.
Let tomorrow be sunny.yuzu
It was selected as the theme song for the film “Talk, Talk, Talk,” in which Taichi Kokubun of TOKIO plays a rakugo performer.
This single is a bit unusual in that it was released not only as a Yuzu single, but also as a single from the film’s soundtrack, which includes the movie’s score and rakugo.
Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music (151–160)
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)Gurīn Bōizu
“Michi” from the 2017 film Kiseki: Ano Hi no Sobito.
The movie is modeled on the vocal group GReeeeN.
Since the real GReeeeN members don’t show their faces, the roles are played by Masaki Suda, Ryusei Yokohama, Ryo Narita, and Yosuke Sugino, and they actually made their CD debut with this song.
Because the film is based on GReeeeN’s real activities and songs, the Green Boys sing the songs that GReeeeN performed.
It’s fun to listen and compare the original and this version, isn’t it?
Mechanism of pointillismYoshii Kazuya
Kazuya Yoshii, also known as the vocalist of THE YELLOW MONKEY and recognized for his trademark sultry voice, is a singer-songwriter.
His 12th single, “Tenbyō no Shikumi” (The Mechanism of Pointillism), used as the theme song for the film Key of Life, features an ensemble with a distinctly different atmosphere from his band work.
The lyrics give you a push to move forward rather than getting stuck overthinking, and may help lighten the hearts of those who feel immobilized in their daily lives.
It’s a brisk rock tune where the contrast between the airy melody and the tight sound feels just right.
OH MY LITTLE GIRLOzaki Yutaka
OH MY LITTLE GIRL, a famous song by Yutaka Ozaki that sings of sweet, passionate feelings for a loved one.
It was included on the 1983 album Seventeen’s Map and later released as a single in 1994.
When the single came out in 1994, it was used as the theme song for the TV drama The End of the World, and in 2014 it was chosen as the theme song for the film Hot Road.
The steady, flowing melody paired with Ozaki’s fervent vocals makes the love woven into the lyrics resonate even more deeply.
Because it won’t reach / Because it doesn’t reachHirai Ken
The theme song of the movie “50 First Kisses.” It’s a poignant love ballad that sings of both the beauty and the fragility of thinking about someone dear.
Written and performed by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai—known for many classics such as “Hitomi wo Tojite”—the song was released in 2018 as his 43rd single.
Despite its simple arrangement, where does this depth come from? The vocals, or the message… It’s a masterpiece you can’t help but relate to your own life, a song you can use as a compass for living.
