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: classic and popular pieces of Japanese movie music (21–30)
Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK
The manga Kingdom, with its grand world-building, is especially popular among men.
The anime also gained popularity, and it was adapted into a live-action film starring Kento Yamazaki, which became a major hit.
The theme song is Wasted Nights by ONE OK ROCK.
It’s an original track written for this work that perfectly matches the epic scale of the story.
Although most of the lyrics are in English, I recommend listening while reading the Japanese translation—you’ll feel how well the meaning fits the imagery of the piece.
KanadeSukima Suichi
Many people would probably say this is their favorite among the group’s songs.
It’s one of the signature tracks by the musical duo Sukima Switch, released as their second single in 2004.
It served as the theme song for the films “Rough” and “One Week Friends.” The lyrics, which depict a farewell with someone precious, are truly moving.
The gentle vocals, perfectly suited to the relaxed tempo, further deepen the song’s appeal.
It’s a classic ballad that makes you want to love without regrets.
Is there still anything that love can do?RADWIMPS
It’s the theme song of Makoto Shinkai’s film Weathering with You.
It is included on the soundtrack CD of the film with the same title.
Following their previous work on Your Name, Shinkai and RADWIMPS have collaborated once again.
In addition to this song, RADWIMPS also participated as the film’s overall music directors.
The song’s expansive worldview and the atmosphere of its chorus are a perfect match for this weather-themed movie.
1.15 Million Kilometers of FilmOfisharu Higedan Dism
This song was chosen as the theme for the film ‘Love Me, Love Me Not.’ It’s a piece by the piano-pop band Official HIGE DANDism, included on their first album, ‘Escaparade,’ released in 2018.
A heartwarming love song that likens life with someone you love to a movie, its bright melody and vocals are uplifting.
There are probably many couples who both love this track.
It’s a happy number that leaves you smiling by the time it ends.
Grand Escape (Movie edit) feat. Toko MiuraRADWIMPS
It’s a song featured in Makoto Shinkai’s film Weathering With You.
The lyrics and composition were done by RADWIMPS’ vocalist, Yojiro Noda.
The track stays quiet for a while, but at the end, the powerful vocals by Toko Miura and the chorus seem to project the film’s worldview as it is.
The striking latter half of the song was frequently used in the film’s promotional commercials, leaving a strong impression on viewers.
One more time, one more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi
Many people might say this is the definitive song for heart-wrenching love.
It’s one of singer-songwriter Masayoshi Yamazaki’s signature tracks, released in 1997 as his fourth single.
It was chosen as the theme song for the film “Moon and Cabbage,” in which Yamazaki himself starred, and later for Makoto Shinkai’s 2007 animated film “5 Centimeters per Second.” The scenes of searching for a beloved person who’s gone are truly gut-wrenching.
It’s a timeless, soul-stirring masterpiece that I hope will be sung for generations.
dead endHoshino Gen
How about a ballad woven from nothing but a wistful piano melody and vocals? This song is by Gen Hoshino, a singer-songwriter behind numerous hits.
Created as the theme for the film “Hiraba no Tsuki,” released in November 2025, it’s a non-album single that stands in contrast to the May 2025 album “Gen.” Its stripped-down, simple arrangement is irresistible.
You can feel a kind of resolve to keep living in that place, even while carrying emotions with no outlet and thoughts that won’t fade.
It’s perfect for when you want to sink into memories of a past love.
Listen alone on a quiet night, and you’ll likely find yourself facing the precious memories in your heart.
Isn’t it a song that offers a gentle warmth, as if drawing close to an inner landscape where no exit is in sight?