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 (31–40)
far; distant; by farGReeeeN
It’s the theme song for the movie “ROOKIES: Graduation,” which centers on a high school baseball team.
The track is by GReeeeN and was released in 2009 as their 11th single, becoming a big hit alongside the film.
With lyrics that evoke graduation, it’s especially recommended for high school seniors.
Leaving the familiar behind to pursue your goals—the song captures that bittersweet feeling.
At the same time, it’s also an uplifting anthem that encourages you to move forward and gives you the strength to live.
Last sceneikimonogakari
Released in 2016, this song was written specifically as the theme for the film Your Lie in April, starring Kento Yamazaki and Suzu Hirose.
The lyrics and composition for this piece were done by the band’s leader, Mizuno, with arrangement by Masanori Shimada.
It was released as a double A-side single along with Bokura no Yume.
Ghost in the FlowersYorushika
This song was chosen as the theme for the anime film “A Whisker Away.” It’s by the band Yorushika, formed by Vocaloid producer n-buna and singer suis.
The track is included on their third album, “Plagiarism,” released in 2020.
It’s a ballad centered on a band sound, with a beautifully resonant piano tone that leaves a strong impression.
The highly narrative lyrics and vocals match the musical arrangement so well that you’ll feel like crying by the time it ends.
Be sure to take your time and immerse yourself in the world of the song.
A Little Love SongMONGOL800
MONGOL800’s signature song “Chiisana Koi no Uta” (“A Little Love Song”).
Released in 2001, it’s one of the tracks on the smash-hit album MESSAGE and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at live shows and festivals.
It’s also well known for ranking first in the men’s category of Heisei-era karaoke songs.
The song became a hot topic again when a band featured in the film adapted from it, Chiisana Koi no Uta, performed it as the movie’s theme song.
Beloved across generations, it has been covered by numerous artists.
FLASHPerfume
Why does it feel so warm despite being electronic? This is a track by Perfume, a technopop unit active internationally.
It’s included on their fifth album, COSMIC EXPLORER, released in 2016.
The song was the theme for the film Chihayafuru, which centers on competitive karuta.
While weaving the story’s content into the lyrics, it still retains that quintessential Perfume finish—classic Yasutaka Nakata sound.
It’s an exhilarating electronic tune with meticulous production that never gets old.
Theme and insert songs from Japanese films: Famous and popular pieces in Japanese movie music (41–50)
Highwaykururi
This is Quruli’s 12th single, released in 2003.
It was selected as the theme song for the film Josee, the Tiger and the Fish.
Quruli also handled the soundtrack for the film.
The promotional video features Satoshi Tsumabuki, evoking the film.
Love SomebodyOda Yūji
It’s the 13th single, released in 1997.
It was also chosen as the theme song for the film series “Bayside Shakedown: The Movie” starring Yuji Oda.
Since it was used starting from the TV drama, it’s become natural to associate this song with “Bayside Shakedown.”