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: Famous and popular pieces in Japanese movie music (41–50)
Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi
The theme song of the animated film Children of the Sea, for which Mana Ashida provided a voice role.
It’s a beautiful track with a somewhat mysterious atmosphere that evokes the world within the vast, blue ocean.
Kenshi Yonezu’s falsetto in the chorus resonates pleasantly.
It’s truly a song made for this film, conveying the ocean’s vitality that at times gently stays by your side and at others pulls you down into its depths.
migratory bird[Alexandros]
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It’s the theme song for the film Akegarasu, starring Masaki Suda.
Akegarasu was first staged in 2011 and again in 2015.
It’s an exhilarating number that vividly conjures the image of a bird—featured in both the film’s title and the song’s title—spreading its wings wide and taking flight.
The high notes delivered by vocalist Yohei Kawakami in the chorus add a bright, uplifting feel.
Magic Wordssupittsu
This is Spitz’s 31st single, released in 2006.
It was used as the theme song for the film Honey and Clover.
Many Spitz songs were featured in the TV anime version, and thanks to that connection, they wrote a brand-new theme song for this live-action adaptation.
Persecution of the masses (1172) / LandingSagisu Shirō
Beginning with an ominous piano melody, layered with dissonant strings and a solemn male chorus, this piece superbly captures the world of Shin Godzilla.
The original Godzilla theme is woven in, resulting in an excellent arrangement that bridges the hearts of longtime and new fans alike.
It’s a track that showcases Shiro Sagisu’s talent, used in the film released in July 2016.
It was also featured in the movie’s trailer and is beloved by fans as the de facto main theme.
Recommended when you want to heighten anticipation for an epic story or savor a tense atmosphere.
It’s a perfect song for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the world of Godzilla.
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.
User ManualNishino Kana
It’s Kana Nishino’s 27th single, released in 2015.
It was used as the theme song for the film “No Longer Heroine.” The lyrics explain how a woman wants to be treated by her boyfriend; they list a bunch of things that would make most women nod along in agreement, but from a man’s perspective they can seem like a handful.
The result is a song that clearly highlights differences between men and women.
It’s all too muchYUI
Singer-songwriter YUI, whose debut-era vocals were dubbed the “angelic koto tone,” has continued to captivate fans.
Her 14th single, “It’s all too much,” released as a double A-side with “Never say die,” was chosen as the theme song for the film Kaiji: The Ultimate Gambler.
The lyrics, which tie in with the film’s story, evoke an image of moving forward precisely because one believes in miracles.
It’s a cool pop tune where the delicate timbre of the acoustic guitar and its contrast with the band sound create a thrilling atmosphere.
