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Lovely film music

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!

Theme and insert songs from Japanese films: Famous and popular pieces in Japanese movie music (41–50)

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.

Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Classic and popular pieces of Japanese movie music (51–60)

SovietGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Sobito (theme song of the film “Kiseki: Sobito of That Day”)
SovietGReeeeN

This is a song written specifically for the 2017 film “Kiseki: Ano Hi no Sobito,” starring Masaki Suda and Tori Matsuzaka.

The movie portrays the origins of the music group GReeeeN, and uses songs they had previously released as insert tracks.

The four actors who played the members also made their debut as the unit Green Boys.

Footsteps ~ Be StrongMr.Children

Mr.Children “Footsteps ~Be Strong” Music Video (Short ver.)
Footsteps ~ Be StrongMr.Children

This song was written as the theme for the Fuji TV drama and the Toho-distributed film Nobunaga Concerto.

It is Mr.Children’s first self-produced work and is regarded as a track that symbolizes the “new Mr.Children.” Included on the single released in November 2014, its string arrangement was handled by Kazutoshi Sakurai and U-dai Shike.

Carrying an uplifting message and powerful energy, the song conveys that the future we dream of isn’t so far away and encourages the courage to take a first step.

As a power song that stands beside all who take on challenges in their daily lives, it has moved the hearts of many.

Suzume feat. ToakaRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Suzume feat. Toaka [Official Lyric Video]
Suzume feat. ToakaRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS’s “Suzume feat.

Toaka,” chosen as the theme song for director Makoto Shinkai’s smash-hit anime film “Suzume,” features vocals by Toaka, who was discovered by RADWIMPS and Shinkai after posting a video on TikTok.

The song begins with a mysterious atmosphere, and Toaka’s clear, translucent voice draws you in more and more.

It’s a track that makes you reflect on the meaning of living, and the preciousness of living together with someone else.

Listen to it while feeling the message portrayed in the film.

Q&AHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Q & A (Theme Song of the Film “The Big Bee”) - Short Ver.-
Q&AHata Motohiro

This piece was written as the theme song for the 2015 film “The Big Bee,” directed by Yukihiko Tsutsumi and starring Yosuke Eguchi.

Unlike his previous film theme songs, it features an upbeat rock sound and marked a departure from Hata’s earlier image.

Endless SkyHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata “Endless Sky” Music Video (Sei’s Youth version)
Endless SkyHata Motohiro

It was written as the theme song for the 2016 film Satoshi: A Move for Tomorrow, starring Kenichi Matsuyama.

The CD containing this song was released as a double A-side single, and later, a digital-only album featuring only Hata’s film theme songs was also released.

The Day the Rainbow DisappearedHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / The Day the Rainbow Disappeared (Short Ver.)
The Day the Rainbow DisappearedHata Motohiro

Released in June 2008 as the ending theme for the film “Tsukiji Uogashi Sandaime,” starring Takao Osawa and released the same year.

This film led Motohiro Hata to become acquainted with Takao Osawa; he received a guitar as a gift from him, and they have also appeared at events together.