[Piano × J-POP] Tearjerker! A Selection of Moving/Touching Songs

Things that have formShibasaki Kou

Katachi Aru Mono for Piano / Kou Shibasaki

As the theme song for the drama Sekai no Chushin de, Ai wo Sakebu starring Takayuki Yamada and Haruka Ayase, Katachi Aru Mono beautifully enhanced the show’s moving scenes.

Many people likely still remember the poignant lyrics sung in Kou Shibasaki’s clear, earnest voice and the heart-wrenching melody that tightens the chest.

Its world of both fragility and strength pairs perfectly with the piano, which can express a wide range through changes in tone color.

Try playing while imagining timbres that match the lyrics—like a vanishingly soft pianissimo or a fortissimo that conveys strong resolve—and explore your own interpretations.

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One more time, One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi

One more time, One more chance – 5 Centimeters Per Second

A signature song by Masayoshi Yamazaki that portrays the poignant sense of loss in endlessly searching for someone who is gone.

Released in January 1997, it became known as the theme song for the film he starred in, “The Moon and a Cabbage,” and enjoyed long-running success with over 300,000 copies sold.

In 2007, it was used again as the theme song for Makoto Shinkai’s animated film “5 Centimeters per Second,” bringing it widespread recognition among younger audiences.

With a simple arrangement centered on acoustic guitar arpeggios and piano, the song delicately weaves feelings of lingering attachment and regret.

Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics pair beautifully with the piano’s delicate timbre.

Recommended for those who want to perform it quietly on a calm night while thinking of someone dear.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

[Piano] Tried playing “Lilac” [Boukyaku Battery OP]

This song delicately portrays the fleeting yet beautiful light and shadow of youth.

Memories, loneliness, anxiety, and hope are interwoven as the days pass, expressed through an urban sound.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery,” it harmonizes Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s signature refreshing melodies with profound lyrics.

At the 66th Japan Record Awards in 2024, it won the Grand Prize.

Centered on the complex emotions everyone experiences during their youth and on how we confront ourselves, the song resonates deeply.

Embracing the hearts of those who strive to move forward despite their anxieties, it has garnered support from a wide range of generations.

rainbowSuda Masaki

Niji (Masaki Suda) / [Piano Duet Gorgeous Arrangement] / Theme song of the movie “STAND BY ME Doraemon 2” / SOUND24

Masaki Suda’s “Niji” sings of straightforward love for someone special.

Many of you may remember it as the theme song for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2.

Overflowing with tenderness, the piece sounds wonderful as a piano solo, but playing it as a duet adds an even warmer, more embracing feel.

Given the meaning of the lyrics, it’s perfect to perform with someone you’re close to—so try enjoying a duet with family, friends, or a romantic partner.

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A melody instead of a bouquetShimizu Shota

[Sheet Music] “Instead of a Bouquet, a Melody” by Shota Shimizu – Piano Sheet Music

Beginning with a quiet piano melody, this song moved listeners as the theme for NHK’s Drama 10 “Designer Baby.” It is a warm love song filled with the wish to deliver feelings for a beloved person not as a bouquet of flowers, but in the form of a melody.

The interplay of piano and gentle vocals tenderly conveys the strength of longing for the other and the resolve to protect them.

The desire to express heartfelt love through music, and the pure emotion of seeking one’s sense of purpose in a lover’s affection, resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a perfect piece for those who wish to convey their feelings to someone special not only through words, but through music.

The Door to TomorrowI WiSH

Door to Tomorrow - Piano - I WiSH - TV show 'Ainori' theme song

Known as a ballad with an impressive piano timbre, this song drew attention in February 2003 as the theme for Fuji TV’s romance variety show Ainori.

It features a gentle atmosphere crafted by I WiSH’s clear, transparent vocals intricately woven with the piano’s melody.

The piece delicately depicts the pure feelings of a first love budding under the summer sun and the way one’s affection for another gradually grows.

From the moment of falling in love to hopes for the future, the lyrics carefully trace the subtleties of the heart in a way that resonates universally.

With its calm, warm melody and deeply moving lyrics in perfect harmony, this track is recommended for anyone who wants to savor the poignancy and joy of love or is seeking tender, heartwarming music.

YELLikimonogakari

[Street Piano] Tried playing “YELL” by Ikimonogakari by Yomii

Although it’s a pop number that begins with a piano intro, it leaves a lingering, heartrending impression that makes you want to listen again and again.

It gently portrays the feelings of boys and girls who, while searching for who they are and sometimes feeling anxious or uncertain, still try to face forward and move ahead.

Released in September 2009, it became widely familiar as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high school division.

This work carries a message that finds not only the sorrow of parting in the word “sayonara,” but also the courage and hope to take a new step forward.

Wrapped in fresh sensitivity and words of warm encouragement, the song will quietly give a push to everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.