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

On the Day of DepartureKawashima Ai

On the Day of Departure - Piano - Ai Kawashima (Graduation Song)

This is a luscious piano ballad by Ai Kawashima, known for her translucent singing voice.

Released in February 2006, the song delicately depicts the feelings of those facing graduation, with memories of classrooms where cherry blossoms flutter and days spent in the schoolyard.

Accompanied by a striking piano melody, it gently sings of gratitude for days gone by and hope for the future.

The story unfolds with the passage of time, beautifully expressing universal nuances of the heart—such as the sorrow of parting and the anticipation of meeting again.

Frequently sung at school graduation ceremonies, this work warmly supports those taking a new step forward and is widely cherished as a song that stands beside you at life’s milestones.

It’s a perfect track for anyone wishing to greet a new beginning with a fresh spirit or to look back on precious memories.

Racing into the NightYOASOBI

Played “Racing into the Night (Yoru ni Kakeru)” in full [Piano]

YOASOBI’s second unforgettable song is a richly narrative piece where the brilliance and bittersweetness of youth resonate.

Centered on themes of life and death, love and loneliness, it captivates with a compelling contrast between its light, buoyant melody and deeply meaningful message.

In the chorus, a driving rhythm pairs with an overwhelming desire to save a loved one, striking listeners straight in the heart.

Topping the Oricon Weekly Combined Singles Chart in June 2020 and performed at that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, the work blends pop appeal with literary depth.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to immerse themselves in a story world, and for listeners who enjoy both rhythmic compositions and profound lyrics.

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki

[Piano] Tegami ~ Haikei, Jugo no Kimi e ~ / with sheet music / Angela Aki / I tried playing it / Piano / CANACANA

An inspiring ballad that combines delicate piano tones with a powerful message.

Structured as if facing your 15-year-old adolescent self, the dialogue between your past and present resonates deeply.

The simple yet expressive piano melody beautifully conveys the lyrical worldview, and the piece became beloved as the required song for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition’s junior high school division.

Brimming with courage and hope to listen to your inner voice and overcome any hardship, this work is recommended for those seeking their own path or wishing to confront their past selves.

Its warm timbre, gently embracing the journey of growth through difficult times, offers solace to every listener.

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

Known for his surf music roots, soothing melodies, and positive lyrics, Dai Hirai delivers a ballad perfectly suited for graduation season.

Though simply arranged with just piano and strings, the song richly expresses memories of youth and the emotions of a new departure.

Released digitally in February 2022, it appeared as the 18th installment of the “Sunday Goods” project, which drops a new song every three weeks.

Its crystalline piano tone is especially striking, making it a great recommendation for those reflecting on graduation or the start of a new chapter.

Why not listen quietly on a gentle spring day as you look back on memories with friends?

Cherry Blossom MoonSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 'Sakuzuki'

Released in February 2023, this track is Sakurazaka46’s fifth single.

It’s a song that portrays the poignant feelings of farewell experienced by students on the verge of graduation.

Using cherry blossoms as a motif, the lyrics impressively layer the changing seasons with shifts in emotion.

The clear tone of the piano evokes petals fluttering in the wind.

The ticking clock at the beginning symbolizes the passage of time.

Carried by a delicate melody, the inexpressible emotions of a faint first love come through.

It’s perfect for the graduation season—for those holding thoughts of parting with friends and hopes for the future.

Also recommended for solo accompaniment and choral performances.

broad daylightKing Gnu

I tried playing “Hakujitsu” on the piano

The song written as the theme for the Nippon TV Saturday drama “Innocence: False Accusation Lawyer” is marked by a delicate piano arrangement characteristic of King Gnu.

Released digitally in February 2019, the track portrays, alongside a beautiful melody, the frailty that leads people to hurt others unconsciously, regret over past mistakes, and a strong will to move forward.

The monochrome music video, while simple, powerfully conveys the song’s world through the band’s performance scenes.

The quietly comforting piano tones and a melody that evokes hope amid poignancy are sure to move music fans seeking a deeply affecting experience.

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sheet Music: “Kanade” by Sukima Switch – Advanced Piano Score

It’s a masterpiece whose gentle yet heartrending emotion resonates from the very first piano intro.

It conveys the desire to express bonds with loved ones through music, transcending physical distance and the passage of time.

Featured as an insert song in the film “Rough” and as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsu Uta,” it captured the hearts of many.

The serene piano melody and the richly expressive vocals blend in perfect balance, and since its release in March 2004, it became a long-running hit, charting on Oricon for 38 weeks.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to cherish it as a song of memories, or to express feelings for someone special through music.