A collection of romance-themed songs. Let’s listen to some Japanese love songs.
If you’re currently in love or have someone special in your life, you might find yourself looking for love-themed songs when you listen to music.
In the J-POP scene, countless love songs have been released over the years, and their melodies and lyrics have moved the hearts of many listeners.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide selection of love songs you’ll want to hear right now—from timeless classics to the latest buzzworthy tracks.
We’ve chosen everything from songs overflowing with happiness to bittersweet tunes about heartbreak and unrequited love, so please find the ones that perfectly match your current mood.
Collection of love-themed songs. Let’s listen to Japanese love songs (1–10)
not yet in loveNEW!Chōkyūmei
Chokyuumei’s “Mikoi,” written specifically as the opening theme for a drama, is a love song that captures vague, unnameable emotions.
Released digitally in January 2025, it is known as the tie-in track for the Kansai TV × FOD drama “Mikoi: Kakure Bocchi-tachi.” Riding on pop piano-rock, it sings of the impulse to see someone and the wavering heart that doesn’t yet want to admit it’s love.
The confusion and jealousy at the dawn of romance are expressed with a light touch, offering comfort when you’re unsure of your feelings or afraid to use the word “like.” It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to savor the exhilaration of realizing you’re falling in love.
sugarNEW!Saucy Dog
This is a medium-tempo ballad by Saucy Dog that vividly portrays the flickers of regret and frustration that surface after missed connections or arguments with a lover.
Shinya Ishihara’s emotive vocals and the band’s sound, which gradually heats up from a subdued, narrative beginning, bring into sharp relief the feelings of cherishing someone tangled with complex emotions.
Released as a digital single in January 2021, it was later included as the closing track on the August 2021 album “Lazy Sunday.” It’s a song you should listen to when the relationship has cooled a bit and you’re unsure—“Do I still love them?”—or when you’re feeling muddled because you can’t quite apologize.
It might just help you realize the true answer deep within your heart.
Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number
If you’re starting to feel, “I want to try going out with that person…,” the song you should listen to is “Takaneno Hanako-san.” It was released in 2013 by back number, a rock band known for singing about all kinds of love stories.
Its upbeat rhythm and lively band sound really hit home.
Many people will relate to the lyrics filled with bittersweet longing.
The melody is crafted to captivate those who love music festivals and live houses, too.
Give this passionate track a listen and let it fuel the excitement of your crush.
I miss youAdo
The time when you can’t see the one you love is tough, isn’t it? What supports you during those moments is “Aitakute” (“I Miss You”).
This song was released in 2021 by the singer Ado, known for hits like “Usseewa.” It was used as an insert song in the film Kaguya-sama: Love Is War – Final.
The track features a rock sound with a dynamic arrangement.
Her soulful vocals make the lyrics, which portray aching emotions, resonate deeply.
It’s a warm rock ballad that keeps you company until you can meet the person you love again.
Walking with youNovelbright
Novelbright is a rock band behind numerous tie-in songs for dramas and commercials.
Their energetic tracks, delivered with an overwhelming vocal presence, have been drawing attention.
“Walking with you,” included on their 2018 release SKYWALK, was featured as an insert song in the drama Koi suru Shumatsu Homestay 2020 Haru (Love-Weekends Homestay 2020 Spring).
Its brisk, refreshing rock sound leaves a strong impression.
With an orthodox melodic line, it highlights Yudai Takenaka’s powerful high-toned vocals.
How about listening to this rock number that gives you the resolve to walk forward with someone important to you?
…When I Fall in LovePenthouse
Penthouse is a six-member band formed by members who met in a music club at the University of Tokyo.
They’re known for songs that fuse city pop and soul.
Their track “Koi ni Ochitara” was released in 2021.
It features a catchy band sound over a light, upbeat rhythm.
Their jazzy, soulful choral work offers a soothing touch.
The lyrics, rich with the realities of everyday life, are also part of the appeal.
If you’re sensing the spark of romance and thinking, “I can’t stop wondering about that person…,” give it a listen.
heartaimyon
A song I’d love people who are just beginning to feel the stirrings of love to listen to is “Heart.” Released in 2021 by singer-songwriter Aimyon, it was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Only Just Married” (Konin Todoke ni Han o Oshita Dake Desu ga).
The soft, airy synths that resonate through its mid-tempo arrangement are striking, and her warm, gently enveloping vocals are soothing.
It’s a love song that perfectly matches the moody vibe of a mature romance.
If your heart won’t stop racing with new-love excitement, why not relax by listening to this track?