A collection of romance-themed songs. Let’s listen to some Japanese love songs.

Something-or-other Meteor ShowerSHO-SENSEI!!

SHO-SENSEI!! “Nantoka Meteor Shower” Official Music Video

SHO-SENSEI!! is known for a style that blends hip-hop and rock.

His standout summer track is “Nantoka Ryūseigun” (“Something Meteor Shower”).

The lyrics depict a heartbroken man watching a meteor shower while reminiscing about the past.

The contrast between the beautiful scenic descriptions and his wistful feelings is truly emo.

Another draw is the sound: the first half leans heavily into hip-hop, while the latter half leans more into rock.

It leaves you with the satisfying feeling of having listened to two songs in one.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

When the magic wears offSaucy Dog

Saucy Dog “When the Magic Wears Off” Music Video

The title of this song, which depicts not only the happy times spent together but also the breakup that follows, is “When the Magic Wears Off.” The singer is Saucy Dog, who has captivated listeners with numerous love songs to date.

One of their charms is the skillful way they paint relatable stories and scenes, and that appeal is on full display in this track.

Many people will surely relate to a song that describes the blissful time of dating as being “under a spell.” If you listen while overlaying it with your own experiences, its bittersweetness will surely strike a chord.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Honne and tatemaeSexy Zone

Sexy Zone “Honne and Tatemae” (YouTube Ver.)

“Honne to Tatemae,” chosen as the theme song for the drama Usokon, was released by the idol group Sexy Zone in 2023, with lyrics and composition by Ringo Sheena.

It’s a song that portrays a mature love story, matching the drama’s narrative.

The jazz-based sound combined with their electronic-tinged vocals creates a one-of-a-kind world.

It’s a romantic dance number that captures emotions burdened by secrets that can’t be shared with anyone.

Be sure to listen along with the music video, where you can enjoy their many different expressions.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

Unreachable love songTani Yuuki

Unreachable love song – Tani Yuuki (Official Lyric Video)

Despite being said to have started his career in 2020, his YouTube subscriber count is already on the verge of reaching 500,000.

With nearly 50 releases including MVs and digital-only singles, I feel that Tani Yuuki is one of the artists riding the biggest wave right now.

Here’s one of Tani’s pop yet somehow bittersweet tracks, “Unreachable love song.” Rather than a full-on tearjerker, a “tour of places filled with memories” might pair better with the refreshing words of heartbreak.

If you want to shed tears you don’t want others to see, this song is highly recommended.

Your happinessUru

[Official] Uru "Kimi no Shiawase wo"

Singer-songwriter Uru, whose rich yet translucent voice has captivated fans since before her major-label debut.

Her eighth digital-only single, “Kimi no Shiawase o” (“Your Happiness”), lingers in the ear with its airy ensemble and sentimental melody.

The lyrics, depicting unrequited love, will likely resonate with anyone who has shared that experience and its aching tenderness.

It’s a dramatic ballad whose beautiful sound stirs the heart.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Such a bitter storyVaundy

Such a Bitter Story / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

A song in which Vaundy passionately sings about the bittersweet experiences of love and the enduring tenderness that remains.

It was written as the theme song for ABEMA’s dating show “Hanataba to Ookami-chan ni wa Damasarenai” (Don’t Be Fooled by the Wolf-chan: Bouquet).

The nuanced emotional shifts—feelings that aren’t purely sweet—and the idea that love doesn’t go smoothly are points it shares with the show.

With a sound that emphasizes piano and bass, the strong rhythm seems to express the movement of emotions.

Overall, love is portrayed with a calm atmosphere, and you can also feel the desire to cherish one’s own heart.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

kappamaki

Report a problem

On the Breeze of LoveVaundy

On the Breeze of Love Sickness / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

A sweet love story that begins with a gentle breeze drifting into everyday life through the window.

Vaundy’s sound, which modernizes elements of 1990s J-pop, beautifully captures both the exhilaration and the bittersweetness of falling in love.

Within the small moments of daily life, the feelings of two people who care for each other are woven with care, revealing the subtle nuances unique to a mature romance throughout.

Released in March 2022, the song was written as the theme for an ABEMA romance reality show and was later included on the album “replica.” The music video, featuring Ryo Narita and Aju Makita, also garnered attention.

It’s a track best enjoyed on a quiet night with someone special, letting a calm feeling wash over you.