[Ballads That Suit the Sea] A handpicked selection of fleetingly beautiful masterpieces perfect for summer listening!
When thinking of songs to listen to at the beach, many people probably imagine lively, upbeat tracks.
But the ocean suits not only sparkly, high-energy tunes—it also pairs beautifully with tender ballads.
In this article, we introduce Japanese ballad songs that go well with the sea.
From tracks that match the romantic ocean scenery at sunset or under the starry night sky, to gentle songs that let you reflect as you gaze at the waves, we’ve picked a wide range.
Enjoy the vast seascape together with your favorite ballad songs!
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[Ballads That Suit the Sea] A handpicked selection of fleetingly beautiful masterpieces perfect for summer listening! (31–40)
Voice of the Seaurashima tarou
This is a song performed by Urashima Taro—known as Ura-chan—played by Kenta Kiritani, who gained popularity in the au Santaro commercial series.
It was released digitally in 2015, with composition by Masaru Shimabukuro of BEGIN, the popular band from Okinawa.
The song itself has been highly acclaimed, winning the Excellence Award at the 58th Japan Record Awards.
Many listeners were likely moved by Kenta Kiritani’s own shamisen-backed vocal performance, the timbre of the shamisen, his husky voice, and the straightforward lyrics.
Flower of the sanshinBEGIN
A beloved classic by BEGIN, where the gentle tone of the Okinawan traditional instrument, the sanshin, softly touches the heartstrings.
Sparked by a keepsake from a grandfather one had nearly forgotten, the lyrics vividly revive warm family memories and feelings for one’s hometown, leaving a deeply nostalgic impression.
Released in October 2006, this song has remained in many people’s hearts as an insert song for the film “Tears for You” (Nada Sōsō).
Its bittersweet yet powerful melody deepens the emotions we hold for those dear to us.
For those working hard far from home, it will surely bring their family’s faces to mind.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to spend some heartwarming time.
sea glassSaucy Dog
This work captivates with its emotional atmosphere that conjures vivid scenes of summer.
Listen by the seaside, and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a beautiful moment from a film.
The lyrics, delicately weaving tales of bittersweet love and the fleeting sparkle of youth, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in July 2020, the song was also included on Saucy Dog’s mini-album “Take Me.” A music video produced in collaboration with a Honda project was also released, vividly portraying the radiance of youth.
It’s a highly recommended track to use as background music when you want to relax by the ocean or get lost in thought at dusk.
Scooping the Sea (House ver.)Hoshino Gen
This is a song by Gen Hoshino with an irresistible, gently floating feel.
A house arrangement, different in character from the original, leads you to scenes of a summer seaside.
The lyrics, which depict fleeting memories like water slipping through your fingers and wavering emotions, overlap with the sophisticated sound to create something achingly beautiful.
The track is included on the single “Crazy Crazy / Sakura no Mori,” released in June 2014.
A studio live performance is also featured as a bonus video on the first-press edition of the album “POP VIRUS,” making it a valuable record for fans.
Why not give it a listen while cooling off by the shore lost in thought, or when you want to relax with a touch of sentiment at summer’s end? It’s sure to become one of your favorite seaside songs.
Midsummer MomentRYUSENKEI
A mellow sound that evokes summer memories, where the warm timbre of the Rhodes piano intertwines exquisitely with Sincere’s clear, transparent vocals.
Released as a single in May 2025, it’s packed with the allure of the reborn RYUSENKEI by Kunimondo Takiguchi and Sincere.
Available in two formats—digital and a strictly limited 7-inch vinyl—the vinyl’s B-side features the 2025 remix of “Time Traveler.” Perfect for a seaside drive or a slow, laid-back summer evening.
[Ballads That Suit the Sea] A handpicked selection of fragile, beautiful masterpieces perfect for summer listening! (41–50)
Island SongZa Buumu
THE BOOM is a four-piece rock band whose name carries a paradoxical meaning: a desire to always remain true to their own music, unshaken by trends.
Did you know that their single “Shima Uta,” now synonymous with the band, is actually a song that recounts the tragedy of war and expresses a wish for peace? Its message—that prayers should cross the sea and be heard—feels indispensable even today, in a world where conflict never ceases.
With melodies and sounds that evoke Ryukyuan scales and Okinawan music, this million-selling hit—known by everyone—moves the heart.
I went to the sea.Saitō Kazuyoshi
Kazuyoshi Saito shot to prominence when his 2011 release “Yasashiku Naritai” became a massive hit.
“Umi ni Dekaketa” (“Went Out to the Sea”), included on his seventh album “COLD TUBE” released in 2000, is an acoustic tune featuring lyrics that beautifully portray the sea.
His emotional vocals pair exquisitely with the clear sound of the acoustic guitar, creating a strange sensation that makes you feel as if you’re standing right on the shoreline just by listening.
