Moody Japanese classics: recommended popular songs
I’ve put together a playlist of moody Japanese songs—popular hits, timeless classics, and hidden gems—perfect for twilight or nighttime, when you want to savor some grown-up time.
It’s great for relaxing alone, or for listening quietly with your spouse, partner, or someone special.
Enjoy a wonderful time.
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Moody Japanese classics: Recommended popular songs (21–30)
So sad I can’t bear itZa Fōku Kurusedāzu
With its incredibly gentle singing voice and melody, it almost brings me to tears when I listen.
When something sad happens, I find myself humming it without thinking.
After singing it, I feel as if my heart has been cleansed.
It seems important to say “I’m sad” when you’re feeling sad.
I also recommend the version sung by Mikako Tabe in the film Miss Granny; it’s really good.
Blue Light Yokohamaishida ayumi
Whenever I go to Yokohama, this one song always comes to mind.
I can picture the beautiful night view of the city.
Ayumi Ishida is also active as an actress.
Watching videos from when the song was released, her doll-like cuteness makes my heart skip a beat.
Midnight PretendersAran Tomoko
A city pop classic by Tomoko Aran that gained global reappraisal after being sampled by The Weeknd.
As a founding member of Being, Aran weaves delicate lyrics that meld exquisitely with a melody crafted by Tetsuro Oda.
The gently drifting synthesizers and smooth, subdued bass line evoke both the glitter of the city at night and the loneliness that lurks beneath it.
Though the lovers know it’s a “deceptive affair,” a series of secret trysts, they surrender themselves to those fleeting moments—an unstable passion that tightens the listener’s chest.
It’s a timeless track whose undimmed brilliance makes its enduring love easy to understand.
moonlightmoumoon
This is a song that colors autumn nights with the gentle, sunlit sound of the music duo moumoon.
YUKA’s clear, translucent vocals and the delicate, guitar-centered ensemble crafted by MASAKI are especially striking.
The track seems to portray a tender yet bittersweet feeling of thinking about someone precious under the moonlight.
Its lyrics, together with the dreamy arrangement, gently envelop the listener’s heart.
Released as a single in November 2010, it was also featured in the AEON “Full Moon Rosé” commercial.
The song was later included on the acclaimed album “15 Doors.” It’s sure to keep you company during quiet, contemplative autumn evenings.
KanadeSukima Suichi
A heartwarming ballad that begins with piano tones shining under a soft glow.
Sung with a clear, emotive voice, it portrays the radiance of a world transformed by partings and new encounters—one of Sukima Switch’s quintessential masterpieces.
Released in March 2004, the song became a long-running hit over 38 weeks.
It was featured as an insert song in the film “Rough” and served as the theme for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsu Uta,” continuing to resonate with many listeners.
Included on the albums “Natsugumo Noise,” “Greatest Hits,” and “DOUBLES BEST,” its charm deepens with time.
Perfect for those moments when you want to gaze at the night view in a lounge and reminisce about memories with someone special.
Precious LoveEXILE ATSUSHI
With a warm, translucent voice, EXILE ATSUSHI pens a wedding song themed around love and bonds.
Gently singing of the importance of affection felt in days walked together and vows to the future, this work carefully portrays the delicate emotions of a romance born in everyday life transforming into eternal love.
Released as a single in October 2014, it was featured in a commercial for the wedding magazine Zexy and earned the Best Vocal Performance at the 56th Japan Record Awards that same year.
It was subsequently included on the album Love Ballade, captivating listeners across a wide audience.
Whether for a moody evening spent savoring a drink while feeling the bond with someone special, or as wedding background music, it will surely stay close to your heart.
Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu
It’s a hit song by Kyu Sakamoto from 1963.
The lyrics were written by Rokusu Kei, and many people have covered it.
Listening to this song makes me feel gently watched over by Kyu Sakamoto from the sky.
It’s definitely a piece to enjoy quietly on a night when the stars are beautiful.