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)
Until we meet againOzaki Kiyohiko
Kiyohiko Ozaki has a wide vocal range and overwhelming power, and the way he sometimes pulls the microphone away while singing is striking.
Beyond his singing voice, his impressive sideburns and mustache give him a dashing, gentlemanly look that’s mesmerizing.
Even though this song is about parting, I like its positive lyrics.
Why did I end up falling in love with you?Tōhōshinki
A gem of a ballad that captures the aching heartbreak and pure love for another, pressing on the listener’s heart.
It delicately portrays the feelings of a protagonist watching a bride and groom at their wedding, touching on the subtle emotions woven from a wish for a loved one’s happiness and lingering regret.
Released by Tohoshinki in July 2008, the song’s elegant piano-and-strings arrangement blends beautifully with the five-member harmony, earning it the No.
1 spot on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It also won an Excellent Work Award at the 50th Japan Record Awards, paving the way for the group’s first appearance on the Kohaku Uta Gassen.
A track that seeps into your heart on night drives, rainy days, or when love is weighing on your mind.
Moody Japanese Classics: Recommended Popular Songs (31–40)
Good Night BabyZa Kingutonzu
This is the song that made The King Tones famous.
It stayed in the Oricon Top 20 for 12 weeks.
In the film Yellow Elephant starring Osamu Mukai and Aoi Miyazaki, there’s a scene where a drunken old man sings this song—he’s quite a good singer, too.
Sometimes, old storiesKatō Tokiko
It’s the ending theme of the Studio Ghibli film Porco Rosso.
Tokiko Kato’s husky voice is cool and stylish.
She also sings the movie’s main theme, “Le temps des cerises,” which is a French chanson, so it has a slightly different but equally wonderful feel.
Ruby RingTerao Akira
Atsushi Terao’s uniquely nasal singing voice is sexy, and the nonchalant way he sings is incredibly cool.
His sunglasses are great, too.
“Ruby no Yubiwa” was composed by Terao himself.
The idea of giving a ruby ring, a birthstone, is brimming with a sultry vibe that hints at a mature romance.
The Scent of CyclamenFuse Akira
I’m smitten from the intro.
And on top of that, there’s Akira Fuse’s looks.
He’s known for his clear, expansive voice and powerful vocal projection.
This song was released in 1975, with lyrics and music by Kei Ogura.
His vocals back then were wonderful, but Fuse’s voice as he’s aged has gained a rugged richness that’s deeply compelling.
Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji
The song itself is great, of course, but Julie—Kenji Sawada—just oozes sex appeal.
He had legions of passionate female fans.
I’ve never seen anyone wear a hat tilted that far to the side and make it look so good.
And his singing more than matches his sexy looks—his vibrato is on point and it’s absolutely wonderful.