[Night Songs] Classic masterpieces themed around the night. J-POP you’ll want to listen to at nighttime.
The unique atmosphere of nighttime—something you don’t get in the morning or afternoon—somehow evokes a touch of wistfulness and loneliness, doesn’t it?
In this article, we’ll introduce classic and popular songs themed around “night,” perfect for those hours.
We’ve gathered tracks ideal for quiet nights, such as “songs you want to listen to alone at night” and “songs that evoke beautiful nighttime scenery.”
If you’re looking for music that matches night views for an evening walk, drive, or run, be sure to check these out.
From ballads that suit a relaxed night to dance tunes that make you want to move, we’ve got you covered—there’s sure to be a track you’ll want to play.
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[Song of the Night] Masterpieces themed around the night. J-POP to listen to at nighttime (81–90)
Nocturne Under the MoonMALICE MIZER
This is “Gekka no Yasoukyoku” by the visual kei band MALICE MIZER, which was active in the ’90s.
They were one of the so-called Four Heavenly Kings of visual kei.
For a time, Gackt was also a member, and the band enjoyed a charismatic level of popularity back then.
Their costumes themed around medieval Europe are striking.
The mysterious tone of the song suits their vibe very well.
Stars of the short nightshallm
Shallm is a band that began as a project by 18-year-old vocalist Lia.
Their second digital single, “Tanmiyo no Hoshi” (Stars of the Short Night), features a lyrical ensemble where delicate piano and powerful band sounds meld together.
The lyrics, which evoke the image of looking up at the starry sky while reflecting on memories, pierce the heart alongside a cry-like vocal delivery.
It’s a nostalgic number with a sentimental melody that lingers in the ear, imbued with a sense of wistful melancholy.
Wonderlandiri
A masterpiece depicting the heart of someone striving to find light within deep darkness has arrived from iri.
Set to a luscious melody steeped in R&B and soul, it tenderly envelops the emptiness and loneliness of everyday life while powerfully singing of the will to move toward the light.
Included on the album “Private,” this track has continued to soothe countless listeners since its release in March 2023.
It’s a warm song that keeps you company on late-night drives or in moments when you want to cherish time alone.
iri’s gentle yet resolute voice is sure to resonate deeply in the hearts of those who listen.
Until your night breaks (into dawn)Kasamura Tōta
A song by Tōta Kasamura that begins by questioning a broken or misguided world.
It’s a ballad notable for its gentle, delicate piano melody and its wistful sound arrangement.
The lyrics portray the protagonist’s strong determination to overcome parting from a loved one, lost time, and the pain of that loss.
Included on the February 2021 album How to Become a Wonderful Adult, this track is also known as a counterpart to “Lily of the Endless Night.” Accompanied by a beautiful melody like waiting for dawn, it tenderly weaves a state of mind that seeks a glimmer of hope even amid deep despair—a song that stays close to you in dark times.
AliensKirinji
It’s a captivating song that pairs an urban melody resonating like it nestles into the stillness of night with poetic depictions of suburban scenery.
Using the word “alien” to express a sense of social alienation, it delicately weaves the pure love of two lonely people.
Released as a single by Kirinji in October 2000 and later included on the album “3,” the song was featured in a LINE Mobile commercial in 2017 and as an insert song in an NHK BS Premium drama in 2018, winning the hearts of many.
It’s a track that lingers—one that accompanies late-night drives or unhurried moments in a bar lounge, soaking into the hearts of adults.