[J-Pop] A Collection of Unrequited Love Songs That Stay Close to Your Heart

motion sickness from proximitywanuka

Yori Yoi / Wanuqa [Music Video]

A song by Wanuka that portrays the protagonist’s wavering emotions as they try to confess their feelings to someone they like, borrowing courage from a tipsy buzz yet unable to be completely honest.

Included on the album Aonisei, the track has sparked a major response since its February 2021 release, especially on social media, and has been widely embraced for its uniquely Japanese-flavored melody and relatable lyrics.

The image of a pleasantly drunk protagonist swaying between the desire to get closer and the frustration of not being able to express those feelings is the very essence of a romantic experience everyone’s had.

It’s a heartfelt recommendation for anyone who feels the urge to have someone all to themselves yet struggles to put those feelings into words.

evergreenŌhashi Chippoke

Ohashi Chippoke “Evergreen” Music Video

A song that sings of unwavering love warmly envelops the hearts of its listeners.

Its light, breezy melody and lyrics filled with deep affection blend beautifully, resonating with many people.

Included on the mini-album “you,” released in October 2021, it became a massive hit with over 100 million streams.

You can feel Ohashi Chippoke’s intention to express pure love throughout the entire track.

Brimming with tenderness toward a lover and a wish for happiness that lasts forever, this piece is perfect not only for those with unrequited feelings but also for anyone looking to deepen their bond with someone special.

flower fortune-tellingShimizu Miisa

MIISA Shimizu – Hanauarai (Flower Fortune-telling)

This is an unrequited love song that delicately portrays fleeting feelings with a clear, translucent vocal.

Released in April 2025 as the opening theme for the drama “Kiri-o Fan Club,” the track features Miisha Shimizu’s expressive vocals, beautifully harmonizing with the poignant melody line.

The sound arrangement, infused with elements of funk music, also leaves a strong impression.

It’s a song that stays close to the pains and anxieties of love, so give it a listen when you’re dealing with those feelings.

aloeFunatsu Mahiro

Masato Funatsu “Aloe” Official Music Video – Ending Theme Song for the drama ‘By the Irori at Ms. Alice’s House’

This is a song by Masato Funatsu, woven with delicate words and melody, slated for release in January 2025.

It tenderly sings of the frustrating emotions born from a relationship that’s more than friends but not quite lovers—hearts so close, yet unable to draw nearer—wrapped in a gentle vocal delivery.

Also selected as the ending theme for the drama “Alice-san’s Irori Hearth,” the track harmonizes beautifully with the show’s warm portrayal of human relationships.

Love takes many forms, and this song resonates with listeners who find their hearts wavering in ambiguous relationships, offering comfort and empathy to many.

love at first sightFunatsu Mahiro

Masato Funatsu “Love at First Sight” Official Music Video

This is a song by Masato Funatsu that portrays a sweet, bittersweet feeling of love.

It sings, over a catchy melody, about pure emotions that begin the moment of love at first sight.

From the instant you first see them, your heart won’t stop racing and everything about that person becomes precious—many listeners will relate to that exhilarating start of a romance.

Released in May 2024, the song became a massive hit, surpassing 300 million views thanks to its spread on TikTok.

It’s the perfect track when you want to boost your motivation for love.

Give it a listen—and maybe find the courage to talk to that special someone.

EsperanzaNishino Kana

Kana Nishino “Esperanza” MV Full

A song by Kana Nishino that expresses the bittersweet feelings of a woman’s unrequited love through passionate Latin sounds.

Even though she knows the person she likes already has a partner, the woman’s complex emotions still resonate deeply.

The sound of Spanish guitar and the powerful vocals beautifully fuse heartache with a forward-looking spirit.

Released in May 2011, it was used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Sukkiri!!” and was included on the album “Thank you, Love.” It won the Excellence Award at the 53rd Japan Record Awards.

This is a song that stands by women troubled by unrequited love and gives them the courage to keep looking ahead without giving up.

Feeling in loveNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Feelings of Love' MV Full

A love song by Kana Nishino that portrays the struggles of two people who are more than friends but not quite lovers.

The secret feelings harbored for a longtime best friend are expressed with heartrending delicacy.

Even when the mind has given up, the heart can’t help but hold onto a faint hope—an emotion anyone who’s experienced unrequited love can relate to.

Featured on the album “with LOVE,” this track was released in November 2014 and captured the hearts of many listeners.

It’s a must-listen for anyone wavering between friendship and romance.