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

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.

Time-Limited Unrequited LoveNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Time-Limited Unrequited Love'

A gentle, coming-of-age love song that tenderly embraces the fragility of unrequited feelings.

It’s an original track by the 6th generation members, included on Nogizaka46’s 38th single “Navel Orange,” released in March 2025.

The scenes painted by Yasushi Akimoto’s spun lyrics and the sound crafted by 3grass and Yuta Asao feel like a moment from a film.

If you’re about to graduate and can’t find the courage to confess to the one you like, this song might give you the push you need.

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.

Ambiguous BlueKawasaki Takaya

Takaya Kawasaki - Ambiguous Blue [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A heart-stirring love song that portrays jealousy born from lovesickness and feelings that can’t be grasped.

Its simple yet striking piano and acoustic guitar melodies further highlight the frustration of a hesitant heart.

As the affection that grows with getting to know someone more deeply intertwines with aching emotions, Takaya Kawasaki’s gentle voice weaves them together with care.

Chosen as the theme song for the MBS drama “Fukushū Kareshi: Deki-Ai Shachō no Kao ni wa Ura ga Aru” (“Revenge Boyfriend: The Doting CEO Has a Hidden Side”), this track speaks to anyone in love who wants to know more about their partner yet feels anxious when they know too much.

Recommended for those struggling with the delicate distance in a relationship.

NameHabureddāzu

Humbreaders “Name” Music Video

A heartwarming song that portrays affection for a loved one.

Included on Humbreaders’ album “Guitar,” released in November 2021, this track is notable for its refreshing melody that tenderly embraces the difficulty of calling someone by name and the singer’s own clumsiness.

While taking the long way around, the protagonist’s search for a bond with someone special is powerfully expressed through a driving sound.

Featured as the ending theme for the TV anime “Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai,” its music video also stands out for its innovative fusion with live painting.

It’s the perfect song for those who want to stay true to themselves while honestly expressing their feelings.

You let me do as I please, and yet…arekunn

You’re the one who let me fall for you / Arekun [Official Music Video]

A heart-wrenching love song by Are-kun that delicately portrays the feelings of a woman suffering from complex emotions after being led on and ultimately betrayed.

The protagonist falls in love and rides an emotional roller coaster in response to the other person’s behavior, while gradually sensing the loneliness of a cooling relationship.

Released in September 2020 and included on the album “Breath,” the song gained traction primarily on social media and drew widespread empathy.

It’s a resonant track that offers comfort to anyone who’s been strung along by suggestive behavior or is struggling with their feelings for someone they care about.

Act like an adult.suisou gurashi

Suisougurashi “Pretending to Be Grown-Up.” Official Music Video

A bittersweet love song that portrays the complex emotions of a woman who goes to meet someone on the last train at midnight.

Released by Suisougurashi in March 2022, the song delicately captures the feelings of a woman swept up in an adult romance.

Set to jazzy sounds and a catchy melody, it vividly depicts her inner conflict as she keeps the relationship going by hiding her true self to suit the other person’s convenience.

With a clear, translucent vocal, it expresses a woman wavering between her straightforward affection and the anxiety of losing her sense of self.

A song that offers comfort to those hurting from unrequited love or heartbreak.