Masterpieces of poignant anime songs. Recommended popular tracks.

Treasure of FlamesBOBBY

Treasure of Flame (Bobby) — from Lupin the Third: The Castle of Cagliostro

Speaking of Bobby’s “Honō no Takarabono” (Treasure of Flame), it’s the ending theme of none other than the masterpiece among masterpieces in the Japanese anime world, Lupin the Third: The Castle of Cagliostro.

As you can tell when you listen, it’s an achingly bittersweet and utterly wonderful song.

Ash and PrayerGEMS COMPANY

GEMS COMPANY “Ash and Prayer” (Anime ‘NieR:Automata Ver1.1a’ Cour 2 Ending Theme) Music Video

A moving song where the transience of life and the glimmer of hope intersect.

Chosen as the ending theme for cour 2 of the anime NieR:Automata Ver1.1a, it draws you into a world crafted by Taro Yoko’s lyrics and Keiichi Okabe’s music.

The imagery of ash and prayer leaves a strong impression, and the lyrics depicting human sin and redemption pierce the heart.

Released in July 2024, this track resonates all the more the more you know the story of NieR.

Listening to this work, where profound sorrow and hope intertwine, may give you courage when you stand at a crossroads in life or when you have lost someone dear.

The Garden of WordsRAIN

"The Garden of Words OST / Kotonoha no Niwa" Rain - Motohiro Hata | Cover by Kim Dallim and Hamabal

Makoto Shinkai is a popular animation director.

The song “The Garden of Words,” sung by RAIN, was created as the theme for his fifth animated film, The Garden of Words.

Like the film, the song is heartrending and achingly beautiful, resonating deeply with the heart.

TOUGH BOYTOM☆CAT

Fist of the North Star 2 Opening “TOUGH BOY”

TOM☆CAT’s song “TOUGH BOY” is also famous as the opening theme for the popular action anime “Fist of the North Star 2,” which took the Showa era by storm.

It’s also noteworthy that Tsuyoshi Ujiki participated as a producer.

In that casemakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Empitsu "Saraba" Music Video

This song is characterized by a fresh, exhilarating sound and lyrics that portray a bittersweet, unrequited love.

With the melodious style typical of Macaroni Enpitsu, the production evokes both the warmth and the pain of youth.

It expresses the powerlessness of a love that won’t be returned, along with the aching inability to let go of those feelings, making it a track that resonates with many listeners.

Released in January 2025, it was selected as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime Blue Box.

The song matches the anime’s worldview and is recommended for anyone grappling with love and youth.

Orphan HachiIshikawa Hitomi

Insect Story: Orphan Hacchi OP ED

When it comes to heartbreaking anime songs, nothing beats this one: Hitomi Ishikawa’s “Minashigo Hatchi.” It’s the opening theme for the well-known and beloved anime “Minashigo Hatch.” I’m sure many people shed tears listening to this song while watching the show.

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko

A Cruel Angel's Thesis – Yoko Takahashi (Full)

Speaking of Evangelion, it’s a truly legendary anime loved not only in Japan but all around the world.

And just as beloved as the anime itself is the theme song “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” sung by Yoko Takahashi.

It’s a famous song that everyone has heard at least once.