A classic of poignant, heartwarming songs. Recommended popular tracks.
When your heart is weary or wounded, you may find yourself wanting to listen to moving songs and sink into a pensive mood.
Here, I’ve compiled a list of poignant and touching Japanese songs that are perfect for just such moments.
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Masterpieces of poignant, moving songs. Recommended popular tracks (71–80)
I stillmilet
The piercing lyrics and milet’s beautiful vocals leave a strong impression.
Written as the theme song for the film “Unknown Girlfriend,” it was released digitally in January 2025 and on CD single in February.
A special track created for a character that milet herself plays in the movie, it features profound lyrics themed around parting and reunion that truly resonate.
Since the song ties closely to the film’s story, it’s best enjoyed alongside the movie.
It’s also a track you’ll want to listen to when you want to savor your feelings for someone important.
coarse sugaraimyon
A work by Aimyon that sings of pain deeply lodged in the heart.
This piece was written specifically as the theme song for a suspense drama.
It’s striking in the way it faces one’s own emotions while still striving to look forward.
Included on the album “Jealousy of a Cat,” the song drew attention alongside the drama “May Lonely Deaths Pile Up,” which began airing in July 2024.
It’s recommended for those carrying heartache or those who want to confront themselves.
It might also be nice to listen alone on a quiet night.
Spirit Boat (Shoro Nagashi)sadamasashi
A musical prayer that gently enfolds the pain of losing a loved one in a tender, wistful melody.
The poignant story Masashi Sada weaves—set around a traditional festival in Nagasaki—delicately captures the feelings of those left behind.
Through cherished promises made in life, keepsakes crafted together, and the changing shape of family, a profound love and loneliness well up in the heart.
Released by Grape in April 1974, the song gradually spread, especially in the Chukyo region, climbing to No.
2 on the Oricon chart and selling 1.3 million copies.
It shone once again in 2003 as the theme song for an NHK drama.
A gem of a ballad that quietly stays close to anyone who has said goodbye to someone important.
Rain, then Sunshine Hallelujahyuzu
Popular duo Yuzu have many great songs, but “Ame Nochihareluya” is especially moving and tear-jerking.
It’s also known as the theme song for an NHK drama.
Although it’s bittersweet, it has a mysterious charm that leaves you feeling uplifted afterward.
Peerless BlossomAina ji Endo
A soul-stirring, epic ballad.
Written as the theme song for the film Mononoke the Movie: Chapter Two – Fire Rat, set for release on March 14, 2025, this piece beautifully blends gentle piano melodies with a stunning string arrangement.
Aina the End masterfully conveys the emotions born in the space between love and loss.
It’s a song to listen to on nights spent deep in thought, with someone dear in your mind.
Especially when your heart is wavering, this song will be there to stay close to you.
humorKitanitatsuya
A heartwarming, poetic expression woven from kindness and wistfulness gently embraces the longing for a presence to accompany one through a lonely night.
Tatsuya Kitani has expressed through music the profound insight that even if people are not eternal, words can continue to heal the heart forever.
Released in February 2025 as the theme song for the film “Yukite Kaeranu,” the piece beautifully colors, through music, a world set in the Taisho era that portrays the youth and love of three real historical figures.
Its melody, imbued with respect for the power of words and the timelessness of poetry, will resonate with those who wish to touch the subtleties of life and the feelings we hold for others.
balladKetsumeiji
Ketsumeishi is active as a Japanese rap group, and while some of their albums have racy titles or lyrics, their slow numbers can be poignantly moving.
Among them, this ballad and “Kachōfūgetsu” are songs I especially recommend you listen to.