A classic of poignant, heartwarming songs. Recommended popular tracks.

balladKetsumeiji

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

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.

Peerless BlossomAina ji Endo

AiNA THE END – Hana Musou [Official Music Video]

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.

I want to see you.yuzu

Aitai

In April 2009, Yuzu released a gem of a ballad imbued with a stirring melody and deep feelings for a loved one.

Created by Kitagawa as an expression of gratitude and love for his late father, the song touched many hearts as the theme for the NHK drama “Ghost Friends.” Carried by a warm piano tone and a beautiful string arrangement, it gives voice to a heartfelt wish for a beloved person who has been lost.

Their moving performance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen remains fresh in memory, and the song was also included on the album “Yuzu Iroha 1997–2017,” where it continues to be cherished.

It is a piece that gently stays close to the hearts of those who have experienced the parting of a dear one or who carry feelings they cannot fully express.

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Hitomi wo Tojite – Ken Hirai (Full)

A gem of a ballad suffused with the lingering ache of deep, bittersweet love.

Ken Hirai’s delicate, soul-stirring vocals beautifully convey the profound longing and sense of loss for a departed lover.

Sung with the purest feeling of closing one’s eyes and picturing the one you love, this work was released as a single in April 2004.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love in the Center of the World,” it topped the Oricon year-end chart.

Its heart-piercing vocals and beautiful melody line make it a refined track for adults—perfect for a night drive or a quiet moment alone.

Always the two of usShimazu Aya

Aya Shimazu “Always the Two of Us” Official Music Video

Aya Shimazu gently sings about memories with her beloved dog, whom she met under warm sunlight.

The original Japanese song included on the album “AYA’s Soul Searchin’ -Aretha Franklin-,” which covers Aretha Franklin’s music, expresses her feelings for the dog she spent 12 years with.

Since its release in July 2024, it has been featured on TBS Television’s “Wannyanko Kansatsu Variety Animaring,” drawing significant attention.

This work is not only relatable to those who have lost a cherished dog, but also a tender, encouraging song that resonates with anyone who has experienced a farewell to someone dear.

ColonyBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN "Colony"

Many people would cite BUMP OF CHICKEN’s appeal as their intense guitar sound and sense of dynamism.

At the same time, their ballads are exceptional and very popular.

“Colony” is one such song.

Be sure to pay attention to the music video as well.

Still loving youChris Hart

Chris Hart – “Still Loving You” MUSIC VIDEO

I think Chris Hart understands Japanese and sings with meaning even more than many Japanese people do, though I basically see him as someone who sings Japanese and overseas cover songs—but he surpasses that.

This song says that no matter what kind of parting there is, I will love you for the rest of my life—even if we can’t meet.