Masterpieces of bittersweet breakup songs. Recommended popular tracks.

You’re no longer here.FUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS "You’re Not Here Anymore"

This is a gem of a ballad that sings of the sweet, aching pain of heartbreak.

The farewell scene on the station platform and the memories the two shared are delicately portrayed and delivered with a melody that pierces the heart.

Among FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ works, it stands out for its rich emotional expression.

Released in October 2007, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Otona no Shikaku,” earning broad support across generations.

The song is also included on the album “FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 2,” and has been covered by Mariko Takahashi.

It’s a heartwarming track that stays by your side when you sense the end of a romance or go through a farewell with someone dear.

Goodbyeofukōsu

Sayonara

This is a pure love ballad that poignantly portrays the end of a romance, released as an Off Course single in December 1979.

With Kazumasa Oda’s warm yet translucent vocals and a heart-stirring melody, the song richly conveys the sorrow of parting.

Its gentle, relatable lyrics—about a first heartbreak or a bittersweet farewell to someone dear—have made it a beloved classic that quietly resonates with listeners.

It was also featured as an insert song in the first season of the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B” and later included on the album “SELECTION 1978-81.” As a song that stands by you through the poignant end of love that comes with winter’s chill, it’s especially recommended for those facing a farewell with someone important.

Rainy Amusement ParkSasuke

Rainy Amusement Park

This is a ballad that poignantly depicts memories of a couple’s date at an amusement park and their bittersweet parting.

It weaves together contrasting scenes: a past moment of riding a carousel in the rain, and the present, where the narrator catches sight of a former lover with shorter hair, looking happy.

The lingering attachment the protagonist still feels, along with a quiet resolve to face forward and live on, gently presses on the heart.

A warm sound centered on acoustic guitar and piano highlights the story-rich lyrics.

Included on Sasuke’s album “Smile,” the piece was released in October 2004, reached No.

3 on the Oricon charts, sold over 450,000 copies, and was certified Platinum.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a rainy day, especially when you’re trying to heal the pain of a broken heart.

Hide-and-seekYuuri

Yuuri “Kakurenbo” Official Music Video

A poignant ballad that likens a breakup with a live-in lover to the children’s game of hide-and-seek.

Through images of a tumbler left behind and a messy room, it vividly portrays a man’s heart steeped in emptiness and loneliness.

Yuuri’s delicate vocals, paired with a simple, guitar-centered arrangement, superbly convey the pain of heartbreak.

Released in December 2019, the recording was supervised by Hiro of MY FIRST STORY.

The music video, directed by Elizabeth Miyaji and featuring actress Yuu Kinoyama, further deepens the work’s world.

It is a gem of a love song that closely resonates with those who have just experienced a breakup or who still harbor longing for someone dear.

The Last LieBENI

Saigonouso

An emotionally moving ballad where bittersweet feelings are conveyed through a clear, translucent singing voice.

Released in January 2012, this song by BENI delicately portrays the emotions of someone accepting a breakup while wishing for just one gentle lie at the very end.

Its beautiful melody, centered on piano and strings, further highlights the lingering attachment to a loved one and the pain of parting.

The lyrics were written by BENI herself, with composition by Yoko Kuzuya.

Included on the album “Fortune,” it is cherished by many as a ballad that feels close to the heart.

Resonating with those who have experienced the pain of losing someone irreplaceable, this song helps soothe the wounds of heartbreak.

planetariumOtsuka Ai

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.

Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.

Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.

Flavor Of LifeUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – Flavor of Life -Ballad Version-

This is a masterpiece that delicately portrays the bittersweet pain of heartbreak and parting.

Released in February 2007, it’s a song by Hikaru Utada and served as the image song for the TBS drama “Boys Over Flowers 2 (Returns).” It beautifully expresses the many emotions brought on by saying goodbye to someone you love, with a memorable melody that resonates as if you can feel the very essence of love throughout your whole body.

The song topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for three consecutive weeks and was also included on the album “HEART STATION.” It’s a track that resonates deeply during the poignant moments of love or when you’re feeling uncertain about a relationship with someone important.