Masterpieces of bittersweet breakup songs. Recommended popular tracks.
It seems that when you’re feeling down, listening to somber songs rather than forcing yourself to listen to upbeat ones is actually better for your heart.
This time, we’ve put together a collection of Japanese breakup songs to send to you, who are hurting from heartbreak.
Let yourself fully relate to the songs you connect with, and clear your mind.
- A breakup song with great lyrics. A beautiful message that lingers in the heart.
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Masterpieces of poignant breakup songs: Recommended popular tracks (101–110)
Can’t Say Anything… SummerTHE JAYWALK
It was released in 1990 as J-WALK’s 18th single.
It became J-WALK’s biggest hit, and it’s a song that conveys the regret and pain of not cherishing the woman who was always by his side supporting him.
A masterpiece that captures the poignant feelings of a heartbreak from a male perspective.
non-lie heartTani Yuuki
A poignant song by Tani Yuuki that beautifully portrays the pain and turmoil of heartbreak, where even promises sworn for eternity can crumble in an instant.
The conflicting emotions—disgust toward the person once loved and a love that still hasn’t faded—are woven together through skillful metaphors that pierce the listener’s heart.
While delicately expressing the wounds left by betrayal, the piece also conveys a strength that strives to overcome the sadness.
Included on the album “Memories,” the lyric video released in December 2021 was directed by Kosuke Matsuoka.
When you’re seeking to heal the wounds of a broken heart, this song will gently stay by your side.
How to Love AfterimagesTele
A delicate sonic world, woven to gently embrace the pain and regret that lie deep within the heart.
Riding on Tele’s slowly flowing, lyrical melodies, the song about a lost love quietly stays close to the listener’s heart.
The tender, almost whispering vocals and the dreamlike soundscape that seems to reflect a city at night create a space filled with a familiar, aching nostalgia.
Released in February 2025, this work serves as the theme song for Tele’s nationwide tour, coloring 12 shows across 9 cities starting in March.
It’s a song that gently accompanies those who have experienced parting with a loved one or who carry unspoken feelings in their hearts.
maybeYOASOBI
A YOASOBI song that depicts a memorable morning of parting.
The protagonist’s quiet farewell is conveyed through delicate words and a heartrending melody.
Released digitally in July 2020, it was also used as the theme song for a short film of the same name.
The lyrics, which portray the complex emotions left after a breakup and the changes in a relationship, resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those who have experienced a springtime farewell or who wish to reflect on memories with someone dear.
petalback number
A heartbreaking breakup song that overlays the fleeting memories of love with cherry blossom petals.
The lyrics delicately portray how memories with a lover linger everywhere in the city, turning even everyday scenes into amplifiers of pain.
While still holding on to love, the reality is that they will never meet again.
This song carries a message that gently embraces that hurt.
Released in April 2011, it was featured as the ending theme for JAPAN COUNTDOWN.
It is sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced a painful romance.
Masterpieces of bittersweet breakup songs. Recommended popular tracks (111–120)
Happy Endingback number
A touching song that sings of the aching feelings for a former lover.
The portrait of a woman who tries to act tough yet cannot sever her lingering attachment is striking.
It depicts the complex emotions of someone who, despite her words, still truly loves the other person.
Released in November 2016, it was also used as the theme song for the film “My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday.” It’s recommended as a chance to sort out your feelings if you’ve experienced parting from someone you love.
Let yourself be carried by back number’s gentle vocals and take a moment to face your own emotions.
Winter and Springback number
It’s a deeply moving song that delicately portrays winter’s chill and the arrival of spring.
The pain of heartbreak and the image of a woman striving to overcome it are expressed in parallel with the changing seasons.
The beautiful metaphor of snow-covered bare branches being likened to flowers, as well as lyrics that reference fairy tales, leave a strong impression.
The characteristically bittersweet lyrics of back number blend perfectly with the refined sound produced by Masataka Shimida.
Released in January 2024, this song gently accompanies those carrying the pain of heartbreak and evokes the sense that a new spring is on its way.
It’s a heartwarming ballad you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.