[2026] Traditional Japanese Music that Sings Prayers: A Compilation of J-POP Masterpieces
Even when we say “prayer,” what we’re praying for differs from person to person.
Just seeing the word “prayer” might evoke an image of something noble and sacred, but prayers can also be modest wishes—and at times they may even include negative emotions.
In this article, we highlight classic Japanese songs centered on the theme of “prayer,” featuring tracks that include the word “prayer” in their titles as well as songs whose theme itself is prayer.
Alongside timeless favorites and hit songs, we’ve also selected noteworthy tracks released in recent years, making this an article we hope many people will check out.
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[2026] Japanese music that sings prayers: A collection of J-POP masterpieces (21–30)
A prayer resounding across the skyAqua Timez
Aqua Timez, the long-awaited five-piece rock band that reunited in 2024.
Created to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut, this work features a moving ensemble with grand-scale sound and rich choral arrangements.
The warm vocals beautifully portray a worldview where wistfulness and nostalgia intersect with hope for the future.
This song shares its title with their legendary mini-album, “Sora Ippai ni Kanaderu Inori,” which topped the charts as an indie release in August 2005, and serves as a symbol of their fresh new start.
It’s a motivational anthem not only for those who were once encouraged by their music, but also for anyone seeking a gentle push at a turning point in life.
PrayerImai Miki
This is a single by Miki Imai released in November 2007.
It was created with the image of the film ‘The Elephant’s Back,’ in which Imai appeared.
Before its release, it was performed at the ‘Miki Imai Concert in Himeji Castle.’ It reached number 79 on the Oricon chart.
[2026] Japanese Music that Sings Prayers: A Collection of J-POP Masterpieces (31–40)
openJO1
Formed through the audition program PRODUCE 101 JAPAN, JO1 is a global boy group that continues its remarkable rise.
Known for their powerful dance tracks, they unveiled a new side of their appeal with a song released in August 2025.
Written specifically for them by singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata, this medium-tempo ballad weaves hopes for growth and heartfelt feelings for a loved one—like a small bud dreaming of the day it blooms in its own color.
Serving as the theme song for the film “Mt.
Fuji, Coffee, and the Equation of Happiness,” it warmly accompanies the story.
It’s a gentle work that softly lights a lamp in your heart when you take a new step forward.
Prayer for PeaceTōhō Gakuen Seito
This is a song used as a diegetic piece in the first Godzilla film, released in 1954.
It was sung at the Toho Gakuen Great Hall by a chorus of over 2,000 students.
The composer is Akira Ifukube, who handled much of the music for the Godzilla series.
The lyrics were written by Shigeru Kayama, the original creator of Godzilla.
Prayerrokushi
This is the second single released by singer-songwriter Rokko in November 2008.
It’s a song that makes you feel gentle as you listen, so it’s recommended for times when you’re feeling down.
The first pressing included a promotional video.
Seeds of joyMrs. GREEN APPLE
A gem of a number that teaches us the nobility of believing and the joy of living.
Included on the best-of album “10,” which capped the 10th anniversary of the rock band Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s debut, this piece was originally a track on a CD sold exclusively at concert venues in July 2014.
The once-mythic masterpiece, written by vocalist Motoki Omori when he was 17, has been reborn with a grand orchestral arrangement.
Listen to it when you want to reaffirm your bond with someone special, and it will surely warm your heart.
usyama
A mid-tempo track released in July 2025 as the theme song for the drama “The Day of the Kidnapping” starring Takumi Saitoh.
It portrays a serious world view: the pain borne by a girl who has lost her memory and the warmth of human touch she experiences for the first time.
yama’s vocals embody a pure desire to stay close to someone dear.
Gently resonant strings and piano evoke a clear sense of hope amid the bittersweet mood.
Listen to it on lonely nights or when you long for human kindness, and it will surely warm your heart.