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[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.

[2026] Japanese music that sings prayers. A collection of J-POP masterpieces (41–50)

Beyond PrayerShikata Akiko

Beyond the Prayer – Akiko Shikata
Beyond PrayerShikata Akiko

This is a single by Akiko Shikata released in April 2010.

It was used as the ending theme—except for the final episode—for the OVA Tales of Symphonia THE ANIMATION: Tethe’alla Chapter.

It peaked at number 19 on the Oricon charts.

[2026] Traditional Japanese Music that Sings Prayers: A Collection of J-Pop Masterpieces (51–60)

Prayer of the Orbmizuki ichirō with boijā

In 2016, the opening theme of Ultraman Orb featured a collaboration between Ichiro Mizuki and Voyager, who have performed many songs from the Ultra Series.

It was used as the ending theme only in the final episode.

The lyrics and composition were handled by Toshihiko Takamizawa of THE ALFEE.

Maiden’s PrayerMayuzumi Jun

Maiden’s Prayer / Deja Vu feat. Eiko Nakamura
Maiden's PrayerMayuzumi Jun

This is a single by Jun Mayuzumi released in January 1968, which reached No.

2 on the Oricon chart.

It is an insert song from the film “Yoake no Futari,” in which Mayuzumi herself appeared.

Momoe Yamaguchi covered it on her album “Aoi Kajitsu / Kinjirareta Asobi.”

Message — kotodute —Porunogurafiti

It’s a song with a gentle rock sound imbued with deep prayers and wishes.

The 55th single by Porno Graffitti, created with Hiroshima—marking 80 years since the atomic bombing—as its theme, it was released digitally in April 2025.

The track was used as the ending theme for NHK Hiroshima’s documentary program “Connect: Messages to the Future — Porno Graffitti Connects Through ‘Song.’” The program featured the background of the song’s production and conversations with atomic bomb survivors.

Give it a listen when you want to feel a commitment to peace or to quietly calm your mind.

Azure RabbitNoriko Sakai

It is a signature song by Noriko Sakai, released in May 1995.

It was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Hoshi no Kinka” (Heaven’s Coins).

It reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts and won the Excellence Award at the Japan Record Awards.

It was later covered by Nanase Aikawa.

AsterAkito Asu

Meito – Aster / ASU – Aster
Aster Akito Asu

This work is presented by the virtual singer, Akiro.

Set against the backdrop of the cosmos and the stars, it delicately portrays loneliness and hope.

The crystalline vocals and beautiful melodies blend together to deeply resonate with listeners.

It was released early on December 29, 2024, and is included on the second album, “ray of hope.” Written and composed by Akita Horie, the song symbolizes the album’s theme of “light.” The lyrics, where transience and eternity, warmth and solitude intersect, remind us of the preciousness of every moment in life and our connections with others.

It’s a moving track you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.

The Prayer of the ConfutatisARTERY VEIN

It’s the debut single released in August 2010 by the unit ARTERY VEIN, consisting of Asami Imai and Eri Kitamura.

It peaked at number 71 on the Oricon charts and was used as the ending theme for the PSP game Corpse Party: Blood Covered … Repeated Fear.