Yumi Arai Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Graduation PhotoArai Yumi (Matsutoya Yumi)15rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya [Graduation Photo] 2000 Tokyo International Forum

This song, one of the signature works by Yumi Matsutoya, who has led the J-POP scene for many years, was released in 1975.

Loved by countless listeners as a graduation song, it remains a timeless classic even today.

The lyrics depict an adult looking back at their yearbook and reflecting on their school days, and for many, listening to this song rekindles memories of youth and stirs the heart.

It’s also an anthem that encourages you to carry the burning passion of your youth and keep moving forward.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

If I’m wrapped in kindnessArai Yumi (gen: Matsutoya Yumi)16rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – If Wrapped in Kindness (THE LAST WEDNESDAY TOUR 2006 ~HERE COMES THE WAVE~)

Since her debut in 1972, singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya has continued to release numerous hit songs.

Her third single, “Yasashisa ni Tsutsumareta Nara” (“Wrapped in Gentleness”), became widely known across generations after its album version was used as the ending theme for the 1989 film Kiki’s Delivery Service, 15 years after the original release.

Its airy, gentle melody overflows with a timeless charm that transcends eras.

With its soothing acoustic sound, it remains a beloved classic cherished by listeners of all ages.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

I want to go back to that dayArai Yumi (Matsutoya Yumi)17rank/position

Those Were The Days / Anohi Ni Kaeritai

Yumi Matsutoya, who is still active as a singer, had the maiden name Arai before marriage.

A pioneer among female artists in the New Music genre, her song “Ano Hi ni Kaeritai” was released under the name Yumi Arai in October 1975 and became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon chart and selling over 600,000 copies.

Late Summer (A Season for One)Arai Yumi18rank/position

Late Summer 2021 Yumi Arai

This is a song by Yumi Arai that overlays the changing seasonal scenery with the end of a romance and the beginning of time alone.

The sight of leaves blazing with color and delicate flowers swaying in the wind seems to reflect the protagonist’s loneliness.

The song was included on the album “The 14th Moon,” released under the name Yumi Arai in November 1976, and it also served as the theme song for the NHK dramas “Natsu no Furusato” and “Maboroshi no Budōen.” Its poignant melody—mingling a lingering affection for the summer that has passed with a quiet resolve for the seasons to come—resonates deeply with listeners.

Whether you play it on a drive while reminiscing about summer or during a slightly chilly evening stroll, it will gently keep you company.

Chinese soupArai Yumi (Matsutoya Yumi)19rank/position

Chinese Soup / Yumi Arai (by Oke Janko)

It’s one of Arai Yumi’s (Yumi Matsutoya’s maiden name) popular songs, in which she looks back on a former lover by comparing him to a pea.

Depending on how you interpret it, the lyrics can seem to reveal a darker side of a woman, but it’s ultimately a song that cheers on women in love.

If I’m wrapped in kindnessArai Yumi (Matsutoya Yumi)20rank/position

Embraced In Softness / Yasashisa Ni Tsutsumareta Nara

It’s a song filled with kindness and hope, carrying a message that cherishes childlike innocence.

Released in 1974 as Yumi Arai’s third single, it was also included on the album “MISSLIM.” In 1989, it was chosen as the ending theme for the film “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” resonating with even more listeners.

It’s a piece you’ll want to hear at life’s milestones and on special days.

Perfect for a wedding reception welcome scene, it will envelop the couple and guests in a warm atmosphere.

It’s a heartwarming song that will also stay close to your everyday life after marriage.

I want to go back to that day.Arai Yumi21rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – I Want to Return to That Day (Yumi Arai The Concert with Old Friends)

A classic by Yumi Arai that poignantly sings of longing for days gone by.

Released in October 1975, this song was used as the theme for the drama “Katei no Himitsu” (Family Secrets) and became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

The lyrics delicately depict lingering attachment to the past and inner conflict.

Arai’s clear, translucent vocals and the simple yet deeply moving arrangement resonate profoundly with listeners.

When you want to look back on memories with someone special, be sure to give this song a listen.