Popular Autumn Songs Ranking [2026]

Moonlight FlowerJanne Da Arc15rank/position

Janne Da Arc – Gekkouka (Moonlight Flower)

A poignant autumn classic that depicts fleeting love and the sorrow of heartbreak.

Known as one of Janne Da Arc’s signature songs, this single was released in January 2005 and was also used as the opening theme for the popular anime Black Jack.

Its distinctive arrangement blends ethereal strings with rock sounds, highlighted by Yasu’s expansive, resonant vocals.

The lyrics, which liken feelings for a lost lover to flowers, make it a song you’ll want to savor on long autumn nights.

With a karaoke-friendly melody line, it’s a track that evokes nostalgia for those who came of age in their 30s.

Togetsu Bridge ~Thinking of You~Kuraki Mai16rank/position

Mai Kuraki “Togetsukyo ~Kimi Omou~” Music Video (Short Ver.)

A ballad released in April 2017 as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: The Crimson Love Letter, set in autumnal Kyoto.

Its lyrics, woven with distinctly Japanese imagery such as the Togetsukyo Bridge, flowing rivers, and autumn foliage, perfectly suit the season and tenderly depict the aching feelings of someone pining for a loved one.

With this song, Mai Kuraki marked her 21st musical contribution to the Conan series, earning a Guinness World Record.

The arrangement incorporating traditional Japanese instruments and the music video featuring junihitoe robes, among other Kyoto-inspired touches, are also captivating.

Why not listen to it on a long autumn night and reminisce about your school days watching Conan?

Have you seen the crimson-red sky?BUMP OF CHICKEN17rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN "Have You Seen the Crimson Sky?"

Born from a sunset Masukiyo Fujiwara witnessed during a creative slump, this track is a high-velocity rock number whose lyrics carry a nursery rhyme–like gentleness.

The uncertain distance—unsure whether the other person saw that red sky—evokes the ache of unrequited love.

It was included as the B-side to the single “Namida no Furusato” released in November 2006, and later collected on the B-sides compilation “present from you.” Having been completed after a period of anguish when he couldn’t write songs, the lyrics vividly reflect the struggles of creation and a thirst for expression.

It’s a song for anyone who’s ever been moved by a beautiful sunset—or who feels stuck and needs something to stir their heart.

SeptemberTakeuchi Mariya18rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – September [Live Version / 2000 @ Nippon Budokan]

This is Mariya Takeuchi’s third single, released in August 1979.

While the song has a bright, poppy feel, there’s a certain melancholy to it.

As summer draws to a close, it tells of the bittersweet change of heart as a loved one’s feelings drift away.

In contrast to the light, upbeat sound, the emotions of a woman watching her lover slip away cut right to the heart.

Takeuchi’s gentle, enveloping vocals only serve to highlight the loneliness in the lyrics.

Thanks to this hit, the song won the New Artist Award at the 21st Japan Record Awards and was also included on the acclaimed album “LOVE SONGS.” On a long autumn night, with a slight chill in the air, give it a listen and pay attention to the story-like lyrics as they unfold.

KoiAndrop19rank/position

androp – “Koi” Music Video, theme song for the film “Until I Meet September’s Love”

androp is a four-piece rock band acclaimed for their meticulous sonic approach.

This song was written as the theme for the film “Until I Meet September’s Love” and released in February 2019 as their 11th single.

Even when fate stands in the way and meeting becomes impossible, an unwavering resolve to keep thinking of the other person is conveyed through delicate piano tones and a crystal-clear vocal.

Its pure, unadorned lyrics quietly stir the listener’s heart.

It’s a perfect classic for moments when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special, wrapped in the slightly wistful air of autumn.

cosmos (flower)Yamaguchi Momoe20rank/position

Momoe Yamaguchi - Cosmos

Momoe Yamaguchi’s singing voice has a timeless charm.

This song is a heartwarming piece that expresses a daughter’s gratitude to her mother as she marries and leaves home.

Against an autumn backdrop, the daughter’s complex feelings are portrayed with delicate nuance.

Released in October 1977, the song left a deep impression on many listeners.

It is often performed at weddings and other life milestones, and is loved across generations.

Why not listen to it while reminiscing about your youth and reflecting on your gratitude to someone dear? It will surely warm your heart.

The Wind RisesMatsuda Seiko21rank/position

Seiko Matsuda - The Wind Rises

Among Seiko Matsuda’s songs, this one is especially popular, noted for a melody that evokes the autumn breeze and lyrics full of lyricism.

It beautifully portrays the feelings of a woman after heartbreak, overlapping them with autumn scenery.

Also used in a Glico Pocky commercial, the song was released in October 1981 and reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

It has continued to be loved as one of Seiko Matsuda’s signature songs.

On a quiet autumn night, if you find yourself alone by the window lost in thought, be sure to listen to this piece.

Its heartfelt vocals will surely bring you comfort.