Popular Moving Songs Ranking [2026]

sunflowerAdo22rank/position

[Ado] Sunflower

Like flowers that face straight toward the midsummer sun, this song by Ado delivers a positive, uplifting feeling.

Released in July 2023, it captured the hearts of many viewers as the theme song for the TBS drama “18/40: Dreams and Love if We’re Together.” The lyrics carefully portray a wish to gradually overcome one’s timidity and a sense of gratitude toward someone dear, gently encouraging those who are approaching a milestone like graduation.

The song was written and composed by Miyuhan, with arrangement by 40mP.

Ado’s voice—powerful yet crystalline—blends with the hope-filled melody, resonating warmly in the listener’s heart.

This piece is perfect when you need the courage to take a new step or want to engrave the bonds of friendship in your heart.

It’s a reliable anthem of support that stands by everyone embarking on a new springtime journey.

366 daysHY23rank/position

HY – 366 Days (Official Music Video)

Based on letters from HY’s fans, this song beautifully captures the pain of parting and the bittersweet feeling of continuing to love.

The lyrics, drawn from member Izumi Nakasone’s personal experiences, are full of realism and resonate deeply with listeners.

Included on the album “HeartY,” released in April 2008, it garnered major media attention, serving as the theme song for the drama and film “Akai Ito” (Red Thread).

It’s a standout ballad recommended not only for those who can relate to the sorrow of heartbreak, but also for anyone who wants to feel the depth of pure love.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number24rank/position

back number - “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” Music Video (Theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love”)

Known for tear-jerking songs and being the best at singing about bittersweet love, back number’s “HAPPY BIRTHDAY.” From the title you might think it’s a birthday song, but it’s not sung to someone else—it’s sung to oneself.

It’s a song overflowing with the feelings of wanting, or having wanted, to be celebrated by the person you like; an unfulfilled love; and a one-sided affection for that special someone.

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whiteoutreGretGirl25rank/position

reGretGirl "Whiteout" Official Music Video

reGretGirl is popular for their heart-achingly bittersweet vocals and lyrics that make your heart skip a beat.

Their song “Whiteout” is sprinkled with those swoon-worthy moments throughout.

You can also feel a modern vibe in various parts of the lyrics.

Since it’s sung by a man, it might come across as a bit clingy, but even from a female perspective there are many “so true” moments.

A moving song brimming with bittersweet emotion.

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LemonYonezu Kenshi26rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

This song gives voice to a profound sense of loss for someone irreplaceable, while holding on to feelings that refuse to fade.

Released by Kenshi Yonezu in March 2018, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Unnatural.” The lyrics reflect Yonezu’s own experience of losing his grandfather during production.

The music video, filmed in a church, surpassed one million views just 13 hours after release and went on to exceed 900 million views—a record-breaking hit.

Its heartfelt melody and delicate lyrics gently accompany the pain of loss that everyone carries.

It’s a song to listen to when you want to look back on memories of someone dear, or spend a quiet night facing the past.

A bouquet of flowers with loveSuperfly27rank/position

Superfly “A Bouquet With Love” Music Video

This is one of Superfly’s signature songs and a huge favorite as a bridal tune.

Shiho Ochi’s powerful yet warm vocals convey straightforward gratitude to someone special and an unwavering, deep love that never changes no matter what.

The lyrics compare a range of emotions—joy, sorrow, and more—to colors, embracing them all, which really hits home.

Released in February 2008 as their fourth single, the song also served as the theme for the drama “Edison no Haha” (Edison’s Mother).

As you reach life’s milestones, why not let this song resonate with your heart and share your honest feelings with someone important to you?

Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu28rank/position

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

Broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and selected as the required piece for the junior high division of the 80th NHK All-Japan School Choir Competition, this song is likely one many people have performed at choral contests.

It’s an inspiring number by Yuzu that carries the message that we are connected under the same sky, even when we’re apart.

Released in September 2013 as their 38th single, it originated from a song written for their staff after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.

The lyrics express feelings for a friend taking a new step forward despite anxiety, making it perfect for a graduation ceremony as a moment to reaffirm those bonds.

It’s also ideal as background music for a friendship memory video—a graduation song sure to move viewers to tears.