Popular Moving Songs Ranking [2026]

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo22rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

Against the backdrop of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, Yo Hitoto wrote this renowned ballad as a prayer for peace.

Its lyrics, depicting unconditional love that wishes for the lasting happiness of dear ones and their loved ones, gently move the hearts of listeners.

Released in February 2004 as her fifth single, the song is also known as the theme for the film of the same name starring Yui Aragaki and Toma Ikuta.

It set a record by staying on the Oricon chart for 125 consecutive weeks and has been passed down through many voices.

The melody that the yutori generation heard in their youth is sure to resonate even more deeply now that they’ve grown up.

On a night when you want to quietly wish for someone’s happiness, why not listen to it again?

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.

LemonYonezu Kenshi24rank/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.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number25rank/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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whiteoutreGretGirl26rank/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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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.