Popular Moving Songs Ranking [2026]

planetariumOtsuka Ai43rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.

Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.

Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.

Karakuri Pierrot40mP44rank/position

[Hatsune Miku (40mP)] Karakuri Pierrot [Original]

The Vocaloid song I want you to listen to when heartbreak makes your chest tighten is “Karakuri Pierrot.” Created by 40mP—a Vocaloid producer who also works as a singer-songwriter—it was released in 2011 and is known as one of his signature tracks.

Its catchy band sound is notable for its jazzy tones.

The melody is beautiful yet fragile, perfectly suited to Hatsune Miku’s heartbreakingly emotional vocals.

Among “emo” Vocaloid songs, this is a number I recommend to those who want to have a good cry and feel refreshed.

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Thank youikimonogakari45rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

Feelings of gratitude that are too embarrassing to express on ordinary days might be easier to convey honestly at graduation.

This song, which portrays the warmth of holding someone’s hand, the happiness of everyday life, and the resolve to walk toward the future, is truly a classic befitting a new beginning.

Ikimono-gakari’s single “Arigatou,” released in May 2010, was widely loved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyōbō.

Thanks to its universal appeal, it was also selected as the entrance march for the 2011 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The words woven by Yoshiki Mizuno and the vocals of Kiyoe Yoshioka gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Why not listen to this perfect piece for expressing gratitude to parents and teachers at graduation and find the courage to take your next step?

March 9Remioromen46rank/position

Remioromen – March 9

As a graduation-season staple that has long been cherished, this is Remioromen’s heartwarming classic ballad.

Originally created as a celebration for a friend’s wedding, the song gently encourages those embarking on a new chapter in life.

Its message—pausing amid the flow of the seasons to reaffirm bonds with loved ones—resonates deeply alongside Ryota Fujimaki’s soaring vocals.

Although it was released as a single in March 2004, many people may remember it as a defining song of their youth after it was featured the following year in the drama “1 Litre of Tears.” It’s also included on the album “ether.” On a spring day when farewells and new encounters intertwine, why not listen to it while thinking of old friends?

globeYonezu Kenshi47rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Spinning Globe

Released in July 2023, the 14th single “Spinning Globe” was written as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film “The Boy and the Heron.” It sings of the journey that continues from the beginning of life, and the preciousness of moving toward the future while experiencing repeated meetings and farewells.

The song took four years to create and was reportedly made as a “return gift” for what was received from director Hayao Miyazaki.

With its grand arrangement and vocals that convey strength within gentleness, it’s an emotional number that stirs the heart.

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu48rank/position

Spitz / I Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky

This song vividly portrays the wavering emotions of youth.

With poetic expressions of infatuation, anxiety, and a longing for freedom, it’s a beloved Spitz classic that resonates with listeners.

Skillfully capturing the exhilaration of pure love along with the accompanying unease and pain, the piece feels like one’s own story.

Released as a single in 1994 and included on the album How to Fly in the Sky, it gained broad support after being chosen as the theme song for the 1996 Fuji TV drama Hakusen Nagashi, and it reached No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart.

The lyrics reflect not only sweet romance but also moments of life itself, evoking empathy across generations and enduring affection.

It’s a perfect song for making memories with someone special or for lifting your spirits.

day by dayYoshida Yamada49rank/position

Hibi / Yoshida Yamada [MUSIC VIDEO]

Yoshida Yamada deliver a heartfelt performance of a gem-like love song that gently depicts the daily life of an elderly couple who have spent many years together.

From their first meeting through marriage, child-rearing, and old age, this warm story that reexamines life’s joys and sorrows is deeply moving.

Released in December 2013, the song was featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” with member Yoshitaka Yamada also handling the character design for the animation.

More than a decade after the group’s formation, this track beautifully crystallizes the musicality the duo has woven together.

Loved by many, it’s a perfect Mother’s Day gift—a song imbued with gratitude for family and the bonds between parents and children.