Ikimono-gakari’s Most Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]

Earthikimonogakari15rank/position

“Earth” by Ikimono-gakari (Cover) IkiFes 2015 ♪ “Nostalgia” Live

This is a gem-like ballad themed around parting and reunion, imbued with a deep affection for our living planet.

It’s a cherished song that has been carefully passed down since their indie days, and a memorable piece written and composed by Hotaka Yamashita when he was 16.

Included on the album “NEWTRAL,” it features an arrangement notable for the distinctive timbre of the jaw harp.

It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to when thinking of someone dear who’s far away, or when standing at a crossroads in life.

coloring; color scheme; hues; decoration; embellishment; added flair (figurative)ikimonogakari16rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Irodori” Music Video (Odakyu Group corporate commercial song)

This song features a characteristically Ikimonogakari, familiar and beautiful melody and Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, expansive vocals.

The lyrics sing about nurturing connections between people and cherishing the colors that arise from them.

The bright, positive words are striking and match well with the relaxed, ballad-like arrangement.

Listening to it gives you a reassuring feeling, as if you’re being gently encouraged from behind.

The song is used in Odakyu Electric Railway’s commercial, “Connected, Expanding Days.”

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Hane Keisuke

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Bright and clear!ikimonogakari17rank/position

TV anime “Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin” non-credit opening movie / Opening theme: Ikimonogakari “Harubaru!” | Airing every Saturday from 23:00!

This is a song by Ikimono-gakari, with fresh vocals and a lively rhythm that resonates pleasantly.

Released in July 2024, it was chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin.” The lyrics carry a direct and powerful message about living strongly, giving you courage.

The bright yet warm sound arrangement is also captivating.

This track is sure to blow away the haze in your heart! It’s the perfect song when you’re feeling tired from work or daily life.

Give it a listen!

Let’s walkikimonogakari18rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Aruite Ikō” Music Video

Ikimonogakari’s “Aruite Ikō,” released in 2012 and included on the album NEWTRAL, is a warm, comforting song.

Its acoustic sound unfolds gently, and when the powerful vocals layer in, it conjures an image of moving forward with a positive mindset.

The lyrics express that living through the present leads to the future, conveying an encouraging message to keep doing your best and move ahead.

As a commercial song, it was used in a Shionogi pharmaceutical ad featuring Miki Fujimoto, delivering a message about supporting each other to overcome difficult situations.

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I want to keep smiling.ikimonogakari19rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “I Want to Keep Smiling” Music Video

A resolute will that simply keeps facing forward comes through and makes my heart swell.

Released in July 2011 as Ikimono-gakari’s 20th single, it was used as the commercial song for Nissan’s “New Nissan Serena.” It’s an up-tempo number that conveys a heartfelt wish to keep smiling even in difficult times, straight and true.

Even though it runs over six minutes, the grand arrangement by Seiji Kameda and the powerful vocals by Kiyoe Yoshioka blend so beautifully that it feels like it’s over in a flash.

The song won an Excellence Award at the 53rd Japan Record Awards and is also included on the album NEWTRAL.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling down or need energy for tomorrow.

The flowers are cherry blossoms; you are beautiful.ikimonogakari20rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Flowers Are Cherry Blossoms, You Are Beautiful” Music Video

A song brimming with quintessentially Japanese sentiment, intertwining cherry blossoms with feelings of love, has been born.

Released by Ikimono-gakari in January 2008, this work portrays the pure emotions of youth alongside the gentle scenery of spring.

Incorporating traditional Japanese expressions and courteous phrasing, it beautifully balances an old-fashioned flavor with a modern sensibility.

Based on the yonanuki scale, the melody leaves a striking impression with its rhythmic phrases.

It was also used in a commercial and reached No.

7 on the Oricon charts.

It’s a perfect song to listen to as spring arrives, especially recommended for those about to embark on a new chapter in life.

someoneikimonogakari21rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Someone” (Theme song for ‘A Song of Hope Woven by Newspapers’) | Original Movie

A gentle yet powerful vocal performance that resonates with the heart.

It features warm, hope-themed lyrics and a poppy, approachable melody.

The song carries a message of deep empathy and encouragement for people who, even while bearing loneliness and sorrow, strive to overcome them.

Released in October 2023 as the theme song for the “Weaving Hope Through Newspapers” campaign, it was accompanied by an original short film directed by filmmaker Takayuki Hosonuma, starring Hiroshi Tamura of Kirin and actress Kokona Sumi as a parent and child.

Also included on the album “Maru (○),” this is a perfect track for those looking to get through tough times or to lift someone’s spirits.