Popular J-Pop Ballad Song Rankings [2026]

Secret of my heartKuraki Mai64rank/position

Mai Kuraki 'Secret of my heart'

This is her smash hit released in 2000, which drew attention to her looks and musical talent.

There was a time when she was compared to Hikaru Utada, but both are Japanese divas with their own unique worlds.

Her soft, beautiful voice captivated listeners.

Although this was her third single, it’s surprising that she was still in high school when she debuted.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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Hello/How are you?nanou65rank/position

[Hatsune Miku Soft] Hello/How Are You [Original]

In the early days of his career, Nanou had little knowledge of DTM, so he performed most of the instruments live.

“Hello/How Are You,” which became his first million-hit song, likely resonates with many listeners for its lyrics that depict the feeling of swallowing one’s true feelings and the things that really matter.

Although the melody is complex and it’s hard to ride the bouncy rhythm of the shuffle beat, the vocal range itself is narrow, so if you sing calmly, it’s an easy choice even for karaoke.

It’s a lyrical number that I hope you’ll tackle after firmly learning the flow of the song.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Dried flowersYuuri66rank/position

Yuri “Dry Flower” Official Music Video - Director’s Cut ver. -

A song where Yuri’s voice really sinks into your heart.

The lyrics gently weave together the sorrow of heartbreak and complex emotions, and they’re truly moving.

You can feel the regret after choosing to part ways and the lingering attachment to the other person.

Released as a digital-only single in October 2020, the track sparked a huge response on streaming platforms, surpassing 700 million plays—an unprecedented achievement for a solo artist.

Highly recommended for those struggling with work or relationships, or anyone looking to heal from the pain of a breakup.

The heartfelt lyrics and Yuri’s vocals are sure to bring you comfort.

1.15 Million Kilometers of FilmOfisharu Higedan Dism67rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – 1,150,000-Kilometer Film [Official Audio]

This piece sings of the resolve to keep filming one’s journey with a loved one, as if projecting life onto film.

It was included on Official HIGE DANDism’s 2018 album Escaparade.

The unique relationship of the two, likened to a film director and a leading actress, and the jazz-tinged, piano-driven sound paint the story with dramatic color.

In 2020, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Love Me, Love Me Not, and drew attention as a track that delicately captures everyday tremors and emotions.

It’s the perfect song for those who, when troubled by work or relationships, want to reexamine the time they share with someone precious.

The vow to keep filming for as long as life lasts brings tears to your eyes.

May it be filled with kindnessJUJU68rank/position

JUJU 'So That It Overflows with Kindness'

This is a rock ballad by JUJU released in 2009.

As the theme song for Nissan’s Cube commercial, it touched the hearts of many.

The lyrics express deep gratitude to the person who taught the singer the meaning of life at times when, amid unchanging days, she felt she might lose sight of what truly matters.

JUJU’s powerful yet delicate vocals convey a straightforward resolve to keep loving, even when apart.

It’s a timeless song that gently stays by your side when you want to renew your feelings for someone important or when you need a little warmth in your heart.

Unrequited loveAimer69rank/position

Aimer “Kataomoi” MUSIC VIDEO (FULL ver.)

A song by the female singer Aimer, whose impressive vocals and cool expressiveness have been attracting attention, especially among younger generations.

Featured on her fourth album “daydream,” which was produced under the concept of “breaking Aimer’s worldview” and created over the five years since her debut, this long-running hit has surpassed 100 million total streams, primarily through streaming platforms.

The lyrics depict scenes of walking through life with a beloved partner, delivering a message that resonates with couples envisioning their future.

With a soulful melody that colors the moments spent with a loved one, it’s a ballad you’ll want to keep listening to forever.

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Hoshino Takashi

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threadNakajima Miyuki70rank/position

thread

A classic song that likens encounters with loved ones and the workings of fate to the warp and weft used in silk weaving.

The irreplaceable bonds formed with those we meet eventually become a beautiful fabric that warmly envelops someone—this is the wonderful tale woven by Miyuki Nakajima in this gem of a track.

Its emotionally rich melody and lyrics that pierce the heart are in perfect harmony, gently embracing the listener.

Released in October 1992 on the album “EAST ASIA,” it returned to the spotlight in 1998 as the theme song for the drama “Seija no Kōshin” (March of the Saints).

Sparked by a cover by Bank Band, it has continued to be cherished as a wedding staple.

Why not etch it into your heart as a memorable song to color life’s milestones together with someone special?