Popular J-Pop Ballad Song Rankings [2026]

Is there still anything that love can do?RADWIMPS71rank/position

RADWIMPS – Is There Still Anything That Love Can Do? [Official Music Video]

A song by RADWIMPS about someone special to them.

It was written as the theme song for director Makoto Shinkai’s animated film Weathering with You, released in July 2019.

The lyrics, which beautifully capture the film’s worldview, and the enchanting ensemble woven by piano and strings leave a strong impression.

In true RADWIMPS fashion, the profound lyrical world explores philosophical themes that reexamine the power of love and the meaning of life.

This work is a moving ballad that reminds those of us living in modern society of the importance of loving.

I LOVE YOUOzaki Yutaka72rank/position

I LOVE YOU

A masterpiece among love ballads and one of Yutaka Ozaki’s signature songs.

Although it was released in 1983, it’s been used in commercials and covered by various artists, so many younger people know it as well.

Needless to say, this song is a tear-jerking, classic ballad, but it’s also highly recommended for men to sing at karaoke.

In addition to being in a comfortable key for the average male singer, the range from the lowest to the highest note isn’t very wide, making it a song you can sing pleasantly.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

SoranjiMrs. GREEN APPLE73rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「Soranji」Official Music Video

An emotionally stirring ballad that sings of the sanctity of life, driven by grand, heart-tugging strings.

As Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s 10th single, released in November 2022, this song was written as the theme for the film “From Siberia With Love.” The lyrics portray unwavering hope in the face of any hardship and a powerful devotion to a loved one.

Many listeners may find their tears welling up at its profound message.

It’s a track that, when you’re worn down by daily life or on the verge of losing heart, lights a warm glow within you and guides you toward tomorrow.

TRUE LOVEFujii Fumiya74rank/position

TRUE LOVE / Fumiya Fujii

A signature song by Fumiya Fujii released in 1993, this love ballad still shines in the J-pop scene.

It was released after The Checkers disbanded, as a solo work for which he wrote both the lyrics and the music himself.

Though the lyrics are simple and compact, they overflow with a straightforward devotion to the woman he loves.

With its slow-tempo ballad style and beautiful melody line, it should feel wonderfully comfortable to sing at karaoke.

It’s a piece that moves the heart even more when you sing it while thinking of someone special.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Because I fell in loveaimyon75rank/position

Aimyon “Because I Fell in Love” Studio Recording Scene

Starting in her middle school years, Aimyon began writing lyrics and has since released hit songs that capture many hearts.

Her ballad “Koi wo Shita Kara” is included on her 2019 album Momentary Sixth Sense.

Many women may find the lyrics relatable, as they portray the everyday scenes of a woman after a breakup.

Anyone who’s been so heartbroken that they couldn’t even eat will feel the pain all too well.

It’s a song where you can savor Aimyon’s choice of words together with gentle guitar sounds.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hito Sui

Report a problem

ALONEB’z76rank/position

B’z / ALONE

Under the twilight sky, standing alone while thinking of a loved one.

It conjures a poignant yet beautiful scene—an exquisite ballad that represents B’z.

The lyrics, which portray how time apart only deepens one’s feelings for the other, are truly heart-wrenching.

Released in October 1991, the song became a million-seller as the theme for the drama “Hotel Woman.” In live performances, Koshi Inaba’s piano-and-vocal rendition has become a legendary moment among fans.

Listen to it on a night spent alone, and it will gently keep your lonely heart company.

I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci77rank/position

wacci “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend” Music Video

A husky vocal line set against a slow-tempo ballad, emotive guitar tones, dynamic, ebb-and-flow drumming—this wacci smash hit is packed with highlights.

Its greatest charm lies in the lyrics that so many listeners relate to.

The theme—still hung up on an ex and unconsciously comparing him to a current boyfriend—sparked mixed reactions, but it was precisely the honest, straightforward expression of feeling that resonated with so many.

Released in November 2018, the song became a major topic on social media and catapulted wacci to fame.

It’s a moving track that’s perfect for anyone wrestling with complicated feelings of love.