Popular J-Pop Ballad Song Rankings [2026]

Unfit to be a loverKoresawa85rank/position

Koresawa “Unqualified as a Lover” [Music Video]

A song that Koresawa self-covered after originally providing it to Miyuhan.

It was created as an answer song to Koresawa’s track “Tabako.” The lyrics portray the feelings of the protagonist’s lover from “Tabako.” When singing at karaoke, it’s great to perform both “Tabako” and this “Koibito Shikkaku”! Also pay attention to the lyrics that reveal the meaning behind the title “Koibito Shikkaku” (Disqualified as a Lover).

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SAKI

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Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi86rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Spirits of the Sea

The song “Umi no Yuurei” (Spirits of the Sea) by Kenshi Yonezu was written as the theme for the 2019 theatrical anime film Children of the Sea.

It came about through an offer from Yonezu, who had loved the original manga since childhood.

This ballad evokes the grandeur and mystery of the ocean and reached No.

1 on both the Oricon and Billboard charts.

The single’s cover features artwork by Daisuke Igarashi, the creator of Children of the Sea.

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Hamada Takuya

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tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa87rank/position

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

A singer-songwriter beloved for relatable, down-to-earth lyrics, Koresawa delivers a piercing song of regret.

The protagonist is portrayed desperately trying to recover the warmth of lost days from the small personal items their partner left behind.

The depictions of miscommunication—“If only I’d paid more attention to them,” “If only they had cared more about me”—will resonate painfully with anyone who has parted ways with a long-time partner.

Released in March 2017, this work is marked by its acoustic sound.

For those who feel their own shortcomings led to the breakup, this song may quietly sit with you and allow you to shed your tears.

The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell88rank/position

[Available until July 14, 2025] Bakemonogatari ED “The Story You Don’t Know” supercell Original Audio 4K High Quality Full AAC-LC – 320 kbps

This song is characterized by a gentle melody that tenderly resonates with listeners’ hearts.

Released in August 2009, it is also known as the ending theme for the anime Bakemonogatari.

The lyrics delicately portray the ache of unrequited love and the complex emotions of a love triangle, striking a chord with many listeners.

One of its charms is how the protagonist’s hidden feelings and loneliness are beautifully expressed through scenes of stargazing.

It’s a perfect track for those who have experienced heartbreak or who hold unspoken feelings of love.

Combined with supercell’s delicate vocals, it becomes a moving and deeply touching piece.

March 9Remioromen89rank/position

March 9th – Remioromen (Full)

Remioromen’s “March 9th” is a ballad perfectly suited for the milestone of graduation.

Originally written for a friend’s wedding, the song was later used as an insert track in the drama “1 Litre of Tears.” This led to a long-running hit, and it has since been sung as a chorus at many graduation ceremonies.

Its warm, heart-fluttering melody gently weaves together the hope and the feelings of farewell of young people setting out on a new journey.

The moving, unforgettable graduation melody spun by Remioromen will continue to be close to the hearts of many people.

Close your eyesHirai Ken90rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Close Your Eyes' MUSIC VIDEO

This is a song that resonates with the aching feeling of holding on forever to the memory of a beloved person you’ve lost.

It’s the 20th single by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai, known for his unique musical world, released in 2004 and written as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” It topped the year-end Oricon singles chart and became a massive hit, with total shipments exceeding one million copies.

It’s a ballad overflowing with the sorrow of only being able to meet that person in memories—when closing your eyes brings their smile to mind.

If you’ve experienced parting from someone dear, or if you want to quietly reflect on the past, please give it a listen.

Song for…HY91rank/position

Song for…

A gem of a ballad whose gentle piano melody and bittersweet vocals slowly bloom in your chest.

Based on the real experiences of HY’s keyboardist and vocalist Izumi Nakasone, it portrays a single-minded love that, despite a fateful encounter, runs up against the wall of age and keeps waiting in faith for a reunion.

Many listeners will likely feel their hearts tighten at this earnest devotion.

The song is included on HY’s album “TRUNK,” released in July 2004, which reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

On a summer evening, when a sudden loneliness washes over you, this warm melody is sure to echo softly in your heart.