Popular J-Pop Ballad Song Rankings [2026]

moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro8rank/position

Chihiro Onitsuka – Gekkou (Moonlight)

A timeless masterpiece that blends gentleness with fragility, like moonlight pouring down on a quiet night.

The lyrics, which gently accompany those bearing loneliness and despair, combined with Chihiro Onitsuka’s overwhelming vocal power, stir listeners to their core.

Released in March 2001, the song was also chosen as the theme for the TV drama “TRICK,” drawing major attention for its mysterious atmosphere.

When you’re feeling lost about yourself or life, or yearning for someone’s support, listening to it will fill you with a warmth that seeps into your heart.

This work remains one of Onitsuka’s signature songs, cherished by many to this day.

Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi9rank/position

Kazuyoshi Saito – Ballad of a Singer (2008 Ver.) [Music Video]

It’s a song that makes you want to sing while thinking of someone special on those long autumn nights when you somehow crave human warmth.

It’s one of singer-songwriter Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature tracks, depicting the love of a clumsy protagonist who can only convey his true feelings through song.

The lyrics, which carry straightforward emotions that are hard to say in everyday life, are beautiful and hit you right in the heart.

Released in November 1997 as his 15th single, the song is well-known for being covered by many artists and for being chosen as the theme song for the 2017 animated film Lu Over the Wall.

With the warm tones of the acoustic guitar and Saito’s gentle vocals resonating deeply, it’s also a great choice to sing with all your heart at karaoke.

HOWEVERGLAY10rank/position

GLAY / HOWEVER

With its poignant lyrics and beautiful melodic line that resonate deeply, this is one of GLAY’s signature songs.

Released in August 1997, it became the band’s first million-selling single and captured the hearts of many listeners.

It was also featured as the ending theme for the TBS drama “Ryakudatsu-ai: Abunai Onna,” which drew even more attention.

The lyrics, which sing of bonds with a loved one and the strength to move forward together by overcoming past experiences, offer comfort and courage to listeners.

It’s a moving song you’ll want to hear when you want to cherish time with someone important or when you’re standing at a crossroads in life.

planetariumOtsuka Ai11rank/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.

bow knotAimer12rank/position

Aimer “Chouchou Musubi” (produced and written by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS)

Aimer is a female singer who captivates listeners with a voice that conveys pride in her own sound and a resolute commitment to singing.

Her 11th single, “Butterfly Knot,” which was selected as the theme song for the information program Sukkiri!!, also drew attention for being produced and written by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS.

True to its title, the message that things only come together when both sides are present is deeply moving—whether you’re singing it or listening to it.

The melody and dynamics are challenging and require practice, but it’s a highly recommended karaoke number that we hope you’ll learn to sing.

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budKobukuro13rank/position

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

An emotionally moving song that gently sings of the sorrow of losing a mother and the hope for the future.

Its simple arrangement centered on acoustic guitar and a wistful yet warm melody resonates with many listeners.

Released by Kobukuro in March 2007, it was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.” Furthermore, in March 2008 it was selected as the entrance march for the opening ceremony of the 80th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, gaining nationwide recognition.

Embracing the feelings we have for family and loved ones, this piece is perfect for moments when your heart feels close to breaking or when you want to strongly remember someone.

366 daysHY14rank/position

HY – “366 Days” Live Music Video

A four-member mixture band HY, based in Okinawa and also known for producing a natural brand beyond music, delivers this song.

It’s a ballad included on their 5th album, HeartY.

The lyrics, born from Izumi Nakasone’s real-life experience, paired with a heartrending melody, evoke the genuine emotions one feels after a breakup.

Released in April 2008, it drew attention as the theme song for the film Red Thread.

With a straightforward message to someone unforgettable that tightens the heart, this representative HY song continues to be sung across generations.