Popular J-Pop Ballad Song Rankings [2026]

I want to hug you.Mr.Children15rank/position

Mr.Children “I Want to Hold You” Mr.Children [(an imitation) blood orange] Tour

A gemlike love ballad whose sweet, wistful feelings seep gently into the heart.

Created by Mr.Children in December 1992, the song is marked by its key changes—born from producer Takeshi Kobayashi’s idea—and the tender tone of the piano.

Infused with pure affection and devoted sentiment, its melody exudes a grown-up allure perfect for a late-night lounge.

It was featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “Pure” and used in NTT Docomo commercials, and has been covered by many artists, including Ryuichi Kawamura and Anri.

Its warmth, which seems to envelop deep feelings for a loved one, is part of its charm, and as a song that keeps close company on nights spent with someone special, it has been etched into the hearts of many.

EverythingMISIA16rank/position

MISIA – Everything （Official HD Music Video）

This is the seventh single by MISIA, an artist highly acclaimed in Japan and abroad for her five-octave vocal range and delicate expressiveness.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Yamato Nadeshiko,” it was released in October 2000.

The song drew major attention, including ranking first in JASRAC’s 2001 annual distribution of copyright royalties.

Its beautiful melody line and MISIA’s overwhelming vocal prowess blend magnificently, capturing listeners’ hearts and never letting go.

With lyrics brimming with love and a moving vocal performance, this grand ballad continues to inspire many people.

Goodbye, my beloved.Hana＊Hana17rank/position

Hana*Hana “Goodbye, My Beloved”

This song can be called a signature piece by Hana*Hana, one that straightforwardly expresses the sorrow of parting from someone dear.

It is said to be based on member Izumi Kojima’s memories, depicting her feelings for her grandfather who passed away when she was sixteen.

Centered on the piano, the sound emphasizes a sense of poignancy and sadness; as the strings gradually join, the sweeping development conveys an emotion that can no longer be contained.

With content that brings the magnitude of love and the magnitude of grief at the same time, the piece also conveys a strong resolve to keep cherishing those feelings even after the farewell.

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kappamaki

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balladKetsumeishi18rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

Ketsumeishi is known for having lots of bright songs with plenty of hip-hop and rap elements, but they actually have ballads too! With gentle melodies over piano and string-backed arrangements… this side of Ketsumeishi is really satisfying to listen to, and it looks cool to sing as well! The song runs close to seven minutes, so it’s on the longer side, but it’s highly recommended when you want something mellow.

Of course, there’s rap in it too, but the tempo is relaxed, so it’s easy to learn and easy to groove to.

It seems best to sing while moving your body in a big, open way.

The chorus is a real highlight, so if you sing each phrase carefully, you can really put your feelings into it.

There are spots where it slips lightly into falsetto, which adds a surge of poignancy.

The latter half of the chorus is a sweet spot for singing, so don’t hesitate—project your voice with confidence!

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Kubota Mami

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LemonYonezu Kenshi19rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

Since its release in 2018, this mid-tempo number has been a long-running hit that cemented Kenshi Yonezu’s popularity.

Though it’s a song that depicts deep sorrow with the theme of parting, it continues to captivate listeners’ hearts even now.

Yonezu’s slightly languid vocal style is distinctive; to bring out the mood, the trick is to connect notes smoothly rather than cutting clearly between them.

Try delivering this dramatic, well-known masterpiece with cool confidence.

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hiyori

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Because you are hereUru20rank/position

[Official] Uru “Because You Are Here” — Theme Song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘Ship of Theseus’

A gemlike ballad by Uru, whose heartwarming vocals and melody gently enfold feelings for a loved one.

Released in February 2020 as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Ship of Theseus,” the piece conveys a powerful desire to bring happiness to someone important and to protect them.

Even while carrying anxiety about tomorrow and regrets about the past, the song expresses gratitude for the constant presence that stays by one’s side, seeping into the heart with Uru’s clear, luminous voice.

It’s the perfect track to send to close friends or family when you want to say “thank you,” a sentiment that’s often hard to put into words.

A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru21rank/position

Hikaru Utada – A Bouquet for You

A ballad by Hikaru Utada that gently seeps into the heart with a sense of nostalgia.

The lyrics, filled with feelings of farewell and gratitude, and the tender melody woven by piano and strings, deeply move listeners.

Released digitally in April 2016, it drew attention as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Toto Nee-chan.” It is also said to reflect Utada’s feelings for her mother.

Perfect for those who have experienced parting from someone important or who want to express their gratitude.

It’s also a popular choice as background music for graduation ceremonies.