Popular Birthday Songs [Japanese Music Ranking]

rainbow-coloredayaka36rank/position

Ayaka / Nijiiro Music Video

With its warm, soothing melody and powerful vocals, this song gently wraps a hope-filled moment, like welcoming a new life into the world.

Released as Ayaka’s single in June 2014, it was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Hanako to Anne.

Depicting the story of a life that everyone walks, the process by which each step shapes who we are, and the hope we hold for the future, the track’s acoustic guitar-centered warmth closely accompanies the listener’s heart.

It’s the kind of song that inspires you to face forward and walk in your own way at life’s new beginnings—such as weddings or the birth of a child.

Untitled TodayHirai Dai37rank/position

Hirai Dai / Untitled Today (Lyric Video)

This is a heartwarming song by Dai Hirai that finds value in everyday life and proclaims that an ordinary day is the true masterpiece of life.

Released in January 2021, the track is included on the album “Life Goes On,” and features a memorable blend of gospel-style chorus and gentle melody.

The lyrics emphasize cherishing small, everyday joys over chasing ideals, highlight the importance of sharing happiness with others, and carry a hopeful message about believing in the future even in difficult times.

It’s a perfect song to sing with warm feelings for someone special on their birthday, or when you want to express a positive outlook for the year ahead.

BIRTHDAYkururi38rank/position

Quruli – BIRTHDAY

A masterpiece born in the Heisei era, this is a track that adds a festive touch to any birthday.

Created by Quruli under the influence of The Who and The Beatles, it was released in February 2005.

Its sound evokes 1960s rock, paired with Shigeru Kishida’s delicate lyrics.

The distinctive bass and the mid-song chorus leave a strong impression, and it’s said to be one of the more technically demanding songs in Quruli’s catalog.

The promotional video features actress Mikako Ichikawa, making it visually enjoyable as well.

Play this song at a birthday party or on a special anniversary with someone important, and it’s sure to create wonderful memories.

I walked home across the birthday cake.Chatmonchy39rank/position

Chatmonchy “I Walked Home Across a Birthday Cake” Music Video

For a birthday, a day when everyone feels something special, the perfect song to add a touch of emotion is Chatmonchy’s “I Walked Home Across the Birthday Cake.” Its melody blends overflowing joy with a hint of bittersweetness, resonating with many listeners.

The lyrics carry a gentle, heartwarming message alongside hope for growing older, making it an ideal birthday song to give to a friend or a lover.

Each listen delivers a melody that echoes deeply in the heart, beautifully coloring memories of a special birthday.

This song, which tenderly makes you feel love with each passing year, is also perfect for honestly conveying your feelings to someone important.

Thank youikimonogakari40rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

A moving song filled with a heartwarming message.

Released on May 5, 2010, it was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Gegege no Nyobo.” Packed with Ikimono-gakari’s charm, the piece is characterized by lyrics and a melody that express gratitude.

Boosted by its synergy with the drama, it reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart.

The lyrics, imbued with thankfulness, also resonate as a message you might want to send to someone special on their birthday.

It could be nice to gift this song for a birthday or anniversary and use it to convey feelings that are hard to say out loud.

BatonKobukuro41rank/position

Kobukuro “Baton” Image Movie

Kobukuro’s “Baton” is a song that beautifully portrays the connection of life.

Its warm melody and heartfelt lyrics make it perfect for celebrating a child turning one.

The line “Someday, you too will have a time to pass it on to someone” conveys a love that flows from parent to child and into the future.

Released in April 2018, the song was also used in an Ono Pharmaceutical commercial.

Playing it as background music at a birthday party or in a video can make this important first milestone even more memorable.

Why not listen together as a family and let your thoughts turn to the future ahead?

A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru42rank/position

Hikaru Utada – A Bouquet for You

This song was used as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Toto Nee-chan,” marking Hikaru Utada’s return to activity in April 2016.

It’s said that she wrote it for her mother, but given the title “Hanataba wo Kimi ni” (A Bouquet for You), it also makes a great birthday song.

Feelings of gratitude that words alone can’t express are conveyed through its gentle, warm melody.

A birthday is not only a time for celebration, but also a perfect opportunity to say “Thank you for being born.” By layering the feelings you’re usually too shy to say onto this song, you can create an unforgettable, moving moment.

It’s a heartwarming ballad that helps you reaffirm the bond with someone special.