Popular Birthday Songs [Japanese Music Ranking]

The Sunlit PathKobukuro57rank/position

Kobukuro – Sunlit Path

Kobukuro’s songs, filled with gentleness and warmth, are perfect for celebrating a child’s first birthday.

Characterized by arrangements that convey a sense of beat within a relaxed tempo, the beautiful harmonies of flute and clarinet resonate with the heart.

Released in June 2014, this piece was written as the theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “Black President.” Its lyrics convey the happiness found in everyday life and the importance of human connections, mirroring the feelings of guardians watching over their child’s growth and helping create a heartwarming first birthday celebration.

To the futureayaka58rank/position

Ayaka / To the Future Music Video

Many of you are probably already excited to see what kind of adults your children will become.

In that spirit, we recommend listening to “Mirai e” (“To the Future”).

This song was created by Ayaka as the theme for the “Docomo Mirai Museum” commercial.

It sings of children’s bright futures and a mother’s deep love.

With its gentle, slow-tempo ballad style, it could also be enjoyed as a lullaby.

Incidentally, Ayaka is said to have written the lyrics while recalling her own childbirth experience.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

Everyone’s Happy BirthdayAshida Mana59rank/position

Minna No Happy Birthday

This is a heartwarming song that cherishes connections between people and celebrates the preciousness of life.

As it introduces the twelve zodiac signs in order, it gently conveys that everyone has a day when they can be the star.

Filled with gratitude for family and an appreciation for the small joys of everyday life, it resonates with listeners.

Released in November 2011, the song was used as a theme and ending song for the anime series Jewelpet.

It’s perfect not only for birthday celebrations but also for expressing thanks to someone special.

Mana Ashida’s pure, clear voice enhances the song’s charm even further.

A melody instead of a bouquetShimizu Shota60rank/position

Shota Shimizu 'A Melody Instead of a Bouquet' MV (Full Size)

A perfect song to give to a lover or someone you care about on their birthday is “A Melody Instead of a Bouquet.” It was released in 2015 by Shota Shimizu, a singer active since the late 2000s.

The song features a classical melody that unfolds with a grand atmosphere.

Along with gentle, compassionate vocals, it conveys sincere feelings for a loved one.

It’s a heartwarming track that brightens the special day of someone more precious than anyone else.

Why not deliver the words you’re usually too shy to say by putting them into a song?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

Tears on My BirthdayHOUND DOG61rank/position

HOUND DOG: Tears of a Birthday

A ballad released in September 1982 by HOUND DOG, a rock band emblematic of the Showa era.

Its lyrics tell a heartrending story of breaking up with a lover on one’s 20th birthday, and Kohei Otomo’s powerful vocals make it a classic that resonates deeply.

The lyrics, expressing the fragility of youth and the pain of heartbreak, struck a chord with listeners.

The track fuses the band’s signature simple yet energetic rock sound with a distinctly Japanese kayō-rock sensibility.

It remains a live favorite and an indispensable song among fans.

A gem of a love song that speaks to the heart, it’s recommended for anyone who has experienced parting with someone precious or who feels nostalgic for their youth.

Door of LifeTakeuchi Mariya62rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – The Doors of Life (Official Music Video)

A song marked by a beautiful, soul-stirring melody and lyrics that reflect a profound outlook on life.

It also drew attention when it was chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “Katagoshi no Koibito” (Over the Shoulder Lover).

Its powerful message—affirming each stage of life from one’s 20s through the 50s and beyond, and declaring that life has value at any age—makes it perfect for celebrating longevity.

Mariya Takeuchi’s warm vocals blend exquisitely with the arrangement by her husband, Tatsuro Yamashita, offering heartfelt comfort to listeners.

It’s a heartwarming piece you’ll want to give with gratitude to someone special.

Happy BirthdayQ;indivi Starring Rin Oikawa63rank/position

Happy Birthday

This sparkling, radiant track is a happy tune that elevates the celebratory mood.

It’s a number released under the name Q;indivi Starring Rin Oikawa, with music producer Yusuke Tanaka leading Q;indivi and Rin Oikawa on vocals—her crystal-clear voice is absolutely lovely! The album Happy Celebration, which includes this song, was released in December 2010 and made waves by topping the dance chart even before its release.

Filled with pure feelings of celebrating someone special, this piece is a perfect BGM choice for a stylish birthday video.

Use it for a surprise for a friend, and they’re sure to love it.