Ranking of Tear-Jerking Japanese Songs [2026]

OrangeSPYAIR92rank/position

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)

This is a heartwarming song that celebrates the fleeting nature of youth and the importance of friendship.

Its melody, symbolizing bittersweet memories, and lyrics woven with a gentle yet powerful message evoke farewells and new encounters with cherished friends.

The track is included on SPYAIR’s EP released in February 2024 and was selected as the theme song for the film Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle.

Capturing the hearts of many listeners, it ranked 8th on the streaming chart published on February 28.

The limited-time production edition also features a jacket with newly drawn artwork from the movie.

It’s a perfect song to listen to with dear friends during the season of graduation and partings.

Just Be FriendsDixie Flatline93rank/position

[Megurine Luka] Just Be Friends [Original PV]

Feelings that once were so full of love, yet somehow drifted apart before we knew it.

The reality that we have no choice but to part ways.

A heartbreak song by Dixie Flatline, this popular track was released in 2009.

Its light, airy sound contrasts with lyrics so poignant they squeeze the depths of your heart.

Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi94rank/position

Elephant Kashimashi – “Our Tomorrow”

This is one of Elephant Kashimashi’s signature songs, celebrating the courage and hope to face life’s hardships.

Hiroji Miyamoto’s powerful vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which highlight the importance of friendship and bonds and a forward-looking attitude toward the future, have struck a chord with many people.

Released in November 2007, it was also used in a commercial for House Foods’ “Ukon no Chikara.” Strong yet gently supportive, this track is perfect for times when you’re struggling with work or relationships, or when you want to rally yourself.

1.15 Million Kilometers of FilmOfisharu Higedan Dism95rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – 1,150,000-Kilometer Film [Official Audio]

This piece sings of the resolve to keep filming one’s journey with a loved one, as if projecting life onto film.

It was included on Official HIGE DANDism’s 2018 album Escaparade.

The unique relationship of the two, likened to a film director and a leading actress, and the jazz-tinged, piano-driven sound paint the story with dramatic color.

In 2020, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Love Me, Love Me Not, and drew attention as a track that delicately captures everyday tremors and emotions.

It’s the perfect song for those who, when troubled by work or relationships, want to reexamine the time they share with someone precious.

The vow to keep filming for as long as life lasts brings tears to your eyes.

made-to-orderKasamura Tōta96rank/position

Tailor-Made / feat. VOCALOIDs

Order-Made resounds with a grand choral work sung by numerous Vocaloids.

Created in 2022 by Vocaloid producer Tota Kasamura, who captivates listeners with songs that depict delicate hearts, it conveys a heartwarming message that gently accompanies feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

You can sense kindness and compassion in the vocals that make the most of each Vocaloid’s unique character.

Alongside a dynamically unfolding band performance, the melody expands richly and resonates throughout the piece.

Be sure to listen to this ballad that offers hints for living with a smile tomorrow.

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Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai97rank/position

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

A ballad perfect for graduation season has arrived from Dai Hirai.

The gentle sounds of piano and strings resonate deep in the heart.

Set on the way home in March, it beautifully portrays memories of youth and feelings toward a new departure.

Wrapped in a nostalgic atmosphere, it sings of the complex emotions where loneliness and anticipation intersect.

Released as a digital single in February 2022, the song is also included on the album “HOPE / WISH.” It’s ideal not only as BGM for graduation ceremonies, but also for those embarking on a new chapter or reminiscing about their youth.

Let this warm voice surround you as you look back on your cherished memories.

Velvet Poemback number98rank/position

Velvet Poem

There is a gemlike ballad by back number—known for lyrics and melodies that shake the heart—created as the theme song for the film Akira and Akira.

Shimizu Iyori’s voice, singing like a prayer and wishing that his laid-bare self could be seen as something beautiful, sinks deep into the chest.

The piece quietly yet powerfully seems to cheer on those who, despite their anguish and inner conflicts, keep moving toward their goals.

This moving song was released in August 2022 and was later included on the acclaimed album Humor.

Premiering alongside the film, it became beloved by many, debuting at No.

2 on the Billboard Japan Download Songs chart—a sign that its impact has resonated widely.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you’re wavering over a major life decision or need a gentle word of encouragement.

It will surely echo deep within your heart and give you the strength to take a step toward tomorrow.