Ranking of Tear-Jerking Japanese Songs [2026]
We’re introducing the latest top 100 ranking of tear-jerking Japanese songs, all at once, ordered by most views!
When you feel like crying, it’s okay to cry.
It helps you relieve stress and switch gears.
This collection is meant to let you release those pent-up feelings.
The playlist is updated weekly.
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Ranking of Tearjerker J-Pop Songs [2026] (1–10)
CHARMWANIMA8rank/position
A song by WANIMA characterized by a powerful punk-rock sound and an uplifting message.
Included on their major-label first album “Everybody!!,” released in January 2018, it was also used in commercials for Kikkoman and “Juken ni in Jelly.” The lyrics convey a sense of connection that transcends the bond and distance between the band and their fans.
Teaching the importance of believing in yourself and continuing to have the courage to move forward even in difficult times, this track is recommended for those who want to reaffirm friendship and bonds.
CorrectRADWIMPS9rank/position
A gem-like ballad by RADWIMPS that stands beside everyone at a crossroads in life.
There are no ready-made answers like on a school test; the path you choose for yourself is what’s truly precious—a warm yet powerful message that strikes straight to the heart.
Its moving arrangement, layered with a student chorus, is guaranteed to bring listeners to tears.
Originally performed with 1,000 young people at NHK’s “RADWIMPS 18 Festival” in 2018, it garnered a huge response.
The long-awaited studio recording was released in January 2024.
Perfect for graduation and seasons of departure, this work also resonates deeply with adults who carry doubts.
May it give you the courage to find the answer that belongs only to you.
balladKetsumeishi10rank/position
This work by Ketsumeishi gently embraces listeners with a melody overflowing with songcraft, keeping the rapping to a minimum.
It’s their 24th single, released in January 2011, and it became widely familiar as the theme song for Nippon TV’s information program “Sukkiri!!”.
Sung over a quiet arrangement woven from piano and strings, the lyrics convey the pain of unrequited love and a yearning for a beloved that refuses to fade.
Even an adult man who usually keeps his emotions under wraps may find the long-suppressed ache welling up when he hears this song, perhaps even moved to tears.
It’s a touching adult love ballad that makes you want to listen alone, quietly, on a sleepless night.
Ranking of Tearjerker Japanese Songs [2026] (11–20)
Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi11rank/position
A J-pop number by Kenshi Yonezu that delicately portrays the subtleties of a heart that can’t be honest.
His vocals, filled with tenderness and longing for a precious presence right before you, blend with the clear resonance of an acoustic guitar to deeply touch the heart.
You want to express your feelings, yet can’t quite weave the right words.
Those fragile emotions meld with a beautiful melody infused with elements of alternative rock.
Chosen as the CM song for Tokyo Metro’s 2014 advertising campaign “Color your days.” and included on the album YANKEE, this piece closely resonates with anyone who struggles to speak their true feelings or wishes to express love for their family.
About meMrs. GREEN APPLE12rank/position
An epic ballad that sings of both the beauty and harshness of life, stirring the hearts of its listeners.
This work by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE is their eighth single, released in January 2019, and was created as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
The lyrics focus not only on the winners but also on those who lose, reflecting vocalist Motoki Omori’s wish that “life be one in which even your defeats can be affirmed.” In 2023, an orchestral version was featured in a Calorie Mate commercial, encouraging many students preparing for exams.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear especially when you’re struggling through difficult days and feel like stopping.
At the milestone of graduation, it may give you the chance to fully accept the person you’ve been up to now.
Hello/How are you?nanou13rank/position
This is a song that reaches out to those who can’t put the feelings deep in their hearts into words.
Created by Nanou, it was released in November 2010.
Within its slow tempo are woven the loneliness, anxiety, and quiet cries we feel in everyday life.
Miku’s clear, translucent voice gently wraps around the listener’s heart.
It might hit especially hard when you’re carrying worries you can’t share with anyone.
PrologueUru14rank/position
This song, known for its heartfelt vocals and delicate lyrics, was released in December 2018 as Uru’s seventh single.
Chosen as the theme song for TBS’s Tuesday drama “Chugakusei Nikki” (Junior High School Diary), it touched the hearts of many.
Centered on the diverse forms of love and complex emotions, Uru herself was involved in its production.
Aiming to create a piece that gently accompanies the story with a sense of longing and tenderness, this work is truly a moving, tear-jerking song.
It resonates when you reflect on your relationship with someone important or with yourself.
It’s a perfect track for those who want to create a touching, tear-jerking video on Instagram Reels.