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 Japanese Songs [2026] (31–40)
sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI31rank/position
This is a song by SEKAI NO OWARI whose lyrics, written from the perspective of someone watching over a dream-chaser up close, pierce straight to the heart.
It’s not just a cheer song; it portrays a deep love that sheds tears of joy precisely because it understands the pain and loneliness that accompany the process of taking on a challenge.
Released in February 2018, it was also chosen as NHK’s broadcast theme for the PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics.
It’s included on the album Lip as well.
Bearing the name of a flower that blooms powerfully despite the cold, this piece is sure to stand with everyone facing adversity.
It’s a moving song that gently warms the heart—one to hear when you’re striving desperately toward a goal, or when you’re quietly supporting someone else.
I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci32rank/position
A song that captures the complex feelings of a woman telling her ex that she’s found a new partner.
Her current boyfriend is mature, kind, and makes her feel safe, yet she can’t help but remember how naturally she could be herself around her ex—the song carefully portrays that inner conflict.
Written by wacci’s vocalist Yohei Hashiguchi after hearing a story from a female friend, the track was released digitally in 2018.
Its popularity spread by word of mouth, and by 2021 it had surpassed 100 million total streams.
Recommended for anyone who wants to treasure their current relationship but can’t quite let go of lingering feelings for an ex.
The happiest way to die in the worldkoka33rank/position
Even with its striking title, “The Happiest Way to Die in the World” is drawing attention.
It’s a ballad that sings about the idea that “if everyone hates you, perhaps it wouldn’t be sad even if you were to die.” Take a moment to reflect on that perspective yourself.
Another appeal is how the simple piano tone accentuates IA’s vocals.
With its very quiet melody, it’s also perfect as a companion for relaxation time.
wrinklebuzzG34rank/position
It’s a pure love song that looks back on a life walked together with someone precious.
It’s a track by buzzG, released in 2012.
The original version is included on the album “AMPLOID,” and a rearranged version appears on “THE WALL.” The emotional guitar sound blends beautifully with GUMI’s clear vocals.
And the lyric world—“wrinkles as proof of happiness that increase precisely because you spend so long with the one you love”—is enough to bring tears to your eyes.
It’s a song that will resonate deeply when you’re facing a turning point in life.
cold; curt; blunt; unfriendlyRADWIMPS35rank/position
This is an epic love song over six minutes long that delicately portrays the wavering emotions of an ambiguous romance.
The bittersweet feelings of being elated or dejected by a partner’s slightest gestures or words are expressed over a calm and beautiful melody.
Included on RADWIMPS’ album ANTI ANTI GENERATION, released in December 2018, the song was also used as the theme for ABEMA’s dating reality show Who Is the Wolf?, resonating strongly with younger audiences.
The music video features Nana Komatsu and Fuju Kamio, resulting in a striking visual piece that reflects contemporary views on love.
It’s a track best enjoyed when you can really take your time singing—whether during a solo karaoke session or at karaoke with close friends in a relaxed setting.
HarukaYOASOBI36rank/position
A moving work from YOASOBI—known for their gentle, warm vocals and story-rich songs—that poignantly depicts parting from a loved one.
From the unique perspective of a moon prince who has become a mug and watches over a girl through half her life, the song tenderly weaves themes of family and friendship bonds, the joy of growth, and the sorrow of farewell.
Released in December 2020, the piece was featured as the image song for “Art Aquarium Exhibition 2021: Hakata—Festival of Goldfish” and in a Takara Tomy commercial.
Its warm narrative carried by a simple melody will be there to comfort you when you want to look back on memories with your companions, or when you need courage before saying goodbye to someone important.
KanadeSukima Suichi37rank/position
This is one of Sukima Switch’s signature ballads, the kind you want to listen to when the season of farewells arrives.
Released as a single in March 2004, it’s also well known as an insert song for the film “Rough” and as the ending theme on the final day of the 2006 “Nettō Kōshien.” The lyrics, set to a wistful melody, portray parting with someone important while holding on to hope for the future.
Many listeners are surely moved by its message of a strong bond that keeps people connected through song even when they’re apart.
Featured on the album “Natsugumo Noise,” it has remained beloved and has been covered by many artists.
It’s a song perfect for spring, when life changes—whether you’re taking a new step forward or looking back nostalgically on your youth.
StoryAI38rank/position
A ballad that sings of the reassurance of having someone precious by your side and of an overflowing, profound love.
It’s a single released in May 2005 by AI, a singer-songwriter who captivates listeners with her husky, soulful voice.
The dramatic melody that begins with a piano intro gently wraps around the listener’s heart.
Also included on the album “Mic-a-holic Ai,” this beloved classic stayed on the charts for over 70 weeks after its release.
It’s also known as the Japanese ending theme for the Disney film Big Hero 6.
Carrying the message that you are not alone, this song is perfect for graduation-season memory videos that express gratitude to friends and mentors.
Be sure to give this warm, moving number a listen.
HeavenMrs. GREEN APPLE39rank/position
Released in May 2025 as the theme song for the film “I Will Tell You the Truth,” this track makes a striking impression with its structure: it shifts from a quietly sacred opening to an unpredictable development.
The lyrics gaze equally at the light and shadow, the beauty and ugliness inherent in humanity, hinting at a new depth in Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s expression.
The unusual promotion—available only within the film—also became a major topic on social media.
Different from their usual brightness, the layered, heart-wrenching melody is sure to resonate deeply with you.
planetariumOtsuka Ai40rank/position
A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.
Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.
Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.