Ranking of Tear-Jerking Japanese Songs [2026]

HarukaYOASOBI36rank/position

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

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.

cold; curt; blunt; unfriendlyRADWIMPS37rank/position

RADWIMPS – Aloof [Official Music Video]

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.

KanadeSukima Suichi38rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

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.

StoryAI39rank/position

AI – Story

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.

planetariumOtsuka Ai40rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

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.

far; distant; by farGReeeeN41rank/position

GReeeeN – Haruka

I’d like to introduce a moving ballad where the loneliness of leaving home intertwines with a strong will to pursue one’s dreams.

This work by GReeeeN expresses gratitude to the parents who raised us, and every listen warms the heart by reminding us of family love.

Released in May 2009 as their 11th single, it’s also famous as the theme song for the blockbuster film “ROOKIES: Graduation.” By setting aside the rap parts to let the vocals take center stage, the song resonates deeply.

It’s perfect not only for students about to leave home, but also for adults who’ve long been out in society and want to recall their original resolve.

Highly recommended as background music for graduation season or for videos expressing thanks to someone special.

SoranjiMrs. GREEN APPLE42rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「Soranji」Official Music Video

Is there any other song that sings of the preciousness of life with such tenderness and strength? Released in November 2022 as Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s first single in about three and a half years, this piece was written as the theme song for the film “From Siberia With Love,” starring Kazunari Ninomiya and Keiko Kitagawa.

In step with a story that upholds love for family against the harsh backdrop of a Siberian labor camp, the lyrics—like reciting by heart one’s feelings for a beloved—etch themselves into the soul.

Its grand arrangement featuring strings wraps unspoken everyday emotions and hope for tomorrow into a sweeping ballad.

It’s a song that gently stays by the side of anyone choosing to believe in the future, no matter how difficult the days may be.