Ranking of Tear-Jerking Japanese Songs [2026]

SparkleRADWIMPS50rank/position

Sparkle [original ver.] -Your Name. Music Video edition- Trailer from the new album “Ningen Kaika” First Press Limited Edition DVD

RADWIMPS is a rock band that captivates many listeners with their grand soundscapes.

Among their works, the one I’d recommend for emotional reels and stories is a piece created for a certain feature-length animated film.

It sings, with heart-wrenching melodies, of the fleeting brilliance of moments spent with a loved one within limited time, and of the poignant longing to reunite even when apart.

This song was included on the album “Your Name.” released in August 2016, and drew major attention as the track that colors the film’s climactic scenes.

Its dramatic progression—from a quiet piano motif to a sweeping full-band sound—makes it perfect for videos compiling memories with someone special, so be sure to check it out.

futureKobukuro51rank/position

Kobukuro “Mirai” film “orange” version

A heartwarming ballad dedicated to those who live life with all their might.

This gem of a song layers gentle compassion for others with wishes for the future.

Released in December 2015, it was written as the theme song for the film “orange” and was later used as a tie-in track for the anime series as well.

With Kobukuro’s signature powerful harmonies and a melody line that resonates deeply, this piece leaves a lasting impression.

Performed on a school festival stage, it will tenderly color the bonds with dear friends and the memories of student days.

Unrequited loveAimer52rank/position

Aimer “Catouomoi” MUSIC VIDEO

Aimer has a distinctive singing voice that captivates listeners.

No matter the song, her voice draws you in—and makes your heart ache.

That bittersweetness is a perfect match for Kataomoi.

The poignancy of her voice resonates with the poignancy of the lyrics.

If you have feelings you want to convey to someone, this song will surely touch your heart; at karaoke, some people might even be moved to tears.

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utatane

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One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS53rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

Released in August 2010 as the 14th single, this song was chosen as the cheer anthem for the 92nd National High School Baseball Championship.

Many of you will fondly remember Masahiro Tanaka appearing on the cover and in the music video.

The hopeful message—“If you can just hang on one more step, your dream will come true”—overlaps with the image of high school players striving toward their goals and resonates deeply when you hit a wall in work or life.

With a structure typical of Funky Monkeys, alternating rap and catchy melodies, it peaked at No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and remained on the charts for 47 weeks, becoming a long-running hit.

It’s a tear-jerking support song that we especially want those who are giving their all—or on the verge of giving up—to hear.

Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi54rank/position

[Official] Aoi Teshima – Letter to Tomorrow (Theme Song for the Monday 9 PM Drama ‘Someday I Will Surely Cry When I Remember This Love’)

Aoi Teshima, whose angelic singing voice gently soothes listeners’ hearts.

Just hearing her voice seems like it could ease the pain your struggling friend is feeling, doesn’t it? Among her songs, this one—featured as the ending theme for the drama “Love That Makes You Cry” starring Kasumi Arimura—is highly recommended! Like asking a friend who lives far away, “How have you been lately?” Send them this song and use a bit of casual conversation to cheer them up and help ease their worries.

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SAKI

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HeavenMrs. GREEN APPLE55rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Heaven” Official Music Video

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.

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE56rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE delivers a deeply personal song written the day after a graduation ceremony.

It’s a heartwarming track that carefully weaves together the transience of youth and the preciousness of everyday life.

Set to a subtly wistful melody, it portrays time spent with friends in high school, the sadness of parting, and the difficulty of being honest with one’s feelings—beautifully capturing the complex emotions of adolescence that everyone experiences.

Released to the world in February 2018 as the B-side to the single “Love me, Love you,” it was also featured in a commercial for Suntory’s Craft Boss.

Embracing all who cherish everyday life, this work gently rekindles memories you want to keep tucked away in your heart.

It’s sure to resonate not only with high school students in the midst of their youth, but also with anyone who nostalgically looks back on their school days.