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 Tear-Jerking J-Pop Songs [2026] (41–50)
The summer you gave meieiri reo50rank/position
When it comes to summer songs by Leo Ieiri, who is well-known for her ballads, “Kimi ga Kureta Natsu” stands out.
The lyrics, depicting the feelings of a man parting from the one he loves, are sure to resonate with many.
The song is also known as the theme for the 2015 drama “Koinaka.” Listening to it may remind many of the drama’s heartrending story.
In addition, the music video, in which Leo Ieiri sings on a bench at night, deepens the poignant mood.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to on a summer night.
Japanese Ballads That Make You Cry Ranking [2026] (51–60)
Endless JourneyMr.Children51rank/position
This is one of Mr.
Children’s signature works, featuring impressive lyrics that depict the journey of life and a grand, sweeping sound.
Its universal messages—about the importance of moving forward, the courage to face hardship, and the quest to find your ideal self—resonate deeply.
Released in October 1998 and used as the theme song for the TV drama “Naguru Onna,” it became one of their defining tracks.
It’s a song that will surely support those who keep striving toward their dreams and goals, as well as those standing at a crossroads or searching for themselves.
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE52rank/position
This is a poignant song that delicately expresses feelings hidden deep in the heart.
Released in January 2025 as the theme song for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.
GREEN APPLE 18 Festival,” it centers on the importance of staying true to yourself.
While carrying loneliness and anxiety, it conveys gratitude toward those who accept you as you are, resulting in a track that deeply resonates with the emotions of younger generations who grapple with inner pain and conflict.
With an emotive melody that epitomizes Mrs.
GREEN APPLE and a powerful, heart-stirring message, this work is sure to support anyone who seeks to face themselves and move forward.
futureKobukuro53rank/position
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 loveAimer54rank/position
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.
Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi55rank/position
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.
One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS56rank/position
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.