Ranking of Moving/Japanese Pop Songs [2026]

StoryAI71rank/position

AI – Story

Singer-songwriter AI, born in Los Angeles, captivates audiences with a powerful voice honed through gospel.

The lead single from her May 2005 album “Mic-a-holic Ai” is known as an enduring masterpiece of a ballad that brought her name to widespread recognition.

Opening with beautiful piano tones, the song gently stays close to the listener’s heart and delivers a strong message that you are not alone.

Its outstanding lyrics spread into households through radio and other media, and in 2014 it drew renewed attention when it was selected as the Japanese ending theme for the film Big Hero 6.

It’s a defining song of the 2000s that helps us reaffirm our bonds with the people we cherish.

It’s nothing.makaroni enpitsu72rank/position

Macaroni Empitsu “It’s Nothing,” MV

A song by the four-piece rock band Macaroni Empitsu that portrays precious moments found in everyday life.

Released as a digital-only single in November 2021, it is also included on their major-label first album, “Hopes for a Happy Ending,” released in January 2022.

The lyrics warmly capture ordinary moments with a loved one, resonating with many listeners and reaching the top of the streaming charts.

Total streams have surpassed 300 million.

With its gentle, melodious sound that conveys comfort and warmth, the track has cemented its status as one of Macaroni Empitsu’s signature songs, winning an Excellence Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards in 2022.

It’s a recommended tune for anyone who wants to savor time with someone special.

Theory of the Mindful HeartRADWIMPS73rank/position

RADWIMPS – A Theory of Heart [Official Music Video]

This song intricately portrays the subtleties of deep human relationships.

Released by RADWIMPS in July 2006, it offers a unique perspective on themes like the bond between hearts and the dynamics of self and others.

Included on the album “RADWIMPS 4: Okazu no Gohan,” its powerful words resonate alongside a rock sound.

The music video is also striking: directed by Kanji Suto, it features an innovative technique where scenes from three minutes earlier unfold simultaneously.

The single reached No.

13 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and won an award from Space Shower TV.

It’s highly compelling as a live performance as well—on stage, the band’s energetic playing amplifies the song’s emotional impact.

As a track that stands by those struggling with relationships and trying to move forward, it continues to warm the hearts of many listeners.

Can I call it magic?Hirai Ken74rank/position

Ken Hirai “May I Call It Magic?” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

This song, with Ken Hirai’s voice resonating in the heart, portrays the small moments of everyday life as “magic.” Accompanied by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, it sings of the little moments that bring a smile to someone’s face and the strength to overcome sorrow together.

Released in June 2016, it was featured as the theme song for Panasonic’s digital single-lens camera commercial.

Despite its simple arrangement, the lyrics convey a deep sense of love and connection.

It’s a recommended track for when you want to reflect on days spent with someone special or when you’re in the mood for a moving ballad.

Let this song cleanse your heart.

apparent death; suspended animationryōryō75rank/position

RyoRyo, Hatsune Miku “Kashika” MV – Suspended Animation

When you’re feeling down, this song is sure to give you a pat on the back.

Released in 2022 by Ryoryo, also known under the name Luan, “Kasika” is a duet between Hatsune Miku and Ryoryo himself.

The dynamically unfolding arrangement and expansive choral work leave a strong impression.

As it approaches the end, your spirits lift, and you’ll feel like singing along.

With a song, everything will be okay—you’ll be able to keep moving forward.

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Araki Jakkan

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One more time, One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi76rank/position

Masayoshi Yamazaki – “One more time, One more chance” MUSIC VIDEO [4K Quality]

When it comes to Masayoshi Yamazaki, many people probably think of this song.

“One more time, One more chance,” released in 1997, is famous both as the theme song for the film “The Moon and a Cabbage,” in which Yamazaki himself starred, and later, in 2007, as the theme song for the animated film “5 Centimeters per Second.” From the very first guitar notes in the intro, it’s already brimming with tear-jerking elements, and the song’s theme—“the person you can never forget”—truly resonates.

If you’ve experienced heartbreak, it’s a song you can deeply relate to, one that will move you to tears.

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utatane

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fragrant oliveorenji supainikurabu77rank/position

ORANGE SPiCE CLUB 'Kinmokusei' Music Video

Some people may feel a sense of nostalgia in the scent of osmanthus.

This work by Orange Spiny Club is included on their first mini-album, “Whenever I’m Irritated,” released in January 2020.

It gained popularity on streaming platforms and TikTok, topping the Billboard JAPAN Heatseekers Songs chart for three consecutive weeks and generating buzz.

The song portrays scenes from youth, conveying the bittersweetness of young love and the smell of summer’s end.

Why not listen to this track and reminisce about the past?