Ranking of Moving/Japanese Pop Songs [2026]

lovesicknessAimer15rank/position

Aimer “Koiwazurai” Studio Live Rehearsal (new albums ‘Sun Dance’ and ‘Penny Rain’ now on sale) FULL

Singer-songwriter Aimer, whose voice is brimming with individuality and utterly captivating.

When you listen to this song, you can’t help but be moved by the richness of her expressiveness! She masterfully navigates a piece that plays not only with dynamics but also with tempo, adding ebb and flow to the rhythm, and before you know it, you’re carried along at her pace.

In the midst of that, the message woven into the lyrics is deeply moving, and it makes you feel, “This is okay just as it is!” If you’re struggling with love, I highly recommend giving it a listen.

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Hane Keisuke

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Spot the differenceSuda Masaki16rank/position

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

This song, which Kenshi Yonezu wrote specifically for Masaki Suda, tells the story of a protagonist who once felt like a mistake but discovers the meaning of life through meeting an irreplaceable person.

The powerful message resonates: it doesn’t matter whether something is right or wrong—what matters is that I met you.

Released digitally in May 2019, it became etched in many hearts as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World.” It’s a song that gently stays by your side on days when your self-esteem wavers or when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone important.

Masaki Suda’s rich, resonant voice delivers each word with care.

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS17rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

“Arigatou,” released under the name FUNKY MONKEY BABYS and also highly popular as a graduation song, was the last single they issued before becoming FUNKY MONKEY BABY’S.

This single, released in 2013, features Sanma Akashiya on the cover.

It’s a song that lets you express gratitude to all the people who supported you through six years of elementary school—family who helped you so much, teachers who taught you many things, and friends with whom you made countless memories.

Listening to or singing it while looking back on those memories will surely move you to tears.

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SAKI

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threadNakajima Miyuki18rank/position

thread

A richly narrative song that gently sings of the meaning of life and the mystery of fate.

The melody woven by Miyuki Nakajima and the lyrics that compare human encounters to a tapestry deeply resonate with listeners.

Released in October 1992 as a track on the album “EAST ASIA,” the song drew renewed attention when it was covered by Bank Band in 2004, and it won the JASRAC Gold Award in both 2016 and 2017.

In 1998, it was used as the theme song for the drama “Seija no Koushin” (March of the Saints), further expanding its reach.

The warm vocals and gentle acoustic guitar tones soothe weary hearts and give strength for tomorrow.

As a song that accompanies weddings and the making of cherished memories with loved ones, it continues to be beloved by many to this day.

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa19rank/position

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

Released in March 2017, this song was put out as Koresawa’s final single before her major-label debut—a poignant ballad about heartbreak.

The scene where the narrator picks up something left behind by an ex they supposedly hated, only to choke on its lingering scent, conveys the pain of regret over a lost relationship.

The lyrics interweave the remorse of not having paid enough attention to the other person with the longing to have been seen more themselves, vividly reflecting the anguish of a breakup brought on by clumsy expressions of love.

Set against a simple acoustic sound, Koresawa’s vocals gently soak into the heart, carrying the weight of feelings that couldn’t be put into words.

Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK20rank/position

ONE OK ROCK: Wasted Nights [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

A song written as the theme for the film “Kingdom,” released in April 2019, that became a huge talking point.

The grand sound that weaves in dynamic shifts, paired with Taka’s soaring, ever-reaching vocals, is insanely cool! It carries a powerful message: “Live this very moment to the fullest so you won’t have regrets,” and listening to it fills you with courage from deep within.

Its melodious, accessible style makes it a great recommendation for people discovering their music for the first time.

It’s a masterpiece you’ll want to make your personal anthem for life.

366 daysHY21rank/position

HY – 366 Days (Official Music Video)

Based on letters from HY’s fans, this song beautifully captures the pain of parting and the bittersweet feeling of continuing to love.

The lyrics, drawn from member Izumi Nakasone’s personal experiences, are full of realism and resonate deeply with listeners.

Included on the album “HeartY,” released in April 2008, it garnered major media attention, serving as the theme song for the drama and film “Akai Ito” (Red Thread).

It’s a standout ballad recommended not only for those who can relate to the sorrow of heartbreak, but also for anyone who wants to feel the depth of pure love.