Japanese Pop Friendship Songs Ranking [2026]

RPGSEKAI NO OWARI8rank/position

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

It’s a grand piece that evokes images of the cosmos, the galaxy, and Earth.

Set to a dreamy, lyrical sound, it tells a highly narrative story about life as an epic adventure.

Released as a single in May 2013, it was also used as the theme song for the animated film Crayon Shin-chan: Very Tasty! B-Class Gourmet Survival!!.

In 2019, it was featured in a Toshiba TV commercial and is also included on the album Tree.

With messages of bonds with friends and strong resolve, it’s a recommended listen when you’re about to take a new step forward or want to enjoy it together with dear friends.

TwinsCHiCO with HoneyWorks9rank/position

Twins / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

A heartwarming song wrapped in a gentle melody that embraces the bond between best friends, expressing friendship in straightforward words.

It lovingly portrays the everyday moments between girls—chatting excitedly about romance, or sharing laughs even after tearful arguments.

Released in August 2017, this track was used as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime “PriPri Chi-chan!!”.

It’s a recommended song for conveying gratitude not only to your best friend, but also to a sister who feels like a best friend.

My friend — from here on out, forever…Ketsumeishi10rank/position

Ketsumeishi “My Friend ~ From Here On Forever…”

A sparkling, wistful, and beautiful song that seems to capture every irreplaceable moment with friends.

There are things only those who have laughed until they cried, overcoming hardships and sorrow together, can truly understand.

Summer, in particular, is a season when we create so many memories.

With a simple, beautiful melody and lovely lyrics sprinkled with thoughts of friends, this song brings back all kinds of memories just by listening.

Put it on and enjoy a summer full of laughter and tears.

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together; along with; bothWANIMA11rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A rock number packed with fiery messages that make you want to reaffirm your bonds with friends has arrived from Kumamoto.

Brimming with WANIMA’s forward-looking energy, the song also reflects their feelings about the earthquake that struck their hometown of Kumamoto.

Released in August 2016 as the CM song for NIVEA Kao’s “8×4,” this track powerfully sings of the courage to face hardship and the bonds with those we hold dear.

Well known as a staple at WANIMA’s live shows—where it sparks massive sing-alongs with the audience—it was also performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 2017.

This piece is a moving choice for occasions like graduation ceremonies and farewell parties, where friendships are renewed.

It’s the perfect song for farewells with friends, times of temporary separation, or moments when you want to look back on treasured memories with close companions.

Best FriendNishino Kana12rank/position

Kana Nishino “Best Friend” [Track on 15th Anniversary ‘ALL TIME BEST’]

A heartwarming number by Kana Nishino that conveys gratitude to a best friend in a straightforward way.

It really reminds you of the friend who’s always been on your side, no matter what.

Released as a single in February 2010, it’s also included on the album “to LOVE.” Since it was chosen as the official campaign song for DOCOMO’s “Ganbare Jukensei ’09–’10,” many people are sure to remember it.

Written with her own friends in mind, this piece is perfect as a message from the bride to her friends—or from friends to the bride.

It portrays an unchanging bond even when apart, making it a great recommendation for two people whose lives will change with marriage.

If you play it as background music for a performance or while reading a letter, it will surely wrap the entire venue in warm emotion.

DREAMShimizu Shota13rank/position

Shota Shimizu “DREAM” MV

It’s a rousing anthem that sings of the burning conviction that you can strive toward your dreams because you have friends who support your heart.

In tough times, you can’t help but picture the face of the friend who encouraged you by your side.

Set to a driving, exhilarating sound, this work portrays gratitude to those who matter and the strong bond that makes you feel you can do anything together; it was released as a single in January 2014 and was also used as the ending theme for the drama “The Mysterious Transfer Student.” The music video, which captured the real everyday lives of young people chasing their dreams, was also memorable.

It’s a heartwarming song that reaffirms the value of friendship and bonds—one you’ll want to dedicate to friends striving toward their goals.

StoryAI14rank/position

AI – Story

A memorable ballad featuring AI’s powerful yet gentle husky voice.

The moment the piano intro begins, you can imagine the entire venue being enveloped in a moving atmosphere.

It conveys a deep love and desire to support someone precious, and it’s a song that makes your heart swell every time you listen.

Released as a single in May 2005, it was a long-running hit that stayed on the charts for over 20 weeks.

It’s also well known for being used as the ending theme for the Japanese version of the film Big Hero 6.

This piece is popular for wedding performances and as BGM when the bride leaves the reception to change outfits.

Why not gift it to a friend who’s always been by your side, along with your heartfelt thanks?