Japanese Pop Friendship Songs Ranking [2026]

The Day I Became a JewelBUMP OF CHICKEN43rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “The Day It Became a Jewel”

It is included on the album “Butterflies,” released by BUMP OF CHICKEN in February 2016.

The song was also featured in a Calpis Water commercial.

With its refreshing arpeggio intro and uplifting chorus, it leaves a strong impression, and the lyrics, which depict everyday, ordinary moments turning into something special, resonate deeply.

It is a song that stands beside those who have experienced parting with someone important or who carry a sense of loss, affirming those emotions while giving them the strength to move forward.

Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi44rank/position

Elephant Kashimashi – “Our Tomorrow”

Elephant Kashimashi’s 34th single was also used as the commercial song for House Foods’ “Ukon no Chikara.” It’s a number that delivers the message—through Hiroji Miyamoto’s powerful vocals—that while work can be tough and trying, we’ll keep pushing forward.

Released in November 2007, the track feels like both a pep talk to someone and a reminder to oneself, making it a perfect song to give you a boost before heading to work.

It has been performed frequently at live shows and on television programs, continuing to offer hope and encouragement to many people.

We againSG45rank/position

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

This song conveys gratitude to a dear friend through a gentle, warm melody and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

With SG’s signature delicate expressiveness, it beautifully captures both the sorrow of parting and the anticipation of reunion.

The days of carefree laughter and the many memories shared together are portrayed with grace, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Released in April 2021, it became a massive hit—especially among younger audiences—garnering 150 million views.

Starting in November 2024, it was also featured in CalorieMate’s exam-season support commercial, earning praise for the strength of its message.

When you want to express thanks to cherished companions—at graduations, farewell parties, and more—why not send this one song?

Beloved daysyangusukinii46rank/position

Young Skinny – Oh, Beloved Days [Official Music Video]

It’s a song by Young Skinny themed around youth and friendship.

Its charm lies in the poetic depiction of growth, change, and how we face the past from a young person’s perspective.

Feelings you couldn’t understand before become clear to you now—haven’t we all had that experience? It’s included on their major-label first EP, “If We Could Find Happiness in Anything,” released in September 2023.

Listen to it with your friends, and it’s sure to deepen your bonds.

It’s also a perfect track for anyone looking to fire up the excitement at a sports day or school athletics festival.

BEST FRIENDGReeeeN47rank/position

Best Friend

A heartwarming number featured in the TV commercial song for Tokyo Individualized Educational Institute.

The lyrics, which speak to enduring friendship and the importance of companions who support each other even when apart, are sure to resonate with many.

The song, released in March 2013, was later included on the album “Iine! (´・ω・`)☆.” It was also used as a walk-up song by a professional baseball player.

This is a song you’ll want to listen to when parting from dear friends at times like graduation—a track that reaffirms an unchanging bond.

FriendHilcrhyme48rank/position

Hilcrhyme 'Tomo yo' Music Video

This song by the hip-hop duo Hilcrhyme—known for hits like “Shunkashūtō (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)”—was released in June 2011 as part of the single “no one.” It conveys a straightforward message to a friend who shared their youthful days, intertwining a touch of bittersweet nostalgia for the past with heartfelt warmth in wishing happiness for a companion stepping into the future.

It’s a theme anyone can relate to, making it a perfect piece to celebrate a loved one’s new beginning.

FriendKetsumeishi49rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Tomodachi”

This is a classic song by Ketsumeishi that wishes happiness for a friend leaving their hometown to pursue dreams and goals.

Parting with friends you’ve grown up with is lonely, but supporting those who choose their own path is an important role too.

Even if you live far apart, friendship doesn’t change, and you can always rely on each other when needed.

As it looks back on many shared memories, this song reaffirms that unshakable bond.

Released as a single in February 2002, the track is also included on the landmark album “Ketsuno-Police 2” and was used as the ending theme for the TV program “JAPAN COUNTDOWN.”